COMPETING against the best youth sailors from across Northern Ireland, East Down Yacht Club’s sailors delivered a series of outstanding performances, bringing home championship titles, podium finishes and top-ten results.
Leading the way at the John Minnis Youth Championships, held at Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club on September 12 and 13, were Lyra McPolin and Abigail McCullough, who continued their excellent season by being crowned 2026 Northern Ireland Youth Feva champions.
Their victory comes hot on the heels of winning the Feva Strangford Lough Youth Series, confirming their status as one of the province’s leading youth double-handed crews.
In the Topper fleet, Daniel Long added another major achievement to an already impressive season by securing the title of 2026 Northern Ireland Youth Topper 4.2 champion.
There was further success in the Feva class, as brothers Ronan and Raven Hodge sailed superbly throughout the weekend to claim second place overall, while Ben Groves produced a strong and consistent performance to finish inside the top ten of the highly competitive ILCA 4 fleet.
EDYC Youth Co-ordinator Craig McCullough praised the sailors for their commitment and determination throughout the season.
“These results are thoroughly deserved and reflect the tremendous effort that these young sailors have put in over many months. Success in sailing doesn’t happen overnight. It comes from commitment, hard work and a willingness to keep learning every time you go afloat.”
