Maritime Champions Gather for Unforgettable Showdowns at RS400 Eurocup and UK-Irish National Championship 2025

Published: 01 Aug 2025
The Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club (RNIYC) gears up for the fervently awaited Mercedes-Benz RS400 Eurocup and UK-Irish National Championship 2025.

As the sense of anticipation intensifies, RNIYC plays host for the second time to the famous Mercedes-Benz Belfast RS400 Eurocup and UK-Irish National Championships. Prepped to commence its arcs from August 4th to 8th, the championship is already ringing with the vibrations of potential maritime legends.

A curious mixture of local and global talent will be displayed. Familiar powerhouse pair from England, Jacob and Kayleigh Ainsworth aim to dominate the top spots, continuing their legacy from events in Tynemouth. Not far behind are Beverley Sailing Club’s Ollie Groves and Ester Parkhurst. Ollie comes with an impressive record of progressing through the RS200s and RS300s, finding victory in the RS400s, and proudly flaunts the RS400 Northern Tour title. Alongside Ester, he eyes the trophy.

Exciting news also springs from the Irish front. Olympian Rob Dixon and his teammate Adam Hyland from Howth YC have promised an impressive show, especially considering their conquests at the RS400 Winter Series. The duo is expected to place in the top five. Further strength is brought by Chris Helme and Alan Claffey, who are entering the waters fresh from their RS Inlands victory.

The local arena showcases the likes of Ross Kearney, a former Mirror World Champion, and his experienced crew, Andrew Vaughan. Kearney and Vaughan, armed with high expectations and a new boat, will certainly increase the local energy and hold high hopes for a home win.

The event promises fierce competition, interesting rivalries and thrilling moments of brilliance. It is sure to capture the stretches of maritime enthusiasts’ imaginations and boil with fervor of sailing spirit. Indeed, such a panorama of high stakes, top-notch talent, and thrilling races is what makes the RS400 Eurocup a much-awaited event on the sailing calendar.