August 2012 saw Dublin host the international Tall Ships Races for the first time since 1998. As final host port for the 2012 Tall Ships Races, the event will saw many Tall Ships sail into the capital for a four day festival and celebration from 23rd-26th August 2012. Ships from Chile, Mexico, Argentina, the US, Italy and Norway charted their course to Dublin. The Tall Ships Races is an annual international event.
Over 5000 participants competed in these races and there were opportunities for young trainees from Dublin to be selected to participate in the races. The event offered young people a unique setting for developing skills like team building, leadership, multi-cultural understanding and friendship with participants from up to 50 countries taking part.