Fireflies are Ready to Sail
With the arrival of the new BIM Flag funded, Team Racing Firefly's, Irish Sailing Team began assembling the boats and equipment to enable delivery of the programme nationwide.
Thankfully the boats came part assembled, so the team rigged the masts and ensured that all parts were in place before stacking the 6 boat trailer for its first outing.
With bookings in from RStGYC, Howth, Malahide & Sutton throughout March. Demand for the boats, coaches and equipment is increasing. Indeed, Irish Sailing's Team Racing Contractor - Rory Martin will be visiting the Midlands and Galway over the next few weeks to discuss how they can get involved in the programme.
Whilst there is a small charge for the equipment to cover damages, transport and coach expenses, the roadshow is great value for clubs, classes, centres, colleges and schools throughout the country. The boats will be available for charter when accompanied by a representative from Irish Sailing. Clubs, classes & centres wishing to use their own boats can also avail of the programme at a reduced rate if they have a minimum of 4 matched boats. Both dinghies and keelboats are suitable.
Team Racing is a fun alternative to traditional fleet racing which incorporates rules knowledge, skill, tactics and manoeuvres. Quick fire races with short turnaround times enables a great social atmosphere. For racers, it's a fantastic way of developing your boat handling which is perfect for medal race situations. For coaches it is a perfect way of developing your knowledge and adding to your coaching ability. For clubs it is the ideal way to reduce the attrition of sailors after they leave the structured environs of youth sailing.
To find out more about the programme and how the roadshow can help your club survive and thrive contact Rory Martin - Teamracing@sailing.ie