The Royal Cork Yacht Club’s much-loved annual Round the Island race took place last Friday evening, and true to tradition, it delivered everything a sailor could ask for — and more. From clear blue skies to thick, creeping fog, from a steady southeast breeze to moments of complete calm (and even a little reverse drifting), it was a night that had it all.

The race, which sends the fleet on a scenic yet often tactical loop around Spike Island, saw twenty boats line up at the start. Conditions were ever-changing, making it both a challenge and a thrill to navigate. While not all twenty made it to the finish line — several boats found themselves trapped in a windless hole behind Spike Island and were forced to retire — the spirit of the event remained high throughout.

A huge credit goes to Race Officer Batt O’Leary and his team, who orchestrated the event with their usual skill and dedication, ensuring a safe and exciting race for all competitors.

As the sun set and sails were lowered, crews returned to the RCYC clubhouse where Amy and her team welcomed everyone with warm hospitality, complimentary food, and live music — a perfect way to wind down and swap stories from the water.

When the results were tallied, the McGrath family aboard Big Mc claimed a well-earned third place. Second went to Damacle, skippered by Jan Van den Puil. But it was Muskateer, sailed by Gary O’Neill and James Kelleher, that took the top honours, winning the prestigious Ted Crosbie Plate for 2025.

Congratulations to all the sailors who took part, whether you made it to the finish line or not — it was a night to remember!