Thirteen boats slipped their berths at Kinsale Yacht Club on St Stephen’s Day, continuing a tradition that’s become as much a part of the Christmas calendar as turkey and mince pies. The annual Gunsmoke Bell Trophy Race, sponsored by Sam Cohen, offered crews the perfect excuse to escape the sofa and get back on the water, with conditions serving up a classic December day on Kinsale harbour.

Stephen Lysaght’s Elan 333 Reavra Too took the honours, crossing the line at 14:30:54 after just over an hour of racing.  Michael Carroll’s Chancer claimed second on corrected time, just 2 minutes and 12 seconds back, while James Peter Donegan’s J/109 Jalapeno rounded out the podium in third.

David Riome’s Valfreya finished fourth, with Anthony O’Brien’s White Tiger and Tom Roche’s Meridian securing fifth and sixth respectively.  Sam Cohen’s Gunsmoke II—the boat that lends its name to the trophy came home seventh, while the remaining fleet battled through to the finish, including Dominic Falvey’s GK 24 Swift, Martin Hargrove’s Deboah, James Lyon’s 1720 Malarkey, Denis Buckley’s Ailleacht and Anthony Scannell’s Hansemer.

By late afternoon, with boats secured and daylight fading, the clubhouse was buzzing.  The usual post-race atmosphere filled the room.  It’s what makes St Stephen’s Day racing at Kinsale Yacht Club special, good sailing followed by even better craic!

Another year, another successful Gunsmoke Bell.  A very special thank you to Sam Cohen for sponsoring the racing.

Race Results available -> here.  The Gunsmoke Bell Trophy Race closes Kinsale Yacht Club’s 2025 sailing calendar.  Subscribe to the 2026 Calendar by clicking -> here.