The IUSA Intervasities 2016, organised by Trinity sailing and DIT sailing club took place in Kilrush, Co Clare from the 25th-27thof February. The sheltered Kilrush Creek provided an ideal racing area for both competitors and spectators.
The event kicked off on Thursday with 27 teams from 11 different universities from Ireland and the UK competing in 4 different round robin flights. UCC1, Loughborough University, CIT and UCD1 came out on top of each flight after the first day. The teams were split into Gold, Silver and Bronze for a second round robin on Friday before entering the knockout stages on Saturday. The quarter finals saw some intense racing with Trinity winning over the undefeated reigning champions, UCC1. UCD1 raced UCD2 in the semi finals and Trinity came up against Loughborough University.
The best of 5 final came down to colours rivals, UCD and Trinity in light, challenging conditions. While Trinity won the first race, UCD came back with 3 consecutive wins, taking the varsities title. UCD2 were the third placed team.
Full Results:
Gold Fleet
1. UCD1
2. TCD1
3. UCD2
4. Loughborough University
Silver Fleet
1. UCD3
2. CIT
3. TCD6/DIT
Bronze Fleet
1. Queens University Belfast
2. UCD4
IUSA Awards
• Sailor of the year: Scott Flanigan, TCD
• Crew of the year: Cliodhna Connolly, UCD
• Fresher of the year: Mark Bolger, TCD
• Club of the year: CIT
• Event of the Year: IUSA intervarsities hosted by TCD & DIT
This excellent event could not have gone ahead without all of the people who helped facilitate the large group of sailors; the staff at Kilrush marina, Adrian O’Connell of the Royal Western Yacht club, Relax Ireland for organising the accomodation and all the jury and race committee who kindly gave up their time over the 3 days. We would also like to thank our sponsors Hunky Dory, Jump Juice bars, Dubarry and Red Bull.
Words: Lucy Bolger
Photos: Eoin Cambay & Michael Dunne