The John Minnis Youth Championships 2026 delivered a thrilling weekend of junior racing at Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club, with Ballyholme Yacht Club and Larne Grammar School claiming top honours across the main fleet and schools competitions. Over 130 young sailors hit the water for one of Northern Ireland’s flagship youth sailing events.
Eight fleets took part, with 11 clubs represented from Northern Ireland and 5 from the Republic of Ireland. Competitors ranged from first timers in the Regatta fleet all the way up to high performance 29ers and ILCA 7s, putting their skills to the test across a full spectrum of conditions over the course of the weekend.
This event has always been about more than just podium finishes. It’s about building confidence, forging friendships and nurturing a lifelong love of sailing among the next generation.
Racing was slightly delayed on day one due to blustery conditions across Belfast Lough, but once the fleets launched, everyone enjoyed a brilliant opening day of competition.
Ballyholme Yacht Club secured the overall club win with 65 points, followed by Strangford Lough Yacht Club in second and Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club in third. Donaghadee Sailing Club and County Antrim Yacht Club completed the top five.
In the schools competition, Larne Grammar School claimed first place, with Methodist College Belfast finishing second and Campbell College taking third. Sullivan Upper School and St Joseph’s Secondary School, Rush rounded out the top five.
Full results for the Main Fleet and Regatta Fleet have been published separately.
Organisers were proud to welcome title sponsor John Minnis, whose presence throughout the weekend and behind-the-scenes support played a vital role in making events like this a reality.
None of this would be possible without the dedicated army of volunteers who gave up their time, energy and expertise. Working as safety crews, race officials, mark layers and launch support, their commitment to young sailors is what keeps the sport thriving at grassroots level.
Whether it was a first race or a first medal, every sailor brought something special to the water this weekend. Congratulations to Ballyholme Yacht Club and Larne Grammar School, and well done to every competitor and club who took part. The spirit shown by these young sailors is something to be incredibly proud of, and it will be exciting to see where the future takes them.
