Cullaun Sailing Club played host to the Mirror Southern Championships over the weekend of 18th and 19th July, welcoming some of Ireland’s finest Mirror sailors for two days of outstanding racing on Cullaun lake.
The event attracted an impressive fleet, including former Irish Olympian Ger Owens and Thomas Chaix the Irish Sailing National Coach, highlighting the growing reputation of the East Clare venue as one of Ireland’s premier inland sailing locations.
Competitors were treated to near-perfect sailing conditions throughout the championship. Temperatures climbed into the mid 20s, while an average 12-knot breeze provided ideal racing conditions, allowing Des MacMahon the Race Officer and the race management team to complete the full schedule of six races across the two days.
The combination of sunshine, mainly consistent winds and close competition produced thrilling racing, with sailors challenged across every leg of the course. Tactical decision-making and boat handling were tested throughout the weekend as competitors battled for every position in a highly competitive fleet.
Hosting sailors of the calibre of Ger Owens, an Olympian renowned for his achievements in the 470 class, alongside Thomas Chaix the Irish Sailing National Coach, was a significant endorsement of both the championship and Cullaun Sailing Club. Their participation alongside the highly skilled youth sailors added to the prestige of the event while providing an inspiration for the club’s growing number of junior sailors, many of whom were on hand to watch the action unfold.
The success of the championship was made possible by the dedication of the club’s volunteers, race officers, safety crews and shore teams, whose hard work ensured a professionally run event both on and off the water. Visitors praised the warm welcome and excellent facilities that have helped establish Cullaun Sailing Club as one of Ireland’s leading sailing venues.
Speaking after the event, club members reflected on what was a memorable weekend of competitive sailing in exceptional conditions. With six quality races completed and competitors enjoying some of the best weather of the summer, the 2026 Mirror Southern Championships will be remembered as a fantastic showcase of Mirror sailing and another milestone in Cullaun Sailing Club’s continuing success following its recognition as 2025 Irish Sailing Club of the Year.
The club extends its sincere thanks to every competitor, volunteer, race official and supporter who contributed to making the championship such an outstanding success and looks forward to welcoming sailors back to Cullaun for future events.
Sailing Camps have been very busy this year also with 70 children going through their courses under Senior Instructor Rory O Sullivan and places are still left for a one week camp from July 27th to 31st. Full details available online.