Two of Northern Ireland’s brightest young athletes, Erin McIlwaine and Ellen Barbour, are gearing up for one of the most exciting transitions of their careers as they move from the youth classes into senior-level sailing. After several years of exceptional performances and rapid development, the duo now step confidently into the highly competitive 49erFX senior circuit.
Their rise highlights the strength of the Northern Ireland Sailing Team pathway and showcases what is possible for young sailors who combine determination, talent and an unwavering commitment to progress. Erin and Ellen continue to set the bar for emerging athletes within the RYA NI performance programme.
Their transition has also been recognised nationally. Sailing.ie recently featured their story among Ireland’s most promising sailing talents.
A Team Growing in Strength and Confidence
A recent video shared by the pair offers a glimpse into their mindset as they prepare for this new chapter. Erin and Ellen speak openly about embracing greater speed, higher pressure and tougher tactical demands. Their reflections show two athletes who are not only ready for senior racing but genuinely excited to push themselves further.
Their long-standing partnership, built on communication, trust and shared ambition, remains one of their greatest strengths. It has carried them through intense training blocks, major international regattas and countless learning moments. Now, with their eyes firmly on the future, the duo are embracing the busy road toward LA 2028 and beyond.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Their transition is significant well beyond their own performance goals. At the fireside chat during the John Minnis Youth Championships, Erin and Ellen captivated a room filled with aspiring young sailors. Their honesty, humour and willingness to share the highs and lows of competitive sailing left a lasting impression, proving just how powerful strong role models can be.
A Breakthrough Year of Results
2025 has already been a standout year for the pair, marked by results that place them firmly among the most exciting young 49erFX teams in Europe.
Major Results So Far
U23 49erFX World Championships – Bronze Medal
Erin and Ellen delivered one of the performances of their careers, securing third place overall and earning widespread recognition for their consistency and composure. The result is considered a major stepping stone in their transition to senior competition.
49erFX Junior European Championships – 6th Overall
The pair backed up their World Championship success with another impressive display, finishing 6th in a highly competitive international field and claiming a standout 2nd place race finish along the way.
Senior 49erFX World Championships – First Senior Worlds
At their first senior World Championships, the duo gained invaluable experience against some of the top teams in the world. They produced several top-three race finishes, climbed to 37th after qualifying, and secured their place in the Silver fleet — an encouraging debut at this level.
These results underline a season defined by growth, determination and the ability to rise to the occasion on some of the biggest stages in their class.
Photo: Sailing.Pics/Mogens Hansen – Royal Danish Yachtclub – KDY – Rungsted – Denmark
Looking Ahead
As they step fully into senior competition, Erin and Ellen enter a phase that will challenge and accelerate their development. Their work ethic, resilience and strong partnership speak volumes about their potential. Coaches and supporters across Northern Ireland’s sailing community have praised their commitment and the positive attitude they bring to every training session and event.
Their recent performances leave no doubt that they are on an upward trajectory. Whether battling tough conditions, pushing through physically demanding training blocks or lining up against seasoned international teams, they continue to show exactly why they are ones to watch.
In Their Own Words
We asked Erin and Ellen what this next step means for them.
Erin:
“Moving into senior competition is a big step, but it’s one we’ve been working towards for a long time. The racing is faster and more physical, but that’s exactly what motivates us. We’re ready for the challenge and excited to see how far we can push ourselves.”
Ellen:
“The level gets higher and everything becomes more intense. You have to be sharper with your decisions and really trust each other in the boat. The jump is challenging in the best way because it forces you to grow. We’re looking forward to proving ourselves at this stage.”
A Bright Future for Northern Irish Sailing
Erin and Ellen’s progression is a powerful example of what dedicated athletes can achieve with the right support behind them. As they build toward a demanding senior season, we encourage anyone interested in backing their journey, or in supporting NI Sailing Team athletes more broadly, to reach out at ryani@rya.org.uk. Every connection helps strengthen the pathway that makes stories like this possible.
