It wasn’t to be for Headcase this time at the World Sailing Awards on Wednesday 5 November in Dun Laoghaire as they lost out to Emirates Team New Zealand, current holders of the America’s Cup and one of the most resourced teams in the sport. But Headcase’s nomination marked a triumph of heart, teamwork, and determination.
Emirates Team New Zealand, backed by major corporate sponsorships and national funding, represent the pinnacle of professional sailing. In contrast, Headcase’s campaign is self-managed, self-funded, and fuelled by a shared love of sailing, a true David and Goliath story on the world stage.
While the trophy may have gone to Emirates Team New Zealand, the hearts of sailors everywhere were captured by five determined Irish sailors and their underdog spirit. So, from Irish Sailing, a huge well done to Cillian Dickson of Lough Ree Yacht Club, Ryan Glynn of Ballyholme Yacht Club, Sam O’Byrne of Howth Yacht Club, and Louis Molloy and Marcus Ryan of Mayo Sailing Club.
If you missed some of the media Headcase did during the week you can catch up here:
Headcase - the 5 amateur Irish sailors winning awards | Oliver Callan - RTÉ Radio 1
Amateur Irish sailors who gave New Zealand’s America’s Cup champions a run for their money
You can read the full rundown of the World Sailing Awards which took place in the Royal St George Yacht Club in Dun Loaghaire as part of the World Sailing Conference here - World Sailing - Offshore sailors Justine Mettraux and Charlie Dalin named 2025 Rolex World Sailors of the Year