Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) is focussed on celebrating International Women’s Day at the 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta today - and there is plenty to celebrate here with so many women involved out racing, on start crews, driving media boats, taking photos, chairing the Protest Committee and taking care of administrative work. 

MHYC Sailing Manager, David Staley, who spends time ashore and on the water in his role, is a vocal supporter of women in the sailing ranks. He said this morning, “There are so many talented female sailors in Australia and at our event, along with those officiating and in administration roles. International Women’s Day is definitely something we enjoy celebrating each year at the regatta.

Lisa Callaghan is the skipper of Mondo, which she owns with Stephen Teudt. She is also President of the Sydney 38 class and is here aiming to win the Sydney 38 NSW Championship and is currently in third place.

Mondo placed second to Conspiracy in the last NSW Championship, but Callaghan has her mind set on claiming the title for her team this year. In December she skippered Mondo to win the Sydney 38 Division and placed second in IRC Division 4 of the Rolex Sydney Hobart, so the Mondo crew is ready.

Catherine Thornton-Rofe, who works in Sailing Administration at MHYC is busy also skippering her J/24 Kaotic at the regatta. She took out top female helm in January’s J/24 Hodges Sandringham Australian Championship 2026 in Melbourne. has two Sydney Hobarts to her credit and holds the position of Vice Commodore at Manly Yacht Club, where she sometimes races with Callaghan.

Stephanie Cook is the co-owner of the Summit King 40, Jambo, racing in Performance Spinnaker Division 1. Cook is one of the mainstays of the regatta and has other women aboard, as does the crew of their competition, including on She’s the Culprit. Women are spread across the different classes and divisions this year, which would not have been the case as recently as 10 years ago.

Ali Braden is flying under the radar at the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, driving a media boat for Margaret Fraser-Martin, one of the event photographers. “I like doing this (driving), because I can get up close to the racing and see it from a different perspective,” she says.

At 18, Braden was the youngest female sailor to contest the 80^th Sydney Hobart in December, racing on Pacific Road Xanthus, which placed fourth in Division 3. She plans to continue on with offshore racing, but her main game is the Olympic class 49erFX skiff.

Ambitious Braden, who is also a sailing coach and part time restaurant waitress, says “International Women’s Day is to celebrate the achievements of all woman around the world. In sailing there are a lot of women to celebrate.” 

Julie Hodder, a past Commodore of MHYC, is a volunteer on the MHYC start boat this weekend. Hodder, a respected offshore sailor with 13 Sydney Hobarts and myriad other ocean and Harbour races behind her, has raced as an owner and as navigator for others, with great results to her name.

In this 21^st year of the regatta, Hodder says of International Women’s Day, “The day is good for recognising women and their achievements. I looked back at my photo page from five years ago today –  at a picture of all the women taken on the beach here at the Club. It makes me proud to see how far they’ve come.

“Looking out from the start boat yesterday, I was amazed to see the amount of younger women out on the water – it felt good to see that.”

Hodder continued: “After sailing yesterday afternoon, I was talking to some of the younger women who raced and they agreed they were celebrating all those women who came before them and opened up the so many opportunities that have come their way and made life easier for them.”

Pittwater’s well-known sailing sisters, Clare and Juliet Costanzo, are racing – on separate boats. Claire is on the Botin/Carkeek GP42, Ambition, owned by Chris Dare, a Victorian who now lives in Tasmania. It’s the same boat she did the 80^th Sydney Hobart on – her fourth. Ambition is leading both Open Division 1 and the Super 40 class after today’s three windward/leewards.

Juliet is sailing on the VX-One One Design, No Excuses, which put to bed 3-3-4 results on windward/leeward courses yesterday and is just outside the money going into today’s final races. She did her fourth Sydney Hobart in December on Richard Hudson’s Pretty Woman. The sisters are also decorated match racers and their futures are bright.

Kathy Johnston, or ‘KJ’ as she is known at MHYC where she has worked for the past five years where she is an appreciated team player. “I work in the Sailing Office, on reception. I’m a jack of all trades,” says Johnston who joined the Club as a member in 1989.

In her roles, Johnston has seen a lot of women come through the doors of the Club over the years and says, “International Women’s Day is a fabulous initiative that we celebrate it at the regatta every year.” 

There are so many other women involved in the regatta, volunteering in a plethora of roles. Erica Kirby is a national judge and Chair of the Protest Committee and there are a number of women on start boats such as Rosemary Merrington, a dedicated fixture at many sailing events around Australia.

Merrington is in the team on Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club start boat running races for the Super 30 Cup, Super 40, Fareast 28R Australian Championship and International J/24s on Course Area E. On Course B, is another regular, Robyn Tames, the Course Race Officer for RANSA, looking after Performance Class Spinnaker Divisions 1 and 2.

Ladies, today we recognise and celebrate you all.

For full results, photos and more, please visit: www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

The 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta got away in a fluky light nor ‘easterly breeze as the event celebrates turning 21 and while there were some of the usual suspects at the top of the scoreboards at the Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) hosted event, it was not always the case, as conditions played havoc and bamboozled some.

Fareast 28R Australian Championship

The bridesmaid more often than her owners would like; Conrad Johnston has sailed Wildling 3 into the lead of the Fareast 28R Australian Championship after three wind/ward leeward races on the Harbour. A pair of wins accompanied by a second place puts Wildling 3 three points ahead of Paul Bradley’s Cool Runnings and Roger Gunn’s The Menace, which are on equal points.

Johnston and co-owner Steve Byrne would dearly love to walk away the winner tomorrow. Byrne said this afternoon, “It was a good day. A little light, but the breeze was a little better than we expected, just a little fluky. They had to adjust the top mark after the first race, but after that, it was consistent and we had a lovely day out.”

Byrne conceded, “It will be a different day tomorrow, with a stronger breeze from the south. We will have to wait and see…

“It was great to see The Menace crew come up from Melbourne,” Byrne said. “I would love to win every race, but it’s great to see Cool Runnings win one (Race 3) after all the work they’ve done.”

Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Championship

No surprise to see reigning champion Conspiracy (David Hudson/Peter Byford) leading the  Sydney-Design NSW Championship. Team Conspiracy finished the day with two wins and a second for a five-point advantage over Peter Sorensen’s Advanced Philosophy, after the latter won the opening race. The Lisa Callaghan skippered Mondo is third, seven points off the lead.

The class did three windward/leeward offshore races, though the starts and finishes were in the Harbour. The first race was long and likely painful for some in the conditions. Tomorrow they will repeat the performance, except  on the Harbour, which may may mix things up.

Open Class

In Division 1, a trio of windward/leewards were just what the doctor ordered for Tasmanian Botin Carkeek GP42, Ambition, owned by Chris Dare. The former Victorian scored 3-1-1 results to take the lead from Ross Hennessy’s Ker 40 Mk3, Condor  and Peter White’s JV Pac 52, First Light, winner of the opening race.

“Very tricky, up and down with big shifts, wasn’t an easy day,” said Dare, who is originally from Victoria but moved to Tasmania. We started off Sow and Pigs and the racing was close from the start. If you don’t get off the start well and sail down the track well, you’re in trouble.”

Sailing with Dare are his son, Lockie, Dare’s partner Claire Cunningham, Clare Costanzo and Charlie Goodfellow among others – all are experienced offshore and inshore sailors. “It’s a bit different to my full offshore crew, this one is more of an inshore crew. is one more inshore, Dare said.

“We didn’t have a great start in the first race, which is reflected in our third place, but we were good after that. Condor is pretty tidy on the water and the 52 (First Light) is sailing well too.” The trio is separated by three points, so it’s bound to come down to the wire tomorrow.

Division 2 went the way of Matt Wilkinson’s Farr 30, Foreign Affair, after scoring third and two bullets. Bob Cox’s DK46, Nine Dragons (won the opening race) and David Hamilton’s Far 40 Seeking Alpha, are three and four points behind Foreign Affair respectively.

“I thought we started the regatta well, but you don’t know till you get back to the Club,” said  Wilkinson who has produced the goods at this regatta in the past.

“Masterful crew work,” he said of his crew that includes wife Lisa on mainsheet and their son, Will Wilkinson, on tactics, 

We’re the smallest boat, so you spend so much time trying to get clear air. The first race we had a terrible wineglass in the kite. It went up with shocking tangle. We could’ve  have won if not for that.”

Sailing in mostly 7-8  knots, Wilkinson said, “the most we saw was 11 knots, but we love that sort of stuff. Tomorrow could be a whole different ball game,” he said, referring to the forecast big southerly with rain attached.

Super 40s

Three windward/leeward races on the Harbour for the Super 40s, whose division is folded into Division 1 of the Open fleet. Ambition did the job again, with 1-3-1 results to lead Edward Cox’s Ker 40, Minerva, by three points and Ross Hennessy’s Condor by five points. Condor, mainly seen in the winner’s spot on the podium, will have a target on her back – she could well turn the scores in her favour in tomorrow’s expected southerly.

