Sam Laidlaw’s Royal Yacht Squadron Quarter Tonner BLT completed a perfect Cork Week, winning all eight races sailed in IRC Three to win the overall prize for Cork Week, the Kinsale Kettle. BLT was also awarded the Cork Week Trophy as the best overseas entry.
The Kinsale Kettle is far more than the trophy awarded to Cork Week’s overall winner. Steeped in the history and traditions of the Royal Cork Yacht Club, it represents one of the regatta’s most prestigious honours.
For Cork Week 2026, the silver Kettle was lifted by Sam Laidlaw and the crew of the Quarter Tonner BLT, whose outstanding performance in one of Cork Week’s most competitive classes earned them the overall title. Holding the magnificent trophy at the prize-giving, Laidlaw paid tribute to the racing, the organisers and the celebrated Cork welcome.
The racing has been extraordinary. Cork is known for competitive yet enjoyable racing, with tremendous hospitality. Laidlaw expressed gratitude towards his crew for their support throughout the week.
Baltimore RNLI rounded off a perfect Beaufort Cup scorecard by winning the final race of the series to lift the trophy for the first time. Brian Mathews’ Defence Forces SC team came from behind to take runner-up spot in the final race, with Simon Coveney’s Waterfront team third.
Chris Hampton’s Tango from Royal Brighton YC (AUS) completed an outstanding Cork Week to win the Etchells Open European Championship, counting six race victories from eight starts. Shaun Frohlich’s Exabyte was crowned 2026 Etchells European Champion, while Rob Goddard’s Rocketman completed the podium.
In IRC 0, Michael and Richard Evans’ Howth YC J/112e The Big Picture won with six race victories from eight starts. Nick Southward’s RYS/RHKYC J/122 Whiskey Jack finished second overall. In IRC 1, Barry Cunningham’s RCYC / RIYC J/109 Chimaera delivered a commanding performance with seven race victories.
In IRC 2, James Dwyer’s Royal Cork YC Half Tonner Swuzzlebubble dominated, winning seven of the eight races. Ronan Downing’s Half Tonner Miss Whiplash finished second. In IRC 3, Sam Laidlaw’s BLT was the winner followed by Anton Korshunov’s Howth YC Quarter Tonner Symmetry in second.
In the Sportsboat Fleet, Trevor D’Arcy’s Carrickfergus SC VX One Sheep Dawg completed a commanding Cork Week victory, winning seven races including the Harbour Race.
The special awards included Niall McPhillips’ Guapa receiving the Hugh Loane Trophy for outstanding presentation and appearance throughout Cork Week.
Chairman of Cork Week, Ross Deasy confirmed that the 2028 edition will mark the 50th anniversary of the renowned regatta and will be held in early July 2028.
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For more information about Cork Week: www.corkweek.ie
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