Dun Laoghaire To Host 2011 ISA Mitsubishi Youth National Championships

Seven classes will be represented and for the youth sailors, it will decide which Irish sailors will compete internationally during 2011 and will act as a pathway for future Olympic sailors.

Not only will the ISA Mitsubishi Youth Nationals over the May weekend be an important event for youth sailors, it is also a major milestone for the organizers of the ISAF Youth Worlds 2012 as it offers them the opportunity to test drive the logistics of managing such a large event incorporating three clubs, three race courses and hundreds of volunteers.

"Dun Laoghaire has a proud reputation for hosting international events such as the biennial combined clubs Dun Laoghaire Regatta and numerous world championships," said Event Chairman Brian Craig.

"However in 2011 the ISA [Irish Sailing Association] Mitsubishi Youth Nationals is of more significance as it gives us an opportunity to test our systems in advance of the 2012 ISAF Youth Worlds."

ISA Chief Executive Harry Hermon added, "The ISA Mitsubishi Youth Nationals is a significant event on the racing calendar. It involves young sailors from all the Olympic Pathway classes, some of whom are competing for places on the team that will represent Ireland in the ISAF Youth Worlds later this year.

"The event building up to the 2012 ISAF Youth Worlds will help to assert Ireland's growing reputation internationally as a venue for hosting international events."

Mitsubishi Motors have been a proud supporter of junior sailing in Ireland for the last seven years. Recently Ireland has had success as youth level with a win in the girls Laser World Championships, a top ten finish at the 2010 ISAF Youth Worlds and wins at the British National Optimist Championships. Mitsubishi Motors have played an important role in these successes by sponsoring the Youth Nationals.

'Mitsubishi vehicles are often found in sailing surrounds towing boats of all shapes and sizes around the Country," stated Frank A. Keane, Chairman of Mitsubishi Motors Ireland.

"As such, we have a great affinity with the sport and are particularly pleased to be able to support its development at grass roots level through our sponsorship of the ISA Youth Nationals'"

Three hundred sailors from around the country are expected to compete for national youth and junior pathway titles and the Mitsubishi coaching grant during the event.