Irish Sailing is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Patrick (Paddy) O’Neill, former President of the Irish Sailing Association, who died peacefully on 9 March 2026 at Beaumont Hospital after a short illness.
Paddy was a widely respected and much-loved figure within the Irish sailing community, whose lifelong dedication to the sport left a lasting impact on sailing in our country. In 1988, he became the first member of the Malahide Yacht Club to be elected President of the Irish Sailing Association, a role in which he served with distinction for an unprecedented five-year term. During his presidency he helmed the important transition of the national authority’s name from the Irish Yachting Association to the Irish Sailing Association, reflecting a broader and more inclusive vision for the sport in Ireland. He also played a significant role in coordinating Ireland’s gold medal success in the Southern Cross Series, part of the World Offshore Championship, which was a milestone achievement for Irish offshore sailing that remains a proud chapter in the sport’s history.
Paddy’s sailing life began in Skerries in the late 1940s, and his connection with the sea remained central to his life ever since. After seven years sailing, he joined Clontarf Yachting and Boating Club, where he raced Hornet dinghies with his wife Marie as crew. Together they achieved considerable success, winning national championships on a number of occasions and becoming regular competitors at the Whit Regattas in Malahide.
In 1973 they joined Malahide Yacht Club, sailing their Enterprise dinghy Easy Rider with great success. Within a year of joining the club, Paddy was elected to the General Committee, later serving as the club’s delegate on the Irish Yachting Association’s inshore committee. That role marked the beginning of his deep involvement with the national governing body, which ultimately led to his election as President of Irish Sailing.
Throughout his life Paddy remained closely connected to the sailing clubs of Dublin Bay. He was a valued member of Malahide Yacht Club and Howth Yacht Club, and in recent years enjoyed spending time at the National Yacht Club in Dún Laoghaire with family and friends. His enduring connection to club life reflected his belief that sailing’s greatest strength lies in its community. Those who knew Paddy remember a gentleman of warmth, generosity and quiet determination. He gave freely of his time and wisdom, encouraging sailors and volunteers alike, and his presence at regattas and club gatherings was always warmly welcomed.
Paddy is survived by his wife Marie, his sons Conor and Brian, daughter-in-law Nicola, and his grandchildren Nicholas, Charlie, Francesca and Juliane. He is also survived by his sister Rosemary and brothers Gerard and Barry. He was pre-deceased by his sister Anne and brother-in-law Alan.
On behalf of Irish Sailing, we extend our deepest sympathies to his wife Marie and sons Brian and Conor, and to all his family, friends and colleagues in the sailing community. Paddy’s contribution to Irish sailing was exceptional, and his legacy within the sport will endure for many years to come.
Above: Paddy pictured in recent years, courtesy of his son Brian O'Neill