Twenty Irish sailors are heading to Lake Garda for the Fireball World Championship, marking the largest Irish turnout in years. Hosted by Circolo Vela Arco at the lake’s northern end, the event kicks off with measurement and practice from Thursday, followed by racing from Sunday 24th to Friday 29th, with Wednesday as a reserve day.
This surge in participation reflects renewed interest in the Fireball class, both in Ireland and abroad. Transport challenges post-pandemic have led teams to use double and triple stacker trailers. The iconic venue—with reliable sunshine and winds—along with discounted entry for young sailors, has helped attract a fleet of 135 boats.
Irish sailors will be hoping for the famous Ora winds to kick in and give them lively conditions with racing starting around lunchtime. If the Ora doesn't materialise due to duller conditions sailing will take place earlier in the day with the morning Peler winds. Either way, the fleet will be chasing pressure along the cliffs, with a long start line and multiple committee boats expected to manage the crowd—U and black flags likely.
Top Irish contenders include Chris Bateman & Lucy Loughman, current B14 World Champions, especially strong in heavy air. Also watch Josh Porter & Cara McDowell, consistent across conditions, and rising stars Daniel & Harry Thompson. Ewen Barry, sailing with daughter Thea, could shine in lighter winds. Conor Twohig & Matthew Cotter showed strong form at the Nationals, while Alan Blay & Hugh McNally and Adrian Lee & Ossian Geraghty bring depth and experience.
Ed Og Butler & Iso Inan (who could be considered dark horses) could surprise if they find form quickly. Newcomers Bella Waterman & Sean O’Herlihy and veterans Frank Miller & Ed Butler Snr round out the Irish fleet.
This Worlds will also showcase the new Fireball design by Windermark—a collaboration between Winder and Weathermark—featuring a cleaner layout, carbon construction, and twin poles. These innovations, enabled by recent rule changes, will be closely watched for performance gains. The design refresh has also boosted second-hand availability, helping grow fleets in Ireland, Italy, and beyond.
With strong international competition and a revitalized Irish fleet, this year’s Worlds promises to be one of the most exciting in recent memory.