Spring Newsletter – Sutton Dinghy Club
Dear All,
Spring is in the air, and we are delighted to welcome everyone back to the club for what promises to be a fantastic season on the water.
As the days grow longer, our training programmes are kicking off, and the dinghy park is buzzing with activity. A huge thank you to our volunteers and staff for their work in preparing the boats, launching the safety RIBs, and ensuring everything is ready for a safe and enjoyable season.
We have a full calendar of racing and events ahead, starting with the Easter Egg Race on Easter Monday (6th of April) . Whether you are a seasoned racer or looking to get back on the water, we look forward to seeing you at the club.
Irish Sailing Awards – Congratulations
Congratulations to Jane Hunter and Mandy Kelly on their success at the Irish Sailing Awards.
- Jane was awarded Irish Sailing Instructor of the Year
- Mandy was nominated for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Award
We are delighted to see both recognised for their hard work and dedication to the sport and to Sutton Dinghy Club.
Events & Course News
We have a busy few weeks ahead at Sutton Dinghy Club.
Easter Sailing Course
Week starting Monday 30th March
Monday–Thursday | 10:00 – 15:00
Cost: €100
Suitable for sailors who have completed Start Sailing or higher.
Sessions will focus on refreshing skills and building confidence.
(Times may vary depending on weather)
Adult Sailing Courses
Each course runs across two sessions
Cost: €120 total
April 18 & 19 — 11am–2pm
April 23 & 24 — 5pm–8pm
May 11 & 12 — 6pm–9pm
May 16 & 17 — 11am–2pm
May 25 & 26 — 6pm–9pm
June 6 & 7 — 3pm–6pm
Suitable for:
- Beginners
- Returning sailors
- Parents of junior sailors
Times may change slightly depending on weather and tides.
Summer Courses Now Booking
Summer sailing courses are now available to book online.
Both Member Courses and Open Courses are filling quickly, so early booking is recommended.
Suitable for a wide range of ages and experience levels.
Ladies at Sea Evening
Friday 10th April
6pm – 8pm
Sutton Dinghy Club
€5 per person
A relaxed evening for women who sail, used to sail, or would like to try.
Includes:
- Time on the water
- BBQ & refreshments
- Sauna from Nomad Saunas
- Meet other sailors
Supported by Fingal Sports Office and Sport Ireland.
To book courses or events:
www.sdc.ie
info@sdc.ie
Visit the club office (9am–5pm, Mon–Fri)
Preparing Your Dinghy for the New Sailing Season
Preparing a dinghy for the new sailing season is a mix of safety, performance, and reliability. A systematic approach makes a big difference—especially after a winter lay-up.
1. Hull & Structure
Goal: Watertight, sound, and efficient
- Wash and inspect the hull inside and out
- Pay attention to centreboard case, chainplates, and transom fittings
- Make sure fittings are secure
Tip: Check carefully for freeze damage if the boat was stored outside.
2. Foils (Centreboard & Rudder)
- Inspect for damage on leading edges
- Ensure pivot bolts move freely
- Check retaining lines and rudder fittings
3. Rig & Spars
- Inspect mast and boom for cracks or corrosion
- Inspect shrouds and forestay for broken strands or rust
- Replace rigging if unsure
4. Running Rigging
- Check ropes for chafe or stiffness
- Replace worn halyards or control line
- Make sure lines are correctly led
5. Sails
- Check for tears or worn areas
- Inspect battens
- Repair small damage early
6. Safety Equipment
- Check buoyancy bags / tanks
- Painter / towing line
- Paddle
Replace anything that looks unreliable.
7. Trailer & Launching Gear
- Check tyres and spare
- Inspect bearings
8. First Sail Shakedown
Before racing, go for a short sail and check:
- Rig tension
- Control lines
- Leaks
Boat Covers & Securing Your Boat
Make sure your dinghy has a proper cover to protect it from weather and UV damage.
Please also secure boats to ground anchors where provided.
Buy & Sell Section – Boats & Gear for the Season
As the new sailing season gets underway, this is a great time to check the Buy & Sell section on the club website.
Members often use this page to sell or pass on dinghies, trailers, sails, and equipment, and it can be a very useful way to get set up for the season or to find a new home for boats that are no longer being used.
We recommend keeping an eye on the page over the next few weeks, as new items are often added at this time of year.
If you have a boat or sailing equipment you would like to advertise, please get in touch with the club office and we will be happy to post it for you.
Looking Ahead to a Great Season
All signs are pointing towards a busy and successful season at Sutton Dinghy Club, and we’re looking forward to seeing the dinghy park full, the slip busy, and plenty of activity both on and off the water.
Whether you’re racing, training, swimming, or just calling down for a chat. Call in for a coffee, enjoy the view across the bay, and catch up with friends — the club is at its best when there’s a crowd around.
At weekends we’re also delighted to have our friends from Nomad Saunas at SDC providing the perfect way to warm up after a swim in the still-bracing spring water. The combination of sea air, good company, and a sauna on the shore is hard to beat.
We encourage all members to get involved this season, whether on the water, helping out, or simply making the most of everything the club has to offer. And finally if you’re around come say hello to us at the Raheny St Patricks Day Parade, we’ll have the club jeep and dinghy in the procession!
Here’s to a great season ahead — see you at the club.