Triple Crown Concludes in Style with Spectacular Naval Race

The curtain has come down on what was an exhilarating and hard-fought Triple Crown series, with the much-anticipated Naval Race last Saturday serving as a fitting finale. The event marked the culmination of three prestigious races — The Cobh to Blackrock Race, The Cork Buoy Race, and The Naval Race — and delivered thrilling sailing, unpredictable weather, and an overwhelming sense of camaraderie among Cork Harbour's sailing community.

A Day of Contrasts on the Water

The day began with a touch of drama, as earlier in the week, the weather threatened to upend the fleet's plans. Initially, strong winds loomed ominously, only to fade away into a frustrating calm. But patience paid off — by early afternoon, the skies cleared and a steady light breeze arrived, providing ideal sailing conditions for the final showdown.

The race kicked off from Dosco, with the ceremonial starting gun provided in spectacular fashion by Barry Hayes of UK Sailmakers Ireland — a cannon blast that set the tone for the day. From there, the fleet charted its way toward the traditional finish line just off the Naval Base, with Race Officer Barry Rose and his team expertly managing the course in shifting conditions.

The Irish Naval Service: A Welcome Ashore

Once again, the Irish Naval Service offered unmatched hospitality, rolling out the red carpet for the competitors. Special thanks are due to Commander Brian Matthews and Capt. Willie Roberts, whose efforts made the experience as memorable ashore as it was afloat.

Naval Race Results: Triumphs Across the Fleet

In White Sail Echo, the competition was fierce. Andy Jenkins' Morning After claimed third, with Frank Caul and John Molloy's Prince of Tides securing second. But it was Batt and Helen O'Leary on Sweet Dreams who topped the class, taking home the prestigious gun shell casing trophy.

In White Sail IRC, the podium was reshuffled: Prince of Tides placed third, Kieran Collins impressively solo-sailed If into second, while Andy Jenkins returned to the top spot, winning the class with Morning After.

The Spinnaker classes brought their own drama. In Echo, Rian Lyden's Ellida came third, Fiona Young's North Star took second, but it was Pat Tanner's Bataleur 88 that claimed the top prize. Bataleur 88 continued its dominance in IRC, where Michael McCann's Don't Dilly Dally finished third and North Star second, but once again Tanner's crew stood atop the podium.

Triple Crown Series: A New Tradition is Born

Saturday wasn't just about the Naval Race — it marked the conclusion of the inaugural Triple Crown, a collaborative effort between the Royal Cork Yacht Club (RCYC) and Cobh Sailing Club (CSC). The initiative brought together sailors from across the region in a series that highlighted the best of Cork Harbour racing. The overwhelming success ensures this will be a permanent fixture in future racing calendars.

Huge credit goes to Ian, Johanna, and Dom from CSC, as well as all race officers and volunteers from both clubs who made the series possible.

Triple Crown Champions: 

After the Naval Race trophies were presented, attention turned to the Triple Crown overall standings — a testament to endurance and performance over the three races:

• White Sail Class 3: Clodagh – The Foster Family
• White Sail Class 2: Sweet Dreams – Batt and Helen O'Leary
• White Sail Class 1: Rosmarina – Ronan Twomey
• Spinnaker Class 3: Humdinger – Jon McClean and Mark Mansfield
• Spinnaker Class 2: Don't Dilly Dally – Michael McCann
• Spinnaker Class 1: Bataleur 88 – Pat Tanner
• Spinnaker Class 0: Nieulargo – The Murphy Family

And the biggest honour of the series, the Overall Team Winner, went to the combined efforts of Rosmarina and Imp — a truly well-deserved victory.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 edition of the Triple Crown has set a high bar, and by all accounts, it's only the beginning. With enthusiastic participation, club collaboration, and a perfect mix of competitive sailing and warm hospitality, Cork Harbour has proven once again that it is a jewel in the crown of Irish sailing.

A final word of thanks goes to Bob Bateman, whose stunning photography has captured the series for posterity. To all sailors, organizers, and supporters — congratulations and thank you. Until next season — fair winds and following seas!