Strong Irish Line-Up for Kieler Woche 2025
Ireland will field a competitive squad at Kieler Woche 2025, one of the five newly designated Sailing Grand Slam events. The regatta, set to take place from 21–29 June in Kiel, Germany, is a key fixture on the international sailing calendar. Among those representing Ireland are Olympians Finn Lynch, Robert Dickson, Sean Waddilove, and Eve McMahon.
Eve McMahon (Howth Yacht Club) enters the event as World No. 1 in the ILCA 6 class, following the latest World Sailing rankings and her recent bronze medal at the World Championships in Qingdao, China—a major confidence boost ahead of the competition.
In the 49er class, Robert Dickson and Sean Waddilove (Howth YC & Skerries SC) arrive in Kiel ranked World No. 4, solidifying their status as consistent podium contenders on the global stage.
Two-time Olympian Finn Lynch returns to action following his bronze medal at the first Grand Slam event of the season. He is joined by teammate Ewan McMahon, who secured a personal best 10th-place finish at the second Grand Slam in Hyères.
Joining the senior squad for their international debut are Ben O’Shaughnessy and Ethan Spain (Royal Cork YC & National YC), former 29er European Champions. As Ireland’s newest 49er pairing, they will use Kieler Woche to begin their campaign toward LA 2028 and Brisbane 2032.
Also representing Ireland in Kiel are Erin McIlwaine and Ellen Barbour (RSGYC & Newcastle YC), Ireland’s leading 49erFX crew, who are competing at this regatta for the second time.
“Kieler Woche is a true test of skill, stamina, and strategy,” said Rory Fitzpatrick, Irish Sailing’s Technical Director. “It offers invaluable experience for our development sailors while serving as a critical performance marker for our senior team ahead of key summer targets, including the 49er World Championships and the ILCA European Championships.”
One of the world’s largest sailing festivals, Kieler Woche annually draws more than three million visitors. As part of the Sailing Grand Slam series, the event is a cornerstone of a new international circuit that features four elite European regattas and one event in the waters that will host the sailing competition at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.
For live updates and results throughout the week, follow @IrishSailing on social media and visit www.sailing.ie.
Irish Squad for Kieler Woche 2025:
ILCA 7
ILCA 6
49ER
49ER FX
ILCA 6 (Open)