This years Dublin Match Racing Open is the first such event in Ireland with an entry of less than 300 Euro, and thanks to the support of sponsors INVESTWISE and Aqua Resteraunt there will be no short cuts taken in terms of quality. The teams will need to be prepared for a long day on the water with racing on Saturday set to continue well into the evening to ensure that everyone gets maximum value for money in terms of racing.

“As a Financial Planning firm, we are acutely aware that people are looking for better value in all things these days and so we are delighted that our support for the Dublin Match Racing Open is going directly to reduce the entry cost for competitors. We are looking forward to an exciting and competitive event.” said Dave Quinn, MD of INVESTWISE. Event chairman, Richard Morris added “295 Euro compares pretty well with the cost of entering a similar sized boat in any of the big regattas, and there are no hidden costs with the boats provided for you. Split between 5 crew that’s 60 Euro each for a weekends activity. That stacks up against any other similar activity such as go karting or horse riding. Even dance lessons would cost you more than that!”

Once again the Irish Sailing Associations fleet of J80s will be used. New sails from Norths and a full clean down the day before the event will ensure that the boats are as closely matched as possible. 5 overseas umpires fly in for the event to keep things honest. Cube Images will be at the event to provide live commentary and daily video on line.

As well as a focus on providing younger sailors the oportunity to put a team together for themselves and access competitive sailing, last year saw the first ever Womens Match Racing Championships for all female teams. It’s hoped that we’ll start to see some of these teams at events like the Dublin Open too.

Link to the Notice of Race and entry form:
http://hyc.ie/openevents11/matchracing_dublin/DMRO_2011_NOR.pdf
http://hyc.ie/openevents11/matchracing_dublin/DMRO_2011_EntryForm.pdf

Ireland takes on the World again!  After last years inaugural event, the International Match race gives the Irish Match Racers the chance to win back the trophy.  Six Irish teams will compete against six International teams in the Grade 3 event to be held in the natural amphitheatre of Scotsman's Bay, Dun Laoire.

This years event will again attempt to bring Match Racing to the Spectator, with the innovative Hot Seat Packages.  This will allow spectators the chance to race with top Match race teams and experience the thrills and excitement of a race along with them.  On the water VHF commentary will again be provided.  A new feature to this years event will be a Spectator mark, which will replace the standard inflatable mark, getting spectators up close to the action.  The spectators will be hoping the Match Racers don't hit any marks!

With teams from Australia, New Zealand, England and Denmark already signed up, the International team will be strong again this year and well placed to defend their trophy.

For more details on how to be involved see  www.matchrace.posterous.com