Champion Ellis makes solid start in opening races

THE largest fleet of National 18 footers assembled in Crosshaven yesterday for the opening races of the “Cock o’ the North” or Irish and British championships.

Reigning champion Anthony Ellis from the Isle of Man Yacht Club opened his defence with solid first and second places despite the testing light airs off Roches Point. Top Irish sailors Tom Crosbie and Colin Barry are tied for second place.

The record fleet of 52 boats is the largest ever, thanks to the inclusion of the classics division comprising many of the best known and loved wooden boats generations have grown up with.