Sailing extravaganza for Waterford this weekend

The event will see some of the foremost emerging sailing talent in the country converge on County Waterford

This coming weekend will see some of the country's foremost emerging sailing talent converge on County Waterford for the Zurich 2026 Munster Optimist Championships. Pic: Waterford Harbour Sailing Club FB

This coming weekend will see some of the country's foremost emerging sailing talent converge on County Waterford for the Zurich 2026 Munster Optimist Championships.

The competition, which is being hosted by Waterford Harbour Sailing Club, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 13 and 14, at Dunmore East.

A spokesperson for the hosts said over 150 young sailors aged 9 to 14, from across Ireland, will converge on the Déise county for the event.

"The two-day event will see competitors race in regatta, junior and senior fleets, showcasing the depth of emerging sailing talent in Ireland," she said.

"The championships are a key fixture in the Irish youth sailing calendar and promise competitive racing and exciting on-the-water action," she added.

Racing will get underway on Saturday morning with boats launching at 110am and the first race scheduled to begin at 11.55am.

The following day, Sunday, June 14, an earlier start is planned, with boats launching at 10am and the first race at 10.55am.

"Set against the scenic backdrop of Waterford Harbour, the event will bring together sailors, families and clubs from across the country, fostering sportsmanship, skill development and a passion for sailing among young participants," said the spokesperson.

"The Optimist Munster Championships are supported by Zurich, O'Donnell Crisps, Flahavan’s, and Mulligan's Pharmacies, whose sponsorship helps make this major youth sailing event possible," she added, before commenting: "Waterford Harbour Sailing Club looks forward to welcoming visitors and competitors for a weekend of thrilling racing and community spirit."