June 1-3. 4 weeks to Launch
Most of you will know that I have been making a fair bit of noise about this event already. From a simple idea to introduce a new regatta day for Rathmullan, Rick LeVert and his team in Rathmullan have put together a weekend that is daring in scale and has the potential to become a proper national event.
For our part, LSYC are managing the keel boat racing events. In addition, we are also playing an important role in promoting the festival itself and assisting in its organisation.
The keel boat events comprise the Saldanha Cup on Saturday, 2nd July. This will be a long haul race, with a Rathmullan pier start, to the Saldanha wreck and back. Sunday will comprise the Lough Swilly Cup, based on short olympic style races around the pier and bay.
At this stage, we are anticipating an IRC fleet, a Club Class fleet and a White Sails fleet.
From meetings held to date, it is clear the Saldanha Cup will be the signature event of the whole festival. Beginning with a parade of sails past the pier, expect to be announced to the crowd by the resident MC, shadowed by hospitality boats following the race, and greeted by the crowds in the Battery for the prize-giving before the night’s festivities begin. Glory and adulation!
I will be updating the membership with news and developments as we approach the event.
This week, Rick and his team have confirmed the following:
- All race entry forms received by Monday 20 June will be entered for a prize draw- 1st prize 2nt B&B at Rathmullan House, 2nd prize Donegal Hamper
- Pontoon fees to be waived over SeaFest
- New visitor moorings to be laid by the pier
- Register for SeaFest updates on Facebook and you’ll be entered for a draw to win another 2nt B&B at Rathmullan House.
Some great prizes on offer you’ll agree, so get registered and prepare crew and boat!
For race entry forms and more information on the festival and events, please visit the website at www.seafestloughswilly.com.
In the meantime, see you on the water.
Paul J Hasson
Commodore