Super 30s

Three windward/leeward races on the Harbour for the Super 30s and Peter Girdis came out on top with his Mini AMC, Blue Peter. The 3-4-3 scoreline has Girdis ahead of the Guy Irwin skippered Farr 30, Clewless and Peter Woodhead’s Melges 32, XC3SS.

 “We manage to cobble it together every now and again,” Girdis said with a laugh. “Conditions were variable and shifty. It was hard for us and the committee, who did a good job. Eventually it all came together. It was great to have lots of racing and good racing – but the breeze was barely enough to keep the spinnaker full.”  

While Girdis enjoys having a tussle with Clewless, “We’re just getting to know the rest of our competition. It’s close though - and we love it,” he said.

Girdis is not taking his result for granted: “Tomorrow’s another day with different conditions. We’ve identified areas where we can improve, but I guess everyone else has too,” he ended.

VX-One One Design

The VX-One’s undertook three windward/leeward races on the Harbour. Top of the leaderboard on Day 1 is Jervis Tilly’s VeXatious. Tilly has been in the winner’s circle in this class before and he will be hard to beat after firing off three bullets today. In second is Gary Cassidy’s Let’s Dance, which is just one point ahead of Dave Hyde’s Rapture.

 Historic 18s

The ‘Histericals’ as they are colloquially known, sailed their usual course with a pursuit start shortly after 2.15pm near Kuraba Point on the Harbour. The eight boats started in an 8-10 knot easterly – not the preferred strength for these heavy old boats to get them romping, but it was a beautiful sunny day, so who can complain?

Certainly not Jerry Tickner, skipper of The Mistake, which finished in the top spot today. The Mistake beat Yendys (Michael van Stom) by 10 seconds shy of four minutes. Abadare (Michael Chapman) was third.

“It was fantastic! Everything went well. We didn’t make any stuff ups,” a thrilled Tickner said. “We kissed the lighthouse twice. It was just a good day out. The forecast did what it said it would – the breeze died in the end with a puff in the middle. We ‘re all happy on board. It was great seeing all the moderns (18s racing in the JJ Giltinan) - a mix and match of 18s.”

For full results, photos and and more, please visit: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

With thanks to our Principal Partner Nautilus Marine Insurance, Major Sponsor Yachting Holidays/Sunsail and event sponsors Zhik and Kieser, there are great prizes available for all those who place on the podium of the Nautilus Marine Insurance 2026 Sydney Harbour Regatta. 

Along with a pair of etched stemless wine glasses, entrants placing 1^st, 2^nd or 3^rd will receive a Zhik clothing voucher. Each boat placing 1st, 2nd and 3rd in any Class/Division where six (6) or more entries have been received, and who register and have a representative in attendance at the prizegiving, are eligible for some magnificent grand prizes.

First Place Draw – Yachting Holidays Sunsail Croatia or Greek Islands Charter

Each First Place winner in each eligible Class or Division, upon registration and check in, shall be eligible for one (1) entry into a draw to win:

- A luxury bareboat yacht charter with Sunsail in either Greece or Croatia aboard a Dufour 41.3 Premier three cabin monohull or equivalent. The charter is for 7 days during April to June and September to October in 2026 or 2027.

Second Place Draw – Supercars Track Day / Nautilus Marine Insurance

Each Second Place getter in each eligible Class or Division, upon registration and check in, shall be eligible for one (1) entry into a draw to win:

- Supercar Track Day for two persons at the Bathurst 1000.  Includes two General Admission tickets, money-can’t-buy pit tour and grid walk access. Courtesy of the Steadfast Group.

- Nautilus Marine Insurance Voucher (value $1,000).

Third Place Draw – Reef View Hotel / Kieser

Each Third Place getter in each eligible Class or Division, upon registration and check in, shall be eligible for one (1) entry into a draw to win:

- Two nights’ Hamilton Island Accommodation for two persons at the Reef View Hotel including breakfast daily, return Hamilton Island airport/marina to hotel transfers, use of complimentary island shuttle service and unlimited use of catamarans, windsurfers, kayaks, stand up paddleboards and snorkelling equipment. Courtesy of Nautilus Marine Insurance and Hamilton Island.

- An initial consultation and three-month Kieser Core Membership. Kieser provides physiotherapy-led strength training using Swiss-engineered machines that isolate and target specific muscle groups, measure strength and safely support the rebuild of your muscles - helping you move better and enjoy an active life. Kieser clinics are located at Mosman, Pymble and Cammeray.

To read the Notice to Competitors with the Prize Draw Terms & Conditions – click here   https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au/images/2026/NTC_SHR_2026-03-06-1GrandPrizeDraw.pdf

Regatta Crew Prize

Yachting Holidays, your Australian booking agent for Sunsail worldwide charters, are also supporting the Regatta Crew Prize Draw - Two Zhik OFS600 offshore cruising jackets. The competition is open to registered skippers and participating crew members of each yacht entered in the 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta. To be in the draw, participants must enter their details before 12 noon on Sunday 8 March 2026 by scanning the QR code on the Crew Prize Draw flyer – click here  

The weekend of 7 and 8 March is coming up quickly, so for those who are yet to enter the 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, the early entry fee has been extended to 3 March, when entries close, so you have one week if you want to be part of the 21st birthday celebrations - and for those who finish top three, a pool of great prizes awaits.

For the first time, the Etchells Corinthian Championship will be held at the Regatta, with the class sailing both days instead of the usual one. Some will arrive fresh from competing at the Etchells NSW Championship held at Gosford Sailing Club earlier this month.

“We are making the Championship a focus for Corinthian sailors at Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron. We’re trying to establish this as an ongoing event at the Regatta and encouraging all to enter. It is gaining momentum - there’s a bit of a buzz around it,” said Etchells Sydney Fleet Captain, Michael Stovin-Bradford, who will be competing.

Those zeroing in on the Super 30 division for the Super 30 Cup are warming to the theme. The top two will resume their stoush of last year; David Ingram/Alex Salmon’s Roger That, a Melges 24 and Very Tasty, a Hick 30 entered by Ed Tacey. The latter has a score to settle after starting strongly, posting three bullets on Day 1 last year, but Roger That turned that around on Day 2, usurping her opposition for the title.

David Ingram is ready for another round. “We’ve been racing the Super 30s all season, so we have a good idea who the usual suspects are and hopefully we scared Very Tasty off last year,” he said laughing.

Very Tasty, undaunted, is returning in hopes of toppling the reigning champ.

“We hope the Melges 32 comes (Peter Woodhead with XC3SS is entered), they’re very good and will be hard to beat. They’re definitely a bigger boat in the fleet and we’re the smallest. We have to think more tactically than some of the bigger ones,” Ingram said, adding, ”It’s nice to see when you’re beating bigger boats on the water.”

Ingram ends, “It’s always fun doing the windward/leewards. We go better in light and planing weather. We can’t wait!”

Performance Spinnaker class entries are closing in on 40, with three divisions established already, such is the interest. Everything design-wise from Farr 36 to J boats, Reichel/Pugh, Nelson/Marek, Dufour, Beneteau, Jeanneau and everything in between. There is some Aussie flavour thrown in as well with Hick, King, Joubert and Sydney Yachts designs.

And there are some famous names and Sydney Hobart winners among the Aussie designs. Jim Dunstan, winner of the 1981 Hobart, has entered the yacht that got him there – Zeus II, a Currawong 30 designed by Peter Joubert, and one of the two smallest yachts to win the race.

The other is David Kellett, skipper of Charles Curran’s Sydney 60, Sydney, designed by Sydney Yachts. Coincidentally, as Sailing Master for Bernard Lewis, Kellett took line honours on the maxi Vengeance in 1981, the same year Dunstan won the race overall. In 1987 - and with Lewis again – he went one better, taking the double of line and overall win with Sovereign.

“Jim and I have been friends all of those years - and we’re two old blokes still out there doing it. It shows what a wonderful sport it is,” said Kellett, who over many years continues to contribute to the sport ashore, filling roles such as Vice President of World Sailing, President of Australian Sailing and more, resulting in his receiving an AM in 2002.

Kellett has been at the helm of Sydney for MHYC’s signature event for a few years. He says: “I think the Regatta is a terrific occasion. All credit to Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC), they’ve run it for a long time. It’s great to get a weekend of good races, you get four races in, so it’s a bit different for the crews.”

A Super 40 division is well on the way, with Revolver (Michael Ritchie) and Condor (Ross Hennessy) the top two from Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s Pittwater Regatta in February expected to reignite their rivalry. Condor has won the division on Sydney Harbour the past two years. Can Revolver or any others beat him? That remains to be seen.

Serious competition is expected from the Adams 10s again. No Friends (Geoff Charters)  and Contentious (Brian Lees) are early contenders.

And then there are all the other classes and divisions that make this the largest keelboat regatta in NSW, including and Australian and two NSW class Championships.

Grand Prizes

As if the competition isn’t enough, there are some fabulous grand prizes to be won. All boats placing first, second and third in any class or division, where six or more entries have been received, are eligible to win, provided they register a representative and attend the Official Presentation on Monday, 9 March.

