Whitehead club set to host Irish Topper National Championships

A bit of competition will be provided by County Antrim Yacht Club who are sailing high after being successfully selected as the host venue for the Irish Topper National Championships 2015, which will be held over the weekend.

This prestigious racing event brings together top athletes ranging in age from eight to 16, and attracts upwards of 100 competitor boats on an annual basis.

This year looks set to be no exception with confirmation that the Royal Yachting Association (RYA) GBR squad will be travelling across from England with the Irish Sailing Squad (ISA) and the RYA NI Squad all in attendance.

Three thrilling days of sailing are guaranteed with training taking place all week before Day 1 starts on July 3.

With people travelling from all overIreland and each sailor accompanied by family, friends and supporters it’s literally all hands on deck. A huge logistical exercise with more than 100 volunteers has swung into action organising accommodation, access, facilities, food, parking, security and safety.

Fortunately, CAYC is well experienced in staging such events, having hosted other high calibre competitions like the East Coast Flying 15 Championships and the European and Irish Scorpion Championships.

Generous sponsorship has already been secured from Mercedes-Benz Truck & Van (NI) and Stena Line, with valuable support from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council and Drinks Inc.

The opening two days will doubtless deliver a thrilling spectacle, but Sunday promises to be a triple assault on the senses with the final day of the championship, the Tall Ships departing along Belfast Lough and the highly-anticipated Red Arrows display.