More than 70 80 86 100 120 crews from 11 countries have already entered the battle to be the first ever World Champion in the sensational Laser SB20 sports boat. Entries opened on February 1st and will close off when the 120 boat limit is reached – or July 4th. There are already entries from Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Portugal, Italy, France, Netherlands – not to mention big Irish and UK fleets.
The event was formally launched at the National Yacht Club in Dublin Ireland last night by the Irish Minister of Education, Ms Mary Hanafin TD, before a large audience of guests including representatives from Dun Laoghaire business, local yacht club commodores and members and SB20 World Council representatives and sailors.
The SB20 (Sport Boat, 3 persons) is the fastest growing fleet of keel boats in the world and the World Championship promises to be one of the most exciting sailing events ever held. NYC Commodore Con Murphy spoke at the launch last night about the event, its significance and its status in international sailing.
“We are delighted at how quickly the entry list is being filled at this stage before the event. The SB20 is an out and out racing boat which has had explosive growth since the first models were made in 2000.This will be the hottest boat in international racing and we are delighted to be the first country and club to host their world championships
“This event will allow us to demonstrate what a great venue Dublin Bay is for big world class events. With the unrivaled infrastructure of Dun Laoghaire Harbour and its 3 Yacht Clubs and the proven experience of the race management teams we are well prepared for the considerable challenges posed by delivering a first rate racing experience for 120 strong fleet.”
From left: NYC Commodore Con Murphy, Minister Mary Hanafin, Cathy McAleavy and Rory Byrne, event chairman.
Minister Mary Hanafin
Dun Laoghaire Class Captain Gerry Dowling, left, Katie Ashworth (SB20 world council secretary) Daniel Geoghegan (SB20 world Council President).
Photos by Catherine Coleman