The 2025/2026 schools sailing season delivered one of the strongest and most competitive years to date, with high participation, close racing and continued growth across all regions.
The season began with the regional championships, setting the tone early with impressive fleet sizes and a high standard of competition. In Leinster, a record 19 teams and 114 sailors competed in one of the largest events in the schools sailing calendar. After more than 70 races, the championship came down to a dramatic tie-break and sudden-death final, with St Andrew’s College taking victory ahead of The Institute, while Gonzaga College secured third place. The event also saw a strong debut from Campbell College, who progressed to the quarter-finals.
In Munster, racing at the Fastnet Marine Outdoor Education Centre brought together 15 teams and 90 sailors for a full schedule of 60 races in testing conditions. Schull Community College dominated the event, taking both first and second place, while Christian Brothers College Cork secured third following a tightly contested tie-break. The championship also marked the first event under the Irish Schools Sailing banner, with new schools joining the fleet.
The Connacht-Ulster Championships at Galway City Sailing Club marked a welcome return for the event. Five teams competed in cold and blustery conditions, with a full round robin series resulting in a three-way tie. Coláiste Éinde emerged as winners following the tie-break, with Colasanctius College finishing as runners-up.
The Fastnet Schools Team Racing event further highlighted the strength of the fleet, with 24 teams and 144 sailors competing, including international entries from Royal Hospital School and Ryde School. Despite losing the opening day to weather, an outstanding effort from volunteers ensured 192 races were completed across the remaining two days. Schull Community College Sharks delivered a flawless performance, winning all 16 of their races to take overall victory, ahead of RHS Falcons and Ryde on Time. St Andrew’s College won the Silver Fleet, while Kilkenny College secured the Bronze Fleet title.
The season concluded with the Irish Schools Sailing National Team Racing Championship at the Royal Irish Yacht Club, where over 26 teams from all four provinces came together for a fitting finale. Racing in Firefly dinghies and following a Swiss League format, the event showcased the depth of talent, teamwork and tactical awareness developed throughout the season. Racing inside the harbour provided excellent conditions and visibility, adding to the atmosphere both on and off the water.
Across all events, the standard of racing, sportsmanship and participation reflected a thriving schools sailing scene. The continued growth of the programme, supported by clubs, volunteers and organisers nationwide, points to a strong and sustainable future for team racing in Ireland.