Final details of the Grand Prizes will be announced in a Notice to Competitors closer to the event, but will include the draw of a Yachting Holidays Sunsail Greek Islands or Croatia Bareboat Charter for boats placing  first in eligible divisions, plus a Steadfast Insurance Supercars Bathurst 1000 Track Day with Pit Tour and Starting Grid access for two people for boats placing second.  

Yachting Holidays will also be providing Zhik apparel lucky draw for crew prizes (Male and Female) with entry open to all competitors.

The 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta doesn’t end with the racing, the shoreside fun adds another layer, with a sausage sizzle, drinks and music to dance the night away to on the sands in front of the Club on both evenings following racing.

Entries close at 23.59 hours on Tuesday 3 March 2026 – so you have one week. After ‘Close of Entries’, additional entries shall be made in writing and may only be accepted at the discretion of the Organising Authority, so enter now.

To enter and for Notice of Race, please visit www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

The 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, to be held over the weekend of 7 and 8 March is sure to be a memorable one, not only is the annual event turning 21, but it is also hosting three major class championships.

Middle Harbour Yacht Club Commodore, Rob Aldis said, “At this early stage, entries are looking healthy across the board and we’re looking forward to hosting an Australian and two NSW Championships’ in our 21^st year.”

Quick on the draw with their entries for the Sydney 38 NSW Championship were Advanced Philosophy (Peter Sorensen), Gusto (Colin Gunn/Jack Stening), Kaizen (Michael Liang) and Mondo (Lisa Callaghan/Stephen Teudt), all keen to topple the current champion, Conspiracy (David Hudson/Peter Byford).

Callaghan, the Sydney 38 class president, is on a high. Mondo finished runner-up to Conspiracy at the last NSW Championship and placed second in Division 4 and won the Sydney 38 Division in the 2025 Sydney Hobart.

In their efforts to beat Conspiracy and an improving fleet, Callaghan said, “We’ve decided to take our offshore crew - a winning combination - and bring them inshore. It’s going to be very hard to knock off Conspiracy.

“Stephen, who puts so much effort into preparing the boat, helmed at the last Championship. I’m helming this time. This year I’m hungrier than ever, not only to dominate offshore, but inshore as well. This time (at the SHR) we have some offshore races in the mix - and that’s my speciality. I’m training five times a week,” the determined yachtswoman said.

“Both Conspiracy and Advanced Philosophy will be hard to beat. Having said that, we’ve seen newer owners to the class coming up in the fleet, so I think this will be one of the closest states we had in recent times.

Callaghan finished, “I’m working hard, as Class President, to see at least 12 yachts compete this year. I’m really proud to see that while other classes are in decline, our class is actually in resurgence,”

The SHR is also hosting the Fareast 28R Australian Championship. Beckoning others to enter are Wildling 3 (Conrad Johnston), Aetos III (Christian Charalambous) and Cool Runnings (Paul Bradley/Kevin Bloor). The trio is eager to take on all-comers for the title.

In the 2024 and 2025 Championships at the SHR, Wildling 3 finished third and second respectively. Johnston is focussed on taking a step up to the podium’s top spot in 2026.

“We seem to go up and down in second and third, but we haven’t made it a win yet. “I hope we might finally get the win this year,” Johnston said.

Johnston is in the throes of “trying to rustle up as many competitors as I can,” he said. “There are people coming up from Melbourne on The Menace – and that’s great – so the fleet is strong in terms of the interest,” he says of the Championship that will be sailed in conjunction with the Super 30s Cup.

Johnston is a big fan of the SHR: “It’s great, the regatta, because we have the windward/leewards – short and sharp They (race officials) always put us in the right spot and set great courses. It’s very professionally run.”

The Cavalier 28 NSW Championship early birds are Craig Mitchell’s Centaurus, Peter Donnelly’s Flying Circus and Greg Purcell’s Scuttlebutt.

Centaurus won the 2025 Championship on scratch, with Scuttlebutt third. U2 (Andrew McPherson) took out the main event under the class PHS handicap system from Centaurus.

“Hopefully there’ll be six to eight of us at the regatta. At the moment, Soshana (Jonathan Rosenberg) and Scuttlebutt are the ones to beat, but some of the boats bring in better crews for the Championship, so that can change things…,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell has fond memories of the event: “We’ve loved the Sydney Harbour Regatta in the past. We haven’t been for a little while now for our Championship, but we’re back and looking forward to it. It’s a nice time of year – not too windy and not too light.”

Competitors in the Performance Class divisions have a field day, as they boast far more entries than any other division. One of those that come back for more on a regular basis is She’s the Culprit from Newcastle.

Owned by the Culprit syndicate, Glen ‘Cyril’ Picasso and his fellow owners recently updated to a DK43 and made their debut at the 80^th Sydney Hobart. They will arrive in force: “There’ll probably be five or six that did the Hobart with us, along with some of the other regular crew. I try to run a happy boat – we like to win – but the focus is that we are still friends when we get off the boat.” 

The Novocastrians head south frequently and Cyril says, “We normally do the Sydney Harbour Regatta, it’s a good social weekend for us.”

Cyril says, “We like sailing against boats from all different areas and love sailing on flat water  - different to offshore at Newcastle. It’s a good a social atmosphere around the Club (MHYC) after racing. On the Sunday, I get up early and run to Manly and back, which I love doing. I sneak away and leave the partying to the rest of the crew!”

To celebrate the Regatta turning 21, major sponsor Yachting Holidays, Australian booking agent for Sunsail, is offering one lucky division winner at the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta a luxury bareboat charter in the Greek Islands or Croatia and is providing Zhik apparel for the crew prizes.

Supporting sponsors are Zhik and Kieser. Zhik is donating prize vouchers for each of the divisional placegetters and apparel for the Female Helm prize, while Kieser is contributing to one of the Grand Prizes – all will be revealed shortly!

Entries close at 23.59 hours on Tuesday 3 March 2026. After ‘Close of Entries’, additional entries shall be made in writing and may only be accepted at the discretion of the Organising Authority, so enter now.

To enter and for Notice of Race, please visit: www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Everyone loves a good 21^st birthday bash, so get set to join in by entering the 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, as the event celebrates its 21^st anniversary on the weekend of 7 and 8 March.

Online entry is open and the Notice of Race online for the ‘21^st’ of the largest keelboat regatta in NSW that continues to attract boats from NSW and interstate for the first of the autumn regattas.

Adding to the celebrations, Ian Box, Special Events Chair for organiser Middle Harbour Yacht Club, says, “We welcome Nautilus Marine Insurance for a fourth year as Naming Rights Partner for the Sydney Harbour Regatta.

“Our partnership with Nautilus Marine continues to strengthen and is highly regarded and valued.”

Box added, “Yachting Holidays, the Australian booking agent for Sunsail, has come on board as a major sponsor, offering the opportunity for one lucky competitor to sail the Greek Islands, while Zhik and Kieser continue their valued support of the event.”

A new addition in 2026 is the Super Cruiser Racer Group, opening the door for the likes of Caol Ila (Walter Carpenter’s Marten 67), Odin (Matthew Hanning’s Beneteau First 53), Xanthus (Matthew Fifield’s X-55), Triton (David Gotze’s Lyons/Cawse 60), Antipodes (Geoff Hill’s Santa Cruz 72), Sydney (Charles Curran’s Murray 60) and Shearwater (Guido Belgiorno-Nettis’ striking Frers 57).

Racing for the Super Cruiser Racers has been tailored to suit, taking in two inshore-offshore races on the first day and to finish off on Sunday, an offshore passage race will be held in conjunction with the Super 50 (TP52) fleet.

As it has in the past at this regatta, the Sydney 38 class will contest its NSW Championship and will experience quality racing via two offshore windward/leeward races on the opening day and three inshore windward/leewards on the Sunday. It will come down to the best performed in the two different environs.

David Hudson and Peter Byford’s Conspiracy has held sway in the class for some years, but was beaten for the 2024 NSW Championship by Challenge, only to bounce back to claim the 2025 title from Mondo and Colin Gunn/Jack Stening’s Gusto.

Among those who continue to make inroads is Lisa Callaghan and Stephen Teudt’s Mondo, which recently topped the S38 One-Design class and placed second in Division 4 of the 2025 Rolex Sydney Hobart. Callaghan is hungry to capitalise on that result.

The annual regatta will also incorporate the Fareast 28R Australian Championships, the Cavalier 28 NSW Championships and the Super 30 Cup (Melges 32, Farr 30 etc).

Nobody is left out, as there are the One-Design classes in the Etchells, J/70, J/24, Adams 10, VX-One and Super 40 (MC38s and others of that ilk), an Open Class (IRC and ORC), Performance Class (Spinnaker and Non-Spinnaker divisions), Classic Keelboats and the Historic 18’ Skiffs which race on Saturday only.

A mammoth undertaking, due to its large number, classes and divisions at the regatta will be split to race on seven course areas, courtesy of MHYC and eight supporting clubs, overseen again by Principal Race Officer, Denis Thompson accompanied by volunteers from around NSW.           

Rob Aldis, Commodore of MHYC says, “We expect around 180 boats racing in 17 divisions across seven course areas on Sydney Harbour and offshore in the vicinity of Sydney Heads.

