Munster Schools Team Racing Championship Overview
The Munster Schools Team Racing Championship delivered a thrilling day of racing on Friday, 27 February at the Fastnet Marine Outdoor Education Centre (FMOEC) in Schull. Fifteen school teams gathered for a full schedule of tightly contested races, showcasing the growing strength of schools sailing across the province.
Despite testing conditions that ranged from near-calm spells to a brisk northerly breeze, race officer John Corkery and his team ensured a seamless event. An impressive 60 races were completed, giving every team eight races and plenty of opportunity to demonstrate their skill, teamwork, and tactical awareness.
Competition was fierce throughout the fleet, with consistency proving crucial. Schull Community College emerged as the dominant force, claiming both first and second place overall. The contest for third was especially dramatic, with four teams—Christian Brothers College Cork, Crosshaven White, SCC Orcas, and SCC Marines—finishing level on race wins. CBC A ultimately secured the final podium position on countback, earning third place with the lowest average points score.
This championship marked the first official competitive event organised under the banner of Irish Schools Sailing (ISS), signalling an exciting new chapter for youth sailing nationwide.
The inclusion of two debut schools—Mount Saint Michael, Rosscarbery and Newtown School, Waterford—added further significance to the occasion. Both were presented with Irish Sailing beanie hats to commemorate their first appearance at the event.
Beyond the racing, sailors were widely praised for their positive attitude, teamwork, and respect on the water. The Sportsmanship Award recognised exemplary teamwork and conduct from Daisy Walsh and Afric Barry (Scoil Mhuire), Camille Goggin and Antonia Twohig (St Angela's College, Cork), and Jamie Blennerhassett and Nancy Medcalf (Bandon
Participating Schools
The following schools contributed to a vibrant and competitive championship:
- Mount Saint Michael, Rosscarbery
- Bandon Grammar School
- Christian Brothers College, Cork
- Schull Community College
- Coláiste Muire, Crosshaven
- Newtown School, Waterford
- Scoil Mhuire
Podium Results
1. Schull Sharks
2. Schull Seals
3. CBC A
With strong participation, outstanding sportsmanship, and competitive racing from start to finish, this year's Munster Schools Team Racing Championship highlighted the depth of talent emerging across the region. The continued growth of the event, together with the arrival of new schools, points to a bright and promising future for schools sailing in Munster.