First female admiral appointed at world's oldest yacht club in Cork

Annamarie Fegan is the first female admiral in club's 303-year history 

Annamarie Fegan takes the helm in a year that the club is hosting two major events — the Irish Sailing Youth Nationals in April, and the bi-annual Volvo Cork Week from July 15 to 19.

The first female admiral has been appointed to lead the Royal Cork Yacht Club (RCYC) in Crosshaven, the world's oldest yacht club dating back to 1720.

Annamarie Fegan said she aims to break down social and economic barriers to sailing at the club and to get more people out on the water.

Over its 303-year history, the RCYC has evolved from being a gentlemen's sailing club to a family-oriented institution.

Ms Fegan takes the helm in a year that the club is hosting two major events — the Irish Sailing Youth Nationals in April, and the bi-annual Volvo Cork Week from July 15 to 19.

Ms Fegan, a keen sailor and a longtime member of the club, was instrumental in hosting some of the the RCYC’s biggest events in the past, including the Volvo Cork Week.

The former owner of catering business An Excellent Choice, Ms Fegan re-trained as a co-creational psychotherapist and recently completed a masters in the psychotherapy of relationship mentoring.

On the water, she has enjoyed many sailing triumphs, her proudest being with her husband Denis, daughters Molly and Mia, and the Nieulargo Crew as they won the best Irish boat in the iconic Fastnet Race last year.

Commenting on being the first woman to hold the highest position in the club, Ms Fegan said: “As the club's first female admiral, I stand on the shoulders of outstanding female members who worked tirelessly for the club but were not given this opportunity. 

I am confident that we have amazing girls rising up through the ranks who will be well-suited to take on this post in the future. I’m very excited about working with the new leadership team as the volunteers are the backbone of the club. 

Ms Fegan said that she is passionate about giving opportunities to get more young people on the water.

“We have pathways for all ages into sailing from young kids to teens and adults. Not everyone can afford to own a boat but every boat needs a crew and we are always looking for crew.

“Anyone can get involved these days and it’s a really great sport. You learn fantastic skills from basic boat-handling to decision-making. Most of all it’s fun and challenging."

Annamarie Fegan was instrumental in hosting some of the RCYC’s biggest events in the past, including the Volvo Cork Week.

The RCYC is now working hard to break through the social and financial barriers that may have prevented people from trying sailing up to now, she said.

“We want to make it accessible for all who wish to give it a try.

“For instance, every 6th class child in Crosshaven gets the chance to do a one-week sailing course and people of all ages can sign up for our Try Sailing courses.

“While some people enjoy the competitive side, some just want to enjoy being part of a club and having fun on the water. For instance, the mixed dinghies with kids are huge now — they really enjoy it.” 

Ms Fegan’s new executive will include three women for the first time.

The appointments reflect the club's commitment to empowering women in the sport and to fostering an environment where all members can thrive, a spokesperson said.

Speaking about the family benefits of sailing, she said: “It’s great for mental health, getting out in the fresh air, and it opens up fantastic opportunities. My children (both in their early 20’s) have travelled teaching sailing. Nothing beats the feeling of being on the water — it clears my head. We are lucky here in Cork to have such great facilities for sailing.” 

The RCYC also expressed its gratitude to outgoing Admiral Kieran O'Connell for his dedicated service.

RCYC general manager Gavin Deane said: “We are indebted to Kieran for his great leadership and direction over the last number of years. His vision and dedication have been instrumental in the great development and growth of the club. We look forward to the innovative and inclusive direction that Annamarie will undoubtedly bring to the role”.

Founded in 1720, the Royal Cork Yacht Club is the oldest in the world. The club has played a vital role in shaping the maritime heritage of the Cork region.

Enterprise Minister Simon Coveney welcomed the new appointment, saying that Ms Fegan’s leadership “will inspire a new generation of sailing families and keep the club at the cutting edge of sailing”.