“It will be exciting for those sailing and for the spectators on the water and onshore,” he promises.

Socially after racing each day, Aldis says, “This year’s event is guaranteed to be a wonderful festival of fun. With a beach party planned on Saturday evening, everyone will be well entertained! It’s a must do event to be noted in your social calendar.”

Entries close at 23.59 hours on Tuesday 3 March 2026. After ‘Close of Entries’, any additional entries shall be made in writing and may only be accepted at the discretion of the Organising Authority, so enter now.

To enter and for Notice of Race, please visit: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

On behalf of the Middle Harbour Yacht Club, it is my great pleasure to invite you to participate in the 2026 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, this being the 21st Anniversary of this prestigious regatta.
 
Sydney Harbour plays host to some of the most competitive and high-profile yacht racing regattas in Australia and the Sydney Harbour Regatta has constantly attracted a diversity of participating boats and classes.
 
Originally established as the lead event for Sydney Harbour Week, the Sydney Harbour Regatta has rightly earned its reputation as Sydney Harbour's 'Sailing Spectacular', providing a perfect opportunity for us all to display to spectators the thrill and excitement that our sport offers.
 
Shoreside, this year’s event is guaranteed to be a wonderful festival of fun. With a beach party on Saturday evening, everyone will be well entertained!  A must do event to be noted in your social calendar.
 
The Notice of Race is available and online entry is now open on the Regatta Website.
 
I am confident you will enjoy this year’s event and look forward to seeing you on the water and afterward on the Club's beach!
 
Rob Aldis
Commodore, MHYC

Another late start as a light sea breeze fought the land breeze, making it hard on competitors and race officers alike earlier on at the Nautilus Marine Sydney Harbour Regatta, but eventually everyone settled in and new champions and winners were declared late in the day in a great weekend of sailing celebrating the event’s 20^th edition.

Race officers had to be mindful of what was right for competitors on their course areas in an unstable light air earlier on, while taking into account other nearby courses across the 13 classes and multiple divisions being raced at the Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) hosted event. However, patience paid and the breeze built nicely on the Harbour courses with some reporting up to 20 knots, a far cry from yesterday’s light air.

Classic Yachts

Gordon Ingate, a living legend of sailing, looked likely to win the Classic Yachts division with Jasnar, but the Olympic, America’s Cup and world championship winning sailor withdrew from Race 3 having sailed the wrong course. That left Annie Lawrence’s Solveig in the box seat for the overall win.

In the past, Solveig took both line and overall honours in two separate Sydney Hobarts, with original owners and famous brothers, Trygve and Magnus Halvorsen. David Salter placed third with his Swanson designed Mr Christian.

Far East 28R One Design Australian Championship

Well-named Firecracker, Scott Lawson’s defending champion, stormed home with five bullets from six windward/leeward races on Sydney Harbour this weekend to emphatically claim the Australian Championship.

There was mainly seconds in the finishes and Wildling 3 (Conrad Johnston and Steve Byrne) hung on to claim second overall. Julian Todd’s Sweeney-Todd placed third.

“Yesterday we basically got the best starts we could, because you can control the race from the front if you do that,” Lawson explained. Dolly Divola (former gun 18ft skiff sailor) was doing tactics,” said Lawson, whose 16ft skiff sailing son, Harry, flew in for the event.

“Today was tough. We’re a light crew, so we decided to try and stick around the lead boats and take advantage downwind. The Firecracker crew is very good at shifts and operating a skiff type boat.

“Sparrow was so good, but unfortunately broke the rudder on one of the last downwinds today. Ludde Ingvall (an eminent ocean racer) was aboard with Peter Higgins again and Peter has his two sons sailing with him.”

Lawson added, “The main reason we succeeded today was because we were conservative in all our manoeuvres in the heavy breeze today and avoided making mistakes in the gybes, sets and drops. We are very happy – the guys did a great job, letting me concentrate on steering - I’m very lucky. Credit to them they made us look good.”

Dragon NSW Championship

Liquidity cleaned up to win the Dragon NSW Championship after Richard Franklin and crew scored five wins from six races. Peter Crane’s Threenabit took second and Chris Maclean’s Ascalon placed third.

Super 30s

The Tasty syndicate’s Hick 30, Very Tasty, led coming into the day with three straight wins yesterday, but a sixth place in today’s opener left the crew, led by Al Chase, vulnerable with only a two-point advantage over two aggressors, Ophir and Roger That. It was David Ingram and Alex Salmon’s Roger That that took full advantage, posting 2-1 results to eat and beat Very Tasty by two points. Bruce Tavener’s Ophir was third. 

“We had a great day. We did 18 knots downwind in the last race. We’re the smallest boat in the fleet and we were overtaking bigger boats,” Ingram surmised.

“When we started sailing the Super 30s two or three years ago, we were just making up the numbers, but we’ve been improving. We go well in the light air but struggle a bit in bigger breeze. We get thrown around a bit, so changing gears is what we did I guess.”

Photos by Marg Fraser-Martin

J/70s

Six windward/leewards over two days and it was Steven Proud’s Swish that topped the scoreboard with four bullets in his tally. Kim Ketelbey placed second overall in this tough fleet. She won the two races that Swish didn’t. Miles McLennan’s Jedi took the final podium spot.

“J/70s are the best thing I’ve done in sailing,” said Proud who has sailed a variety of classes. “There’s some excellent sailors in this class and it’s growing rapidly with new owners coming in. It’s the fastest one-design class in the country right now. It’s tough competition and in 15-20 knots they are awesome, though a bit of a handful over 20 knots, but still manageable.”

In the class around three years now, Proud said, “We got a third at the Nationals in Melbourne and won here. It’s all about being consistent.”  

On the conditions, he said, “We got anywhere from 12-20 knots. It was shifty, swirly, patchy and everything else, especially up near Shark Island.”

J/24s

David West’s Ace won four of the six J/24 windward/leewards to take top place from serial winner, Innamincka (John Crawford) by two points. Third was Michael Rowe’s Kaotic after the fleet sailed six races.

Performance Spinnaker

Three divisions fought hard for their share of the prizes. Division 1 went to John Amos’ Chainsaw; Division 2 was won by Sebastian Hultin’s Georgia Express and Division 3 by Martyn Colebrook’s Slac-N-Off. There was very little in it across all three divisions, a point here and two points there.

“We used our No. 2 headsail when we should have been using a No. 4 today - we got 15 to 20 knots at one stage today after it being extremely light yesterday. We had varying conditions, which is always good,” Amos said.

Performance Non-Spinnaker

Local sailor, John De Meur, won the division with his Elysium, beating St Elmo’s Fire (Team SEF) and Kailani (Peter Charteris) to the punch after four races on the Harbour.

Photos by Andrea Francolini

Open Class divisions

Ross Hennessy’s Ker 40 MK3 Condor, fresh off its win at the Pittwater Regatta in February and winner of the Super 40 division at this regatta last year, has done it again, this time in Open Division 1. He beat another regular winner in Bob Cox’s DK46, Nine Dragons while David Hamilton’s Seeking Alpha, a Farr 40, was third.

In Division 2, John Bacon’s recent purchase, Crazy Diamond, cleaned up. The Melges 32 beat Like Oxygen (Andrew York) and Foreign Affair (Matt Wilkinson) by 11 points, after the latter two finished on equal points.

The Official Presentation will be held tomorrow evening at MHYC, when the Grand Prizes will be drawn. The first place draw is for a Supercar Track Day for two at a race on the Supercars Calendar, with two General Admission tickets, along with a money-can’t-buy pit tour and grid walk access, courtesy of the Steadfast Group.

In the second place draw is two nights’ accommodation at Hamilton Island’s Reef View Hotel, including breakfast daily transfers, shuttle service and more, courtesy of Nautilus Marine Insurance. Plus an initial consultation and six-month Kieser membership.

The third place draw is for a ‘Manly Spirits ‘Distillery Experience’ for a yacht crew of up to 10 people.

This evening, a random draw will be held for two great prizes for crew members, thanks to the generous support of event sponsors Zhik and Kieser. Prize 1 is a pair of Zhik jackets. Prize 2 is a six month core membership, including a physiotherapy assessment and seven guided physiotherapy sessions with Kieser.

MHYC Special Events Chair, Ian Box, said: “The Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta could not be held without the assistance of the following clubs and their volunteers:

Cruising Yacht Club Australia (CYCA); Manly Yacht Club (MYC); Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association (RANSA); Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC); Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club (RPEYC); Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS); Sydney Amateur Sailing Club (SASC) and Sydney Flying Squadron (SFS).

Box continued, “Thanks also to our naming rights sponsor, Nautilus Marine Insurance and supporting sponsors, Zhik and Kieser.”

On the event as a whole, Box, who raced his Toybox 2 in Open Division 1 said, “It was a particularly light regatta until the last race today. I commend the quality of the entrants in the Open divisions, it was a high quality fleet. I can only speak for those divisions where I was racing, but anyone who has performed well across the other classes deserves their trophies.  It was a tough regatta and tough competition.

