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The 2021 Kona National Windsurfing Championships were hosted by the Malahide Yacht Club on Sunday, September 5. Under the direction of MYC Racing Officer Niall Gallagher, the sailors enjoyed a windward course in a 10-15 knot southeast wind over the Malahide Estuary.
In the final race, MYC’s Joe Galeckas dominated to claim the victory over RStGYC sailor and 2020 title holder Robbie Walker.
Another RStGYC sailor, Des Gibney, secured a well-deserved 3rd place while Damien Dion from NYC placed 4th overall and Miha Rothl 5th. The youth category was won by Mika Sacolax, who placed 11th overall.
After 4 races and before the last race of the day, Walker and Galeckas were tied on points and the title was up for grabs. A good start and an excellent upwind gave Galeckas a dominant position, and he was able to maintain his lead and claim the victory.
This is the 9th year that the Kona National Windsurfing Championships have been held, with winners receiving the Alan Harris Memorial Trophy. MYC sailors have dominated the event with 6 winners over the past 9 years. More recently, the RSGYC sailors challenged the MYC stronghold, winning the trophy 3 times.
The sailors thank and congratulate MYC for putting on a great event and Surfdock for their generous sponsorship.
A group of Kona windsurfers on a windward leg in a 15-20 knot southeast breeze over the Malahide Estuary
Roy Guinan is in the foreground. The Kona fleet on a downwind leg of the National Championships hosted by MYC.
Des Gibney of the RSGYC, with sail number 2677, finished 3rd overall at the Kona Nationals.
The fleet was strained by unstable wind conditions at the top mark near the village of Malahide.
NYC’s David Jullo placed 8th overall, competing in the event for the second time.
Winner Joe Galeckas from MYC, on his way to victory in the 5th race of the day
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