Optimist boars getting ready to sail in Dromineer.

Lough Derg Yacht Club hosts Training Week Regatta

The International Optimist Dinghy Association of Ireland (IODAI) held their Training Week Regatta at Lough Derg Yacht Club.

Image 1 of 2
Optimist boars getting ready to sail in Dromineer.

Image 2 of 2
Lough Derg Yacht Club race officer John Leech issues instructions

Published: Sun 9 Nov 2025, 10:59 AM

The Optimist, also known as Opti, is a small, single-handed sailing dinghy intended for use by young people up to the age of 15.

Over 100 sailors were in attendance. The weather was not great with strong winds on Saturday but that did not stop the sailors. This event helped sailors to progress in identifiable skill level groups with coaching support.

The fleets included Racing Regatta to the Junior Main Fleet (the Development Squad) or Senior Main Fleet (Senior Development Squad).

The event also allowed sailors to meet friends from all around the country. It was a challenging week for all but concluded with a Halloween festive party.