“The race officers set good courses both days that we were able to complete all races on both days. Well done to them – they had a hard job both days. There was good collaboration between all of them. I feel really proud; they couldn’t have done a better job,” Box ended.

So many other classes sailing at the regatta, impossible to cover all, but full results for all are available at: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Saturday 8 March is International Women’s Day, celebrating all manner of achievements by women from all walks of life who are making waves around the world – and here at the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, hosted by Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC), we pay tribute to the many women involved this weekend.

In the J/70 class there are three high-profile sailors competing. Aboard Stephen Ellis’ Jouet and racing for the first time at this regatta, is a Chinese double Olympic medallist. Xu ‘Lily’ Lijia, who won Bronze in the Laser Radial at the 2008 Beijing Games and backed up to win Gold in the class at the 2012 London Games, where she was appointed flag bearer for China at the Closing Ceremony.

The Shanghai sailor was subsequently named 2012 Rolex ISAF World Sailor of the Year. She faced hurdles on the road to success, born nearly deaf in one ear and nearly blind in one eye. Attending a sports school in Shanghai at 10, she was chosen by a coach for the sailing squad and a year later, won the 1998 Chinese National Championship.

In 1999 at 12, Lily escaped death in a sudden storm while training with team mates on the open sea off Fujian Province. Then, leading into the 2004 Athens Games, following a physical examination, a giant-cell tumour of bone was found near her left knee, so Lily sacrificed the Games, as doctors warned the tumor could spread quickly and result in amputation of her leg.

Xu Lijia is a global role model and since retiring from Olympic competition, she has become a sports journalist and is one of three sailing lives explored in the yet to be released movie, ‘Storm School’, as she continues the sailing journey here in Australia.

“Lily is sussing out options to potentially spend the European winter in Sydney, Australia, while also gaining experience sailing a range of different yachts. She’s enjoying the J/70, racing at this regatta,” says Karyn Gojnich, who is also at the regatta as co-owner of the J/70, Jabiru.

Gojnich continues, “The J/70 is a great class for a diverse range of sailors - old, young, male and female. It’s like a big dinghy and the loads in the mainsheet and spinnaker sheets are manageable. As a one design class there is great racing and the boat lights up downwind in anything over 12-14 knots.

“A number of Australian teams are heading to Lake Garda in late June for the inaugural J/70 Mixed Plus World Championship. Mixed Plus is defined as ‘a crew shall consist of four or more persons and contain no more than two males over 18 years of age’.”

“The Rule was introduced to encourage more participation for women in sailing, and this is still an overall goal of the J/70 and I’m planning on going,” Gojnich says.

The treble Olympian says, “Three RSYS mothers of children in the Club’s Youth sailing program now share ownership of Jabiru with me. For the Sydney Harbour Regatta, mum and Jabiru co- owner, Natasha Miller is on board. There is also Alice Kidd who recently moved to Sydney and is looking to continue her love of sailing. Will Thomas, a RSYS intermediate member and my daughter’s fiancé is with us too.

“I’m trying to provide opportunities for females in particular, to learn more, grow their skills and meet other like-minded sailors. This is certainly the main aim connected with our Ladies of the Sea Coaching Regatta over the October Long Weekend,” Gojnich said.

Kim Ketelbey, who was on Roger Hickman’s winning 2014 Sydney Hobart Wild Rose crew is the owner skipper of J/70, Anemology. She has been doing twilight racing with women from the Squadron and other racing on her boat.

Japanese sailor, Arisa Moriya, came to Australia alone in October 2023, “Because there are more opportunities to sail and race offshore here,”  she said. “When I first arrived, I didn’t know anyone, but I showed up at yacht clubs every day and kept sailing.

“Over time, many people have supported my goal and I’ve met so many great sailors whom I deeply respect and I am working hard to improve my skills in high performance sailing. Ultimately, I want to become a world-class navigator and sailor,” Moriya states.

Moriya, who found a job at North Sails, is self-motivated and it’s paying dividends. She is racing regularly on Master Lock Comanche with Matt Allen and will be sailing on Robert Kelly’s Virago at Sailfest in Newcastle later this month.

Moriya has also raced on Lisa Callaghan’s Mondo. At the Sydney Harbour Regatta she is aboard Keiran Mulcahy’s competitive King 40, Soozal, in the Open IRC fleet.

“Thankfully, Mitch White (a MHYC member) put me on Soozal. I want to do my best this weekend,” ended Moriya, who turns 29 in mid-March.

Gojnich is familiar with Moriya: “I am a mentor with the Magenta Project (set up by four high-profile international women sailors it supports and help women get to the elite level) and that’s how I met Arisa. She’s wonderful. She’s prepared to do anything on a boat, just to be out racing. She’s quiet but determined.”

Sue Crafer, another well-credentialled yachtie who is sailing with Moriya on Soozal, agrees: “She’ll do anything, from packing spinnakers, you name it, she’ll do it – and she does her jobs quietly – no fuss.”

Veteran of 32 Hobarts, inclusive of two race records, six line honours and two overall wins, Adrienne Cahalan is navigating Wild Oats X,  while Alice Parker, another navigator making a name for herself, is on the Super 50s leader, Matador. Parker navigated URM Group to second overall in the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart.

Katie Spithill, a former match racing champion, Olympic campaigner and allrounder, is one of the helms on Hooligan, Mara Stranksy, the Laser Radial Australian 2020 Olympian from Queensland is sailing on a Melges 32, Crazy Diamond, current leader of Open Division 2.

On Daguet 2 in the Open class, you will find veteran yachtswoman, Bridget Canham, Margot Van der Poel and Claire Woods.

In the Performance class divisions, Julie Clarke is here with her Dufour 40e, Arcturus 3, Julie Ford is at the helm of Akiki, Ruth Lawrence is sailing her modified S80, Alcamy and Felicity Nelson, a veteran of 28 Sydney Hobarts, is sailing the Farr 1020, Sequel, that she co-owns.

“I sail three times a week out of Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron. The Sydney Harbour Regatta is in our pointscore and we enjoy it. I am the only female helm across Divisions 1, 2 and 3 in our pointscore and that surprises me,” Clarke says.

Clarke, who sails with an all-female crew on Tuesdays, says, “My husband (Terry) and I have had several boats over 25 years. I’m well into my 70s now and I still love it. Karyn (Gojnich) is very good in bringing women into sailing later in life through Ladies of the Sea at our Club.

“I’m lucky to have a husband who is also passionate about sailing and he is among our eight crew this weekend that also includes three women.”   

There are many other women boat owners and sailors spread through the fleet, just as there are in regatta management ashore and on the water, many of them regular volunteers. We celebrate you all.

All information and photos from the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, including full results, can be found at: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Images by Andrea Francolini

Di Pearson/MHYC media

It was light on for breeze, shifty and late to start because of those things at the Nautilus Marine Sydney Harbour Regatta opener and while the breeze remained relatively light, it was a spectacular summer-like day on the first weekend of autumn, with all competitors enjoying their Harbour and offshore racing experience.

Far East 28R One Design Australian Championship

Well-named Firecracker, Scott Lawson’s defending champion, put the opposition on notice, jumping smartly out of the start gate to win all three windward/leeward races on Sydney Harbour. Just 17 seconds separated first from second placed Wildling 3 (Conrad Johnston and Steve Byrne) in Race 1 and so it went again between the two in Races 2 and 3.

A change in conditions tomorrow may prove the tipping point for the Wildling 3 crew and the rest. We’ll see. 

Open Class divisions

Three windward/leeward races were held on The Sound, just inside Sydney Heads. A light and shifty breeze of 5-8 knots put the two divisions through their paces. Both are hotly contested and new players aside, the rest have won trophies at various major regattas and races. It was good to see the Oatley family’s RP66, Wild Oats X, out racing in Division 1, but it was a small boat race today.

Best in Division 1 was Brent Lawson’s Bluetack, her 1-3-7 results giving the Farr 40  a one-point advantage from defending champion and recent Pittwater Regatta winner, Ross Hennessy’s Kerr 40 MK3, Condor. Not to be outdone was another perennial winner, Bob Cox with Nine Dragons. The DK46 is three points off the lead and Cox is notorious for coming from behind to win. Tomorrow will decide it. 

As the individual race results reflect, the finishes were very close when the handicaps were applied.

Division 2 and John Bacon’s recent Melges 32 purchase of Crazy Diamond (the ex Cockwomble from Hobart), revelled in the light offshore breeze. Two wins and a second give Bacon a handy three point lead going into the final day tomorrow.

Bacon’s fellow RPAYC member, Peter Farrugia is in second with his Bull 9000, Bullwinkle, while Matt Wilkinson’s Farr 30, Foreign Affair, is on equal points with Bullwinkle but relegated to third place on countback.

Crazy Diamond cleared out in the opener, but Bullwinkle’s crew did not let her off the hook easily in the second race, just 13 seconds separated them. Race 3 was also close, with Foreign Affair overcoming Bacon’s boat by 21 seconds.

