Newcastle’s Luke Northern Ireland eSailing champ

Newcastle’s Luke Northern Ireland eSailing champ

3 June 2020

A NEWCASTLE sailor has become a Northern Ireland champion — without taking to the water.

Luke McIlwaine was crowned Northern Ireland eSailing champion recently after beating the province’s best in a virtual regatta.

The RYA launched its eSailing Spring Club Championship at the start of April.

Around 80 sailors competed in their own club championships and eight club champions then competed in the NI final.

Nineteen year-old Luke showed his skill by three races and was crowned NI eSailing champion.

Luke went to compete in the UK final at the weekend and finished a highly creditable fifth out of the ten finalists.

Luke said: “There is definitely no lack of virtual regatta races to take part in, particularly involvement in the regular races that can be played every day has been excellent.

“These races have such a high skill level from all sailors and they are the perfect practice ground.

Lisa McCaffrey, RYANI Active Clubs co-ordinator said: “During lockdown eSailing was an opportunity for sailors and non-sailors to keep some sort of connection with their sport.

“It has been very popular and I think having these championships is a great way to bring our clubs together and keep members involved with the sport.”