Tadg Riordan Brass Monkeys Spring Series 2026 at Howth Yacht Club - Overall
by Pat Connolly 6 Mar 12:49 GMT
23 February 2026
Howth Brass Monkeys Spring Series final race © Karolina Kernan
The Brass Monkey Spring Series, sponsored by Tadg Riordan Motors, drew last Sunday 1 March, delivering a superb day's sailing to round off the programme. Sunshine, a steady breeze and a full complement of boats on the start line made for a fitting finale.
The day was not without drama. Timballoo experienced a man overboard incident, swiftly and efficiently handled by Flexit, who recovered the swimmer. All ended well, with the crew member later seen enjoying the post-race lunch — proof, if ever it were needed, of seamanship and good spirits combined.
In Fleet 1, Helms Deep took line honours, with Malahide's Battling J finishing second and Chinook securing third place on the day.
Fleet 2 saw Pretty Polly claim victory, followed by Leeuwin in second and Mary Ellen in third.
Following racing, members gathered for the customary prize-giving lunch at Howth Yacht Club. HYC Commodore Kevin Monks joined sponsor Timmy Riordan and race organiser Pat Connolly for the prize-giving. Pretty Polly also received the Peter Huntley Memorial Trophy for achieving the greatest winning margin between first and second place across the fleet.
The series itself featured more than its fair share of memorable moments. Arcturus broke her boom during Race 4 yet gamely completed the following two races under headsail alone — a sporting effort that may well have cost a podium finish. In true Brass Monkey spirit, the organisers thoughtfully offered a length of wood and some cord for emergency repairs.
Shenanigans "misplaced" her propeller during the series, and a partial replacement was duly sourced — proof that ingenuity is alive and well on the waterfront.
Race 2, sailed in extremely light airs, provided further entertainment when the committee boat endured a nervous moment as a sizeable Pretty Polly appeared intent on close inspection, ultimately choosing to cross the line sideways rather than bow first. It was gently suggested that Stephen Mullaney might consider racing with L-plates next season.
Sincere thanks were extended to the many volunteers and staff who make these events possible. A wonderful series, full of competition, camaraderie and characteristic Brass Monkey good humour.
Series results
Photo gallery
Overall results for the series - Fleet 1:
1st - Paul Harrison, Helms Deep (HYC)
2nd - Brian Skehan, Chinook (HYC)
3rd - Battling J (Malahide)
Overall results for the series - Fleet 2:
1st - Chris Horrigan, Pretty Polly (Skerries)
2nd - Terry McCoy (Skerries)
3rd - Mary Ellen (HYC)