SAILING ISA Youth National & Junior Pathway Championship 2009

• 80 young sailors pre-registered for ISA Youth Nationals & Junior Pathway Championship 2009
• ISA Youth Nationals & Junior Pathway Championship 2009
• Increased Competition among Sailors expected

Over 80 young sailors have already signed up to compete in the ISA Youth National & Junior Pathway Championship 2009. Representing ISA clubs from around the country the sailors are competing across 7 classes for the title of national champion.

This event will not only encompass selection trials for the Laser Radials, Laser 4.7's and 420 but will also act as a qualifier for sailors interested in representing Ireland at the ISAF Youth World Championships, which will take place in Brazil in July.

ISA Youth & Development Manager Rory Fitzpatrick commented:
"This event will be very hotly contested, particularly among the Boys in the Laser Radial class as this year there are very many strong contenders for the National title."

Already registered to compete include Ross Vaughan, Oliver Loughead, Chris Penny and Philip Doran who is currently the U17 Laser 4.7 World Champion.

Rory Fitzpatrick, ISA Youth & Development Manager explained: "For 2009 this event looks set to attract even more competitors over the Easter break. The formula of running with a range of junior classes works on two fronts: families can bring all their young sailors to the one regatta and the junior sailors also get the opportunity to mix and learn from the more experienced youth."

Based in the Fasnet International Outdoor Education & Marine Centre, the sailors will sail in two race areas in Schull Harbour and Roaringwater Bay. Race Officer David Harte is in charge of the Youth fleet, which includes the Laser Standard, Laser Radial, Laser 4.7 and double-handed 420 dinghy. Liam Dineen is the Race Officer for the Junior Pathway Classes, which includes the Topper & Optimist dinghies and the double-handed Feva.