Malahide Yacht Club Named Irish Sailing “Club of the Year” 2026
Everyone at Malahide Yacht Club is delighted and immensely proud to announce that the club has been named Irish Sailing “Club of the Year” at the prestigious Irish Sailing Awards.
The award was presented on Thursday 5th March 2026 at a special ceremony held in the beautiful surroundings of the National Maritime Museum of Ireland, bringing together sailors, clubs and volunteers from across the country to celebrate excellence within Irish sailing.
Recognition for Inclusion and Community Spirit – According to Irish Sailing, the award was presented to Malahide Yacht Club:
“Following their hugely successful hosting of the Watersports Inclusion Games. A fully volunteer-led club, Malahide continues to embody the core values of Irish sailing through its commitment to participation and inclusion.”
This recognition reflects something that everyone involved in MYC already knows — the club is powered by its community of passionate volunteers, who dedicate countless hours to making sailing accessible, welcoming and enjoyable for everyone.
Hosting the Watersports Inclusion Games
A key factor in receiving this award was the club’s successful hosting of the Watersports Inclusion Games, an event that demonstrated the very best of what sailing can offer.
The Games brought together participants of all abilities and backgrounds, showcasing how watersports can be inclusive, empowering and accessible. Through careful organisation, enthusiastic volunteers and a welcoming atmosphere, Malahide Yacht Club created an event that embodied the spirit of participation and community.
For many involved, it was more than just a sailing event — it was a powerful demonstration of how clubs like MYC can break down barriers and open the water to everyone.
A Volunteer-Led Success Story
Like many Irish sailing clubs, Malahide Yacht Club is run almost entirely by volunteers. From race officers and safety boat crews to instructors, event organisers and committee members, the club relies on the dedication of people who give their time simply because they love sailing and their community.
Winning Club of the Year is therefore a tribute not just to one event or one committee, but to the entire membership who contribute throughout the year — whether organising regattas, coaching young sailors, supporting inclusion programmes or simply creating a friendly and welcoming environment around the club.
Receiving this award on behalf of the club was a proud moment for everyone involved with MYC. It reflects the continued growth and energy within the club and highlights the important role Malahide Yacht Club plays within the wider Irish sailing community.
The award also recognises the club’s ongoing commitment to:
- Promoting participation at all levels
- Supporting inclusive sailing initiatives
- Encouraging youth development and new sailors
- Maintaining a strong volunteer culture
- Creating a vibrant and welcoming sailing community
Looking Ahead
While this award celebrates what has already been achieved, it also provides great momentum for the future. Malahide Yacht Club will continue to build on this success by expanding participation, supporting new initiatives and ensuring that sailing remains accessible and enjoyable for all.
On behalf of the entire club, thank you to Irish Sailing for this wonderful recognition, and most importantly thank you to the volunteers, members and supporters who make Malahide Yacht Club such a special place.
This award truly belongs to everyone in MYC.