Mark O’Connor – Fireside Chats
Join us for an unforgettable fireside chat with Mark O’Connor on January 15th.
Hear first-hand tales from one of Ireland’s most inspiring sailing achievements as Mark recounts his incredible Mini Transat adventure — a race widely regarded as one of the toughest solo ocean challenges in the world.
Mark took on the Atlantic alone, racing a 6.5-metre boat across thousands of miles of open ocean with no outside assistance, no weather routing, and no support — just skill, resilience, and determination. Battling relentless seas, shifting winds, exhaustion, and isolation, Mark pushed himself to the absolute limit.
His journey culminated in an extraordinary 20th-place photo finish after 17 intense days at sea, making Mark the youngest Irish Sailor to cross the Atlantic Solo, a testament to razor-thin margins, mental toughness, and relentless focus.
From moments of pure exhilaration to the harsh realities of solo life offshore, Mark will share what it truly takes to survive — and compete — in one of sailing’s most demanding races.
Expect gripping stories, hard-won lessons, and an honest look at courage, preparation, and perseverance on the Atlantic Ocean.
January 15th @ 7.30pm
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