The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and the Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club have joined forces to host Australia’s top match racing events annually in January. This partnership aims to elevate the competition by bringing together elite match racing teams from around the world. The events, CYCA’s Helly Hansen International and RFBYC’s Warren Jones International, will be held consecutively, featuring World Sailing Grade 2 status for participants under 25.
Through this collaboration, the two esteemed yacht clubs plan to enhance the caliber of the competition, utilizing CYCA’s fleet of Elliott 7m keelboats and Swan River Sailing’s Foundation 36 yachts. The synergy between the clubs is expected to attract top-tier match racing talent to these prestigious events.
Commenting on the partnership, CYCA Commodore Sam Haynes expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the goal of creating a successful series that showcases some of the world’s best match racing teams. The Helly Hansen International, hosted by CYCA, is set to take place on Sydney Harbour, known for hosting renowned sailing events like the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race and the Match Racing World Championships.
The event will culminate in the presentation of the ‘Joy Ride’ Perpetual Trophy, honoring Gary McPike’s contributions to match racing and the CYCA Youth Sailing Academy. The competition will feature the use of Elliott 7m keelboats, adding an exciting element to the race.
Following the Helly Hansen International, the Warren Jones International, hosted by RFBYC, will grace Freshwater Bay in Perth. This event holds significant historical value, with the trophy being a testament to Australia II’s triumph in the America’s Cup. The competition, featuring Foundation 36 yachts, promises thrilling match racing action for both male and female crews.
Andy Fethers, RFBYC’s Chief Executive Officer and Warren Jones Committee Member, lauded the push for excellence in match racing events by the Warren Jones and Helly Hansen International. The expectation is that these regattas will attract top-notch competitors to both Sydney and Perth, offering a unique opportunity for international sailors to experience the best of Australian racing.
Notably, the series will coincide with Australia Day celebrations in Perth, providing participants with a vibrant cultural experience. Competitors are encouraged to review the Notice of Race for both events on the respective club websites and express their interest in competing early.
In the realm of match racing, events like the Detroit Cup and Ceilidh Cup have also showcased the prowess of elite sailors from around the globe. The resurgence of the World Sailing Nations Cup after a hiatus underscores the enduring appeal of match racing as a thrilling and competitive sailing discipline.
As the sailing community eagerly anticipates the upcoming match racing events, the partnership between CYCA and RFBYC sets a new benchmark for collaboration in hosting premier regattas. The synergy between these two esteemed clubs promises a thrilling showcase of talent and sportsmanship on the shimmering waters of Sydney Harbour and Freshwater Bay.
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