Few names in Irish dinghy sailing carry the same warmth, respect, and longevity as Curly Morris. A lifelong GP14 sailor with roots at East Antrim Boat Club and a familiar face now at Newtownards Sailing Club, Curly has been at the heart of the GP14 community for more than six decades — as a sailor, mentor, organiser, and, most recently, International GP14 President.
At an age when most would have retired to the committee boat, Curly is still sheeting in and chasing shifts, reminding everyone that sailing truly is a sport for youth of all ages.
A GP14 for Life
Curly's relationship with the GP14 began back in the 1960s — and it's never really stopped. He's sailed through generations of boats, crews, and competitions, yet his enthusiasm remains as sharp as ever. Ask him about the class, and his eyes still light up like it's his first season.
"I've never been without a GP14 since 1960" — and few quotes could better capture his devotion to the class.
Now often seen racing at Newtownards Sailing Club alongside a thriving local fleet, Curly continues to lead by example, combining his trademark humour and competitiveness in every start sequence.
Still Fast, Still Fierce
Don't let the easy smile fool you — Curly Morris is still a serious racer. In 2019, just after celebrating his 75th birthday, he finished on the podium at a winter GP14 regatta in Skerries. The event, held in his honour, drew boats from across Ireland — a fitting tribute to a man who has shaped the sport for generations.
Fast forward to 2025, and he was back in the thick of it at the Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club Spring Series, debuting his brand-new Duffin-built GP14. Some sailors talk about "hanging up the tiller" — Curly just orders another boat.
Leadership on and off the Water
Curly's contribution to the GP14 class doesn't end at the finish line. He's been a driving force in class administration for decades — a steady hand in the growth and international reputation of the fleet. In 2019, he was elected President of the International GP14 Class Association, recognising his experience, diplomacy, and lifelong passion for developing the sport.
As an official sail measurer for the GP14 class, Curly ensures fairness and consistency across the fleet, applying the same meticulous attention to detail that defines his own racing. He's also a regular contributor to sailing tactic talks, sharing decades of wisdom with sailors eager to improve their racecraft and strategic thinking.
Under his leadership, the class continues to thrive — with strong fleets across Ireland, particularly around Newtownards, East Antrim, and the northern clubs he's helped energise through example and encouragement.
A Mentor and Motivator
At any regatta, you'll find Curly surrounded by sailors — offering tips, lending a hand, or spinning a story that usually ends with laughter and learning. He's known for giving as much time to the back of the fleet as the front, because for Curly, the real win is participation and progress.
"Get them sailing, get them smiling, and they'll stay"
And the GP14 class has stayed strong because of that ethos. From coaching at Newtownards SC training sessions to supporting class development events, Curly's mentorship has been a cornerstone of the GP14's enduring appeal.
A Legend Still Launching
When a sailor has a regatta held in his honour and still races in it, you know you're dealing with someone special. Curly's 75th-birthday race at Skerries SC summed up everything he stands for — good racing, good company, and great humour.
Now, whether it's a breezy Sunday at Newtownards SC or a major event up north, Curly is still there — rigging, launching, racing, and encouraging everyone else to do the same.
The Spirit of the Class
Curly Morris reminds us why the GP14 endures. It's not just a boat — it's a community. It's the laughter on the slipway, the friendly rivalry on the water, and the belief that you're never too old to learn something new.
As Curly proves every season, the best sailors don't just race boats — they build fleets, friendships, and futures.