RSGYC’s DIANE II Wins Ruffian National Championships
25 July
The 2011 Ruffian National Championships were held from 22 – 24 July hosted by our neighbours the National Yacht Club. The event was deservedly won by Alan Claffey of the George sailing Diane II.
As well as a strong contingent from the Dun Laoghaire waterfront clubs three Ruffians travelled from Carrickfergus Sailing Club in the North and another two from Skerries Sailing Club ensuring keen competition for the local boats.
Winds were forecast to be very light for the week-end and Friday was certainly a struggle for the Race Committee with large shifts in the already calm airs. However the fine weather helped on both Saturday and Sunday with moderate sea breezes providing lovely racing conditions and a full seven race schedule was completed by Sunday afternoon.
The event was deservedly won by Alan Claffey of the George sailing Diane II. She won four of the seven races but still only won on count back from Carrageen from Carrickfergus Sailing Club (helmed by Trevor Kirkpatrick) such was the closeness of the racing. Interestingly both Diane II and Carrageen are former National Champions, when the event was won by Alan’s father-in-law, Bruce Carswell, and Trevor’s father, Alec Kirkpatrick, respectively.
Third place was also only decided on count back with Siamsa of Skerries Sailing Club (Robbie Keys) narrowly edging out the George’s Shannagh (Stephen Gill).
Another George boat, Ruff Nuff (Shane Mitchell) took second place in the Silver fleet.
Next year’s Ruffian National Championships will be hosted by the George as Alan Claffey also happens to be the incoming Ruffian Class Captain.
Report by Alan Kirwan
