Northern Ireland sailors returned to competitive action at the Irish Topper Winter Championships at East Antrim Boat Club on Larne Lough, marking an important early-season event for the fleet.
With strong racing across both the 4.2 and 5.3 rigs, the regatta brought together sailors from across Ireland, providing a valuable opportunity to build confidence, sharpen race craft and gain experience in a competitive fleet environment.
Among the standout performances was NI Sailing Team athlete Adam Green, who secured 1st overall in the 5.3 fleet, with teammates Ben McCaldin and Leo West-Hurst completing the top three.
”"Winter is a great chance for sailors to get back on the race course ahead of what promises to be an action-packed season. For some, this is their first event outside of club racing since last year, a chance to find their rhythm again and build confidence. For others, it’s a stepping stone to refine their race craft and hone the techniques developed over the winter’s squad training sessions.
No matter the reason, one thing is for sure: the sun was shining, and the sailors were smiling.”
Andrew BakerRYANI Performance Manager
Racing on Larne Lough provided a mix of conditions across the weekend, requiring sailors to adapt quickly and make smart decisions on the race course. With tight racing throughout the fleet, consistency proved key across the series.
NI Sailing Team sailors competing across the fleet included Adam Green, Ben McCaldin, Leo West-Hurst, Charlie Haslett, Emma West-Hurst (first female and sixth overall), Hugh Hutchinson, James Westhead, Edward Reynolds, Max Boyd, Penny Doig and Daniel Long (2nd place, 4.2 Fleet).
Photos from the event, sourced via East Antrim Boat Club’s Facebook page, have also been added to the gallery.
Full results from the Irish Topper Winter Championships are available via East Antrim Boat Club (link below).
The event marked a positive return to racing, with plenty more to come as the season builds into the summer months.