“Conditions were very well suited to a Melges 32. It was John’s first event with this boat,” said Darren ‘Twirler’ Jones, who is aboard the boat. “We got it to Sydney on Tuesday, put it together at Pittwater and bought it down to Middle Harbour for the regatta.”

Jones continued, we bought Will Sargent up from Hobart – Will and I sailed on this boat before. We have Mara Stransky (2020 Olympian in the Laser Radial) as our strategist. Also Some of John’s long time crew are on board too. 

VX-One One design

Well-known Sydney sailor and yachtsman Warwick Rooklyn steered Bolt to 2-1-1 results on windward/leeward courses to lead the VX-One One Design class at the Sydney Harbour Regatta by three points from V Wagon, Chris Dawson and Steve Bryant’s reining national champion. Jervis Tilley’s AUS 353 is in third, tailing the leader by six points.

“The first race we were leading – we were stupid and finished second to V Wagon - but  we won the next two,” said Rooklyn. The former skiff and Melges 24 champion’s ocean racing career famously includes skippering Apollo to second on line behind his father, Jack’s, Ballyhoo in the 1976 Sydney Hobart.

Rooklyn said, “We got the boat this season and did the States, then the Pittwater Regatta and the Nationals. It’s all a learning curve sailing the VX. I’ve got a young crew out of the 470s and we had Darren Nicholson aboard today too.

“They’re a fun boat,” Rooklyn continued, “They’re like a big 29er, the way they are laid out. They’re reasonably priced and Mackays in New Zealand  do a good job of building them. At the Nationals we had the boat sailing at 23 knots.”

Super 50s

David Doherty’s Matador is proving again to be too good for the rest. Matador, with trophies from the TP52 circuit and other races, including a short offshore race, cleaned up in both Super 50s races today – under IRC and TP.

Sailing on offshore windward/leeward courses that started and finished on Sydney Harbour, not even Marcus Blackmore’s Hooligan could come close. The fleet is made up of eight boats – seven TP52s and one RP52, Virago, which doesn’t fit into the TP52s TP rating category, hence the two different scoring systems.

Under IRC, Hooligan was second in Race 1 with Peter White sailing his latest First Light (Geoff Boettcher’s ex Secret Mens Business) to third. Race 2 was the beautifully prepared and sailed Matador again, with Hooligan second and Mark Spring’s Highly Sprung third. Full TP scores for the Pallas Capital Gold Cup Act 1 are available on the Sydney Harbour Regatta website.

“Luck went our way a bit and at stages it went Hooligan’s,” Doherty said. “They (Hooligan) should have won first race, but shift didn’t go their way, it went ours, so we won it. Our crew are really doing a good job. James Corrie does a great job on the boat preparation and the crew make me look good.”

Doherty said offshore it was, “A pretty flat sea with winds up 7 to 8 knots.”

As predicted in our preview, the Don Buckley skippered Yendys came out top of the pile in the Historical 18 foot skiffs. Buckley, a former six-time 18 foot skiff champion with the legendary Iain Murray and Andrew Buckland, has lost none of his pizazz and nor have his crew. Neville Turbit skippered Tangalooma to second and Terry Stewart’s Top Weight was third.

Finally, 98-year-old sailing legend, Gordon Ingate, leads the Classic Yachts Division with Jasnar. Ingate turns 99 later this month and has lost none of his competitiveness – or cheek! More on this division tomorrow evening.

So many other classes sailing at the regatta, impossible to cover all, but full results in all are available at: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Photos by Andrea Francolini

Di Pearson/MHYC media

The Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta is this weekend and Middle Harbour Yacht Club has extended early entry to 25 February and revealed some prizes for the 20^th anniversary edition from 1-2 March in an event where club racers match it with Olympians, America’s Cup and world champion sailors.

Marking the anniversary of NSW’s largest keelboat regatta, the VX-Ones will sail as a One Design class at the regatta for the first time. Five are entered to-date and the standout is recent addition to the fleet, V Wagon, owned by Chris Dawson/Steve Bryant who finished runners-up at the Nationals in January.

Other  contenders are Jervis Tilley’s AUS353 and Warwick Rooklyn’s Bolt, sixth and seventh respectively at the VX-One Nationals.

The Dragons, a former Olympic class, will hold their NSW Championship at this event and all manner of other classes and divisions will be out in force too.

Nautilus Marine Insurance CEO Lyndon Turner is an enthusiastic supporter of the regatta:  

“We are very proud to continue to offer our support to Middle Harbour Yacht Club and the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta,” he says.

“Each year the Nautilus Marine Insurance team and I look forward to this event. Over 180 yachts and crews, across 17 divisions, race all over Sydney Harbour and just offshore. It is a true celebration of sailing when that many sailors, supported by eight Sydney yacht clubs, come together for two days of competition,” Turner ends.

“Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) is very pleased to be celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Sydney Harbour Regatta,” the Club’s CEO, Andrew Forbes said.

“The ongoing support from Nautilus Marine Insurance CEO Lyndon Turner and his team has been integral in helping us reach this milestone. The wonderful coincidence of Nautilus Marine Insurance also marking its 20th anniversary in 2025 makes it a double reason to celebrate!”

In this 20^th year, competitors will be eligible to win some fabulous Grand Prizes:

A Supercar Track Day for two at a race on the Supercars Calendar, with two General Admission tickets, along with a money-can’t-buy pit tour and grid walk access, courtesy of the Steadfast Group.

A Manly Spirits ‘Distillery Experience’ for a yacht crew of up to 10 people.

Details of all Grand Prizes will be published in a Notice to Competitors closer to the event.

Regardless of who wins the Grand Prizes, all divisional placegetters will receive a pair of wine glasses and a Zhik voucher.

Entrants in the Performance Class (Spinnaker) divisions will be competing hard for the prizes. They provide large numbers every year, making a spectacular sight on the Harbour with their colourful spinnakers, ahead of their crews enjoying the after-race festivities beachside at the Club.

Airlie Beach yachtie, Mark Beale, is one, returning to sail Rob Reynolds’ local Farr 40 Exile in Division 1. “There will be me and seven of my crew. We all live in Airlie Beach these days, but originally come from other places,” the former NSW resident says.

On why they are coming down for the Sydney Harbour Regatta again, Beale says, “Everyone has a dream to sail a yacht on Sydney Harbour. One of my crew hasn’t done it before and we’ve all been in that position.

“We love the competition and practicing our skills against some of the gun sailors there. We’re just a bunch of hacks though,” Beale is at pains to point out.

Jan ‘Clogs’ Scholten has entered the Stewart 34, Panchax. ‘Clogs’ is well known around the traps. A past Laser Masters world champion, he made history as the first to win the double-handed division of the Sydney Hobart in 2021 with Jules Hall on Hall’s boat, Disko Trooper_Contender Sail Cloth.

“I’m sailing the family boat fully crewed with the co-owner, Stephen Parker. His wife Christine, my daughter Anneliesse, work colleagues Joris Meijboom, Jim Dargaville and Otto Burrows are with us,” Clogs said.

“It’s an iconic regatta and I just want to chill with friends on my own boat. After racing, catching up with other friends on the beach with the tide coming in is great. MHYC deserves recognition. They run a great regatta and they’ve been good to me over the years.

“It’s also an opportunity to leave the Northern Beaches and sail with the city folk on the Harbour,” Scholten finishes.

David O'Loughlin won Division 2 last year with his J/99, Siena, but defending that win is the last thing on his mind: “It’s a well-run regatta and a lot of fun. We’re coming back to have a good time. That’s the important thing – not the result – just the competition. The more people are like that, the better time everyone will have. We’re all looking forward to it.

“Besides that, I love sailing passage races on Sydney Harbour and have done so since I was a young boy,” O’Loughlin added.

Alan Robertson returns to helm Alruth after winning the Historical 18 Footers at the 2024 Sydney Harbour Regatta. Don ‘Admiral’ Buckley, skippering Yendys, is the quiet achiever who could upset that applecart.

Yendys has won her share of trophies over time, while Buckley is a former six-time 18 foot skiff champion when sailing alongside the legendary Iain Murray and Andrew Buckland. ‘The Hystericals’ as they are known to those who sail them, complement the old classic yachts in the Classic Keelboats division.

Close of entries is 2359hrs on 25 February, so don’t miss out – enter online where you will also find the Notice of Race: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

The man they nicknamed ‘Wingnut’, the indefatigable Gordon Ingate OAM, is returning to race at the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, being staged on the weekend of 1-2 March – just shy of his 99^th birthday.

A regular at the event, Ingate confirmed, “Yes, I’ll be 99 on 29 March, which will put me in my 100^th year.” It is a fitting way to celebrate the event’s  20^th anniversary.”

One of Australia’s most famous sailors, Ingate, was in the winning Australian team at the 1965 Admiral’s Cup with Caprice of Huon, which he also sailed to second overall in the 1972 Sydney Hobart. He skippered a Tempest at the 1972 Olympics and is the oldest living Olympian and skippered Sir Frank Packer’s Gretel II at the 1977 America’s Cup.

He campaigned in the 5.5 Metre and Dragon classes, winning the prestigious Scandinavian Gold Cup and Prince Philip Cup respectively - the latter at the ripe age of 91 in 2018 – his fourth Cup win. The boat was ‘Whimsical’, which he has competed in and scored wins at past Sydney Harbour Regattas.

“And I’m still sailing and still winning races. I got two firsts and a second sailing Jasnar at the CYCA last month and now I’m looking forward to going in the Sydney Harbour Regatta,” says a still debonair Ingate, who has lost none of his zest for life.

The Wally Ward designed Jasnar is Ingate’s entry in the Classic Yachts division of the SHR. Crew are David Giles and his daughter, Amy, who were in Wingnut’s winning Prince Philip Cup crew. Giles is a four-time Star class Olympian with Bronze from Atlanta 1996 and a former America’s Cup sailor. He and Amy have sailed with Ingate for years.

Scott Lawson is ready to fire up Firecracker again and is looking to defending the inaugural FarEast 28R Australian Championship that he won at this regatta last year. Six windward-leeward races over the duration will decide the outcome.

“We’ll get a very strong fleet again and defending is about managing risk,” Lawson explains. “The essence of our success is all the preparation we do. We started a month ago with things like making sure the mast and new sails are tuned.”

Lawson, whose 27-year-old son Harry will come from Perth to join the crew that includes skiff legend, Andrew ‘Dolly’ Divola, said  there are some owners new to the class. “There’s a lot of enthusiasm among them too, so we’re expecting a tight regatta again.

“It’s a very well run regatta - we have our own start – under a Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron team who do a great job. And the regatta brings everyone together for a Championship each year, so it’s very convenient.” 

On Gordon Ingate competing, Lawson said, “He is amazing – an icon of our sport.”

Five boats have already committed in the Super 50s, headed by the incomparable Marcus Blackmore with the latest Hooligan. First Light (Peter White), Highly Sprung (Mark Spring), Frantic (Mick Martin) and Virago (Robert Kelly) are all owners keen to topple the master of this division, but they know it won’t be easy.

Blackmore said, “I won’t be able to sail, but the boat and crew will be there. I told them it’s time they had a couple of women on board. Nina Curtis has been there for a while and now we’ve got Katie Spithill, so I’m thrilled to bits about that. Nina’s in the middle of the boat and Katie’s the alternate steerer. Mal Page is calling tactics and Richie Allanson’s on the main.

“We’ve done a bit of work to the boat, taken weight out of the bulb and put it inside the boat. We’ve done a little bit of work on the sails with Alby Pratt, who’s also on the boat.”

Ross Hennessy conquered the Super 40 class with his Ker 40 Mk3, Condor, at this event last year. On the weekend, he cleaned up at the Pittwater Regatta. Among his rivals there were Revolver (Michael Ritchie) and Little Nico (Adrian Walters/David Hamilton), who will be out to retaliate at the Sydney Harbour Regatta where Condor is also expected.

In the race to enter the Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) hosted Sydney Harbour Regatta Open Class, Khaleesi (Sandy Farquharson), Toybox 2 (Ian Box), Bullwinkle (Peter Farrugia) and Wailea (Neil Padden), were in earliest.

And it was MHYC’s Toybox 2 that did best in the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s ORC NSW Championship at Pittwater on the weekend, with Box taking the opening race and finishing second overall in Division 1. He is primed for the second round.

Bullwinkle placed third in Division 2, so he too is ready to race. Khaleesi and Wailea also made the trek from MHYC to Pittwater and no doubt both are looking forward to bettering their results on home turf.

The Dragons, a former Olympic class, will hold their NSW Championship at this event and all  other classes and divisions will be out in force too, including a wide variety of boats in the Performance Spinnaker divisions that light the Harbour up each year.

While MHYC is the Organising Authority of the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, it could not be held without the assistance of the following clubs and their volunteers:

Cruising Yacht Club Australia (CYCA); Manly Yacht Club (MYC); Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association (RANSA); Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC); Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club (RPEYC); Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS); Sydney Amateur Sailing Club (SASC) and Sydney Flying Squadron (SFS).

There is a class for everyone, so take advantage of the extended Early Entry fee before 2359hrs on 25 February when entries close.

For the Notice of Race and to enter, please visit: www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

To be held over the weekend of 1st and 2nd March, 2025, online entry is open and the Notice of Race is online for the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta – so come and help celebrate the event’s 20th anniversary this year!

“Nautilus Marine Insurance has re-committed as Naming Rights Sponsor for the regatta and Zhik has signed as a major supporting sponsor again,” said MHYC Special Events Chair, Ian Box.

“We are looking forward to hosting even more classes and boats this year, with great competition expected across a wide range of classes, overseen again by Principal Race Officer Denis Thompson. And we’re assisted by the same wonderful group of supporting clubs as in the past,” said MHYC Commodore, Rob Aldis. 

Aldis is also a regular competitor in the second largest keelboat regatta in Australia. Last year he placed third with Khaleesi, a DK46 after winning the opening race. 

It’s a spectacular event for participants and viewers alike, as Sydney Harbour comes alive when it is filled with a multitude of colourful spinnakers, fast racing yachts and some beauties from yesteryear. 

This year the event will incorporate the J/99 and FarEast 28R Australian Championships, for a third and second time, respectively. 

Jules Hall and his Disko Trooper are the J/99 benchmarks, having won the title in 2023 and 2024, while Scott Lawson’s Firecracker won the inaugural FarEast 28R Championship. Both classes are scheduled to sail six windward-leeward races over the two days. 

For the first time, VX One’s are expected to be represented as a One Design fleet, joining the J/24, J/70, J/99, Adams 10, Etchells and FarEast 28R fleets.

The Super 50 Group (TP52 and similar) return and will face two races per day with starts and finishes in the Harbour and a windward-leeward course set offshore.

On other courses, the Open Class (Divisions 1 and 2) and a variety of high performance 30 and 40 footers, will race three inshore windward-leeward races per day, most likely in The Sound.

Meanwhile, the Super 30 and Super 40 groups will sail a mix of windward/leeward and passage races inshore in the northern part of Sydney Harbour. This varied format will reward the best all-round boats.

And once again, yachts of all sizes, shapes and designs will contest three Performance Spinnaker Division races  alongside those in the Performance Non-Spinnaker Division and the eye catching Classic Yachts division.

Just as striking are the Historic 18 Footers, which will again race on the Saturday as part of the 2025 Sydney Harbour Regatta.

“There is a class and division for everyone, so don’t miss a wonderful weekend of autumn racing. We are expecting 190 plus boats this year,” Commodore Aldis said. “And there are some great prizes on offer, but more on those later…”

While Middle Harbour Yacht Club is the Organising Authority of the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, it could not be held without the assistance of the following clubs and their skilled volunteers. 

Cruising Yacht Club Australia (CYCA); Manly Yacht Club (MYC); Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association (RANSA); Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC); Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club (RPEYC); Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS); Sydney Amateur Sailing Club (SASC) and Sydney Flying Squadron (SFS).

All entries close at 2359hrs on Tuesday 25 February, 2025. After that date and time, any additional entry shall be made in writing and may only be accepted at the discretion of the Organising Authority. 

For the Notice of Race and to enter, please visit www.shr.mhyc.com.au 

Di Pearson/MHYC media

The Nautilus Marine Insurance 2025 Sydney Harbour Regatta Notice of Race has now been published and entries are invited for the 20th edition this prestigious regatta.

The 2025 Regatta is similar in format to previous years with the same wonderful group of supporting clubs and great competition across a diverse range of classes. 

To read or download the Notice of Race - click here

Bow Caddy Media were on the water capturing all the Day Two action in the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta.

View the video - click here

Bow Caddy Media were on the water capturing all the Day Two action in the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta.

View the video - click here

Today’s weather was a turnaround from yesterday’s wet blowy day at the 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, a glorious north-north/easterly wind on a sunny hot day made a difference to many results of yesterday – but not all.

Competitors have had a fabulous weekend in the Middle Harbour Yacht Club’s (MHYC) annual regatta and at the time of writing were back at the Club recalling the last two days with mates over a couple of drinks. Many chose the beach in front of the Club to relax, as it is a beautiful late afternoon.

Firecracker first Fareast 28R One-Design Australian Champion

Scott Lawson fired up his Firecracker crew to win the opening and final races, adding a couple of second places in between on the six windward/leeward courses to win the Championship. Peter Higgin’s Sparrow, which scored a pair of wins and a second today, gazumped Conrad Johnston’s Wildling 3 for second place. Johnston settled for third.

Lawson said, “We had a lovely final race. We had a horror start, tacked to port ducking all others, tacked onto a massive right hand shift and took about a minute and a half out of the fleet within 5 to 10 minutes.

“I think God waved his magic wand over us in that race.”

“It’s fabulous to win the first Nationals in the class and be the Australian Champion. I want to thank Middle Harbour Yacht Club, its race management committee and the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron crew who looked after our course, they did a great job.”

J/99 One-Design Australian Championship goes to Disko Trooper_Contender Sailcloth

Defending champion, Disko Trooper_Contender Sail Cloth (Jules Hall), ended the day in front, but Ian Smith (Jupiter) did not make it easy for Hall by any means in their six windward/leeward races. Counting three wins in his score, Smith’s crew finished four points behind Hall’s.

“It’s been a fabulous regatta,” Hall said. “The class has come on in leaps and bounds since last year. It was very close racing. We were delighted to win, but huge congratulations to everyone in the class.

“Yesterday we had a 29 knot gust and today we found a hole in the course. It’s been aa true test of abilities. I have to say the camaraderie and atmosphere in our fleet is fantastic – and that’s the best part of the class.”  

Challenge the new Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Champion

Greg Croak and his Challenge crew from Lake Macquarie have gone where no others have before – they cracked the Conspiracy’s winning streak to take out their first Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Championship. 

Croak and crew were at the top of their game throughout, their scorecard reading 1-2-1-1-3 to Conspiracy’s 2-1-2-6-5 after sailing six after the six windward/leeward races. Defending champions David Hudson and Peter Byford stumbled today, a rarity for them – and it proved costly as there are no drops.

Croak was over the moon: “We came close before but couldn’t quite put it together. Words can’t describe how we feel. We’re very excited and happy for the whole crew, family and friends from the Lake, which makes it doubly special. They put in so much,” he said.

“Conspiracy’s crew is very happy for or us, they came and congratulated us.”

Serial winner, Conspiracy, won the last two titles in a row, but improving competitors came to this Championship determined to overcome her. 

Adams 10 win to Artemis

There was no beating Tracy Richardson’s Artemis. The Sydney yachtswomen and her crew were ‘on fire’ as sailors say, winning four out of six windward/leeward races. Artemis’ nearest rival, Geoffrey Charters’ No Friends, finished five points adrift and counted a win its tally.

“We had a great day. We’re exhausted though. Yesterday was even better than today, we won all three races. That’s the beauty of one-design racing - you win some you lose some.

“We picked good lanes yesterday and executed manoeuvres well in wild conditions. We had difficulty finding the top marks. It pays to read the Sailing Instructions. Today was closer. A lot of fun. Our crew was incredible,” Richardson said.

Open Class

A trio of DK46’s went at it hammer and tong in Division 1. Yesterday Khaleesi (Rob Aldis/Sandy Farquharson) came out on top and was two points ahead of Nine Dragons (Bob Cox) and a further point ahead of LCE Old School Racing (Mark Griffith). Today, the order changed, with Cox taking the trophy from Griffith, Aldis and Farquharson were third.

Division 2 went to Garry Holt’s Let’s Get It On from Queensland. Holt’s always well sailed Corby 36 won five out of six races. This comes on the back of his recent Division 2 victory at RPAYC’s ORC Championship on Pittwater.

Performance Spinnaker

The Performance Class divisions undertook four Harbour passage races over the two days. John Amos’ Chainsaw was out on top in Division 1.

“The organisation is excellent at this regatta and we’ve had two fantastic days of racing,” Amos declared.

In Division 2, David O’Loughlin drove Siena to a win over Gary Carless’ Renaissance.

“I’m a huge fan of Middle Harbour Yacht Club and the other clubs that give their time for this massive undertaking. I’ve been involved in race management so completely understand how hard it is,” O’Loughlin said.

“We had an awesome day yesterday and today was great too. We had tactical and competitive racing today. The Harbour was very tricky. Teamwork skills were needed. My kids Sophie (22) and Jack (19) sailed with me. It’s great to sail with your kids.”

Division 3 went to Martyn Colebrook with Slac-N-Off from Dean Dransfield’s Escape.

So many divisions to cover, so in short, Ross Hennessy conquered the Super 40 class with his Ker 40 Mk3, Condor, with David Ross’ Kukukerchu second. Michael Nash and Maybe-J won the J/70 competition from Kary Gojnich’s Jabiru and John Crawford’s Innamincka won the J/24s. 

Gordon Ketelbey from the host club won the Super 50 division with Zen. Accolades to Ketelbey from the host club, he is a great supporter of races and regattas on the eastern seaboard. 

Organisers at Middle Harbour Yacht Club are thankful to the clubs that continue to support the running of the Regatta: Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Sydney Amateur Sailing Club, Manly Yacht Club, Royal Australian Navy Sailing Association, Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club, Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, the Sydney Flying Squadron.

“The Club is eternally grateful for the numerous skilled and committed volunteers who help each year. We couldn’t do it without them,” MHYC Commodore, Rob Aldis commented. 

“Finally, we thank the over 1000 sailors who’ve come from all over NSW and interstate to take part and hope everyone enjoyed themselves,” the Commodore ended.

Full results and all information: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Halfway through the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) is celebrating International Women’s Day early (it is on Friday 8 March), saluting women at the event, sailing, working in the on and off water race management teams and filling other roles at NSW’s largest keelboat regatta.

Marg Fraser-Martin is a volunteer photographer that plies her trade at this event and others in NSW. As a female sailing photographer, she is a rarity, as the gear is heavy and good balance is necessary, as sailing photographers work from small media boats and seas can be rough and wavy.

“You need to anticipate what the various boats are going to do,” Fraser-Martin shares.

At the Regatta there are close to 200 boats racing on seven course areas spread the length of the Harbour. Photographers need to be versatile and quick thinking.

Fraser-Martin is a microbiologist who has enjoyed other management careers around the world. When her husband became ill, they moved to Sydney where she took a photography class - and discovered sailing at Manly Yacht Club (MYC).

MHYC’s Sailing Administrator, Catherine Rofe, tipped Fraser-Martin into sailing photography: “Cath used to work at MYC and said they needed a photographer for a regatta, was I available? I thought ‘why not give it a go?’ It’s a good way to meet people and I love the atmosphere of the sport. It’s a passion with me.”

“It’s a hard gig, but I like a sport with people who are juggling everything in their lives so are just out there for the joy of sailing.”

Jenni Birdsall lives in Queensland. She travels to sailing events on the east coast of Australia, fulfilling many roles in on and off the water race management.

Birdsall has the respect of all her colleagues – most of them males. This weekend she is on Echo course helping out with start/finish duties. She was recently appointed Race Director for Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) in Queensland, the first woman to fill this role at this major event.

During COVID, the usual Principal Race Officer (PRO), Denis Thompson, could not travel from NSW to Airlie Beach, so he entrusted her with the role and is a vocal supporter of her abilities.

“I started at Georges River Sailing Club. I took my kids to sailing lessons, but I’m not the sort to sit around doing nothing, so I ended up helping on the start boat. Down the track I became Vice Commodore of the Club,” Birdsall recalls.

She was national president of the Cherub Association for 12 years and continues to volunteer for a variety of events, including at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, Festival of Sails Geelong, SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week and the Women’s Regatta at Townsville where she is the PRO.

MHYC Sailing Manager, David Staley says, ”Middle Harbour Yacht Club continues to celebrate the achievements and contributions of women in our sport.

“Women, both professionals and volunteers, are the strength behind race management and administration - not just at Middle Harbour but at many clubs.  As sailing increases the number of women in leadership positions, the sport  becomes more inclusive and welcoming, making it more enjoyable for everyone.

“Women are prominent in racing too. MHYC’s 2023 Yachtswoman of the Year, Katie O’Mara, is sailing on Khaleesi, current leader of Open Division 1. She has a key role on our Club’s Sailing Committee too, encouraging more women to participate and is leading innovation for MHYC’s Women’s Regatta on 11 May,” Staley says. 

Lisa Callaghan is the only female owner/skipper taking part in the Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Championship at the regatta. She co-owns Mondo with Stephen Teudt and in December placed 25^th in the Rolex Sydney Hobart. A great result for a little boat in a race where big boats ruled. Callaghan is also Sydney 38 Class Association Treasurer and President of Manly Yacht Club.

Tracy Richardson is the owner/skipper of the Adams 10, Artemis. This morning she leads the class by a whopping six points, having won all three of yesterday’s races in a one-design class where all other skippers are male. Richardson is also a board member at MHYC.

Karyn Gojnich owns and races Jabiru, a J/70. Heading into today’s races, she and her crew are in second place. Gojnich is a triple Olympian and the first female with her then skipper, Nicky Bethwaite, to represent Australia in sailing at the Olympics. She is Rear Commodore of Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron (RSYS) – also a first.

At the RSYS, she runs the Sea Coaching Regatta and races at many women’s events on the east coast of Australia, bringing a young crew of hopefuls with her.

Jean-Claude ‘JC’ Strong is another shining light for women. She came to sailing as a novice some years ago, picked the most difficult class to sail in – the Etchells – organised some coaching for herself and has not looked back.

If you want to go places in sailing, the Etchells, a male dominated class, is where you go. It’s where you will find the who’s who of sailing: Dennis Conner, Iain Murray, John Bertrand, Colin Beashel, Ken Read are some. And then there’s Strong, the lone female skipper, winning skipper of majors such as the Australasian, Queensland and Victorian Championships.

A doctor and a pilot, Strong is a petite woman who packs a punch in whatever she decides to take on.

There are many other inspiring women and girls in various roles at the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta, including on the race course, doing anything from skippering, to navigating, trimming and foredