The 2026 29er National Championships took place at the Royal St. George Yacht Club from 19-21 June, with ten teams competing in a highly competitive championship supported by Covey Watersports and Irish Sailing.
With many sailors still completing State examinations, the event began with a reduced schedule on Friday before a full programme of racing was completed over the weekend. Dublin Bay delivered a variety of conditions, from light winds to classic summer sea breezes, allowing Race Officer Barry O'Neill and his team to complete a ten-race series.
Racing throughout the fleet was exceptionally close, with many races decided by only a handful of seconds. Fast turnarounds between races kept competitors on their toes and ensured a full championship programme was delivered.
The standout performers of the event were Juliet Ryan and Ella Rock of the Royal St. George Yacht Club. Their impressive consistency saw them finish the championship on just 11 points from ten races, securing the overall National Championship title. In addition to becoming Irish Sailing 29er National Champions, they also claimed the Women's National Championship title and the Under 17 National Championship.
Gemma Brady and Grace Keating of the National Yacht Club and Lough Derg Yacht Club finished second overall to take the silver Irish Sailing medals, while Louise Hanley and Sebastian Wright completed the podium in third place.
Among the newer teams entering the class, Julian O'Leary and Dillon Kennedy of the Royal St. George Yacht Club were the highest-placed boys' team, while Emily and Annabel Ridout of Ballyholme Yacht Club claimed the top Rookie Team award following an impressive first championship in the class.
The event showcased the growing strength of youth double-handed sailing in Ireland, with a talented group of young sailors demonstrating significant progression throughout the fleet. With strong competition on the water and a fantastic atmosphere ashore, the championship highlighted the positive momentum currently building within the Irish 29er class.
Several of the leading teams now turn their attention to the 29er World Championships in Kiel, Germany. Having qualified earlier in the season, Juliet Ryan and Ella Rock, Gemma Brady and Grace Keating, and Louise Hanley and Sebastian Wright will represent Ireland on the international stage in the coming weeks.
Full results can be found: Sailwave results for 9er National Championships 2026 at Royal St. George Yacht Club 2026