The Irish nationals 2009 delivered great racing to conclude an excellent season for the Irish optimist class. The RstG YC and his team of volunteers made it an event to remember with a full series of 12 races for the juniors and only one race short in the seniors in mainly big breeze and great entertainement ashore for the kids (and parents).

It was great for me to have a larger overview of the fleet instead of actively coaching a few sailors. It was also a excellent opportunity to assess the overall progress of the fleet! And I saw a lot of promisses for the futur in both the senior and the junior fleet... The overall quality of the fleet is surely progressing and the usual leaders did not have it their way all the time and had to battle to remain on top of the leaderboard showing the increasing depth we have in the fleet. With 178 main fleet sailors entered and visitors from India, Australia, the UK and the USA, it is showing the increasing attraction for the class in Ireland. So well done to all involved, ISA, IODAI, clubs, parents and of course the sailors themselves

The nationals was also the last indicator event for selection into the ISA squad. Now in its 3rd year the ISA Optimist Squad is looking forward to another exciting programme with great coaching and advice for the sailors. Details about the squad and the programme can be downloaded here. If you are interested in applying for the squad please complete the application form by September 2nd. Click here. 

Please note application does not guarantee selection. In the case of a sailor not being selected a full refund will be given.

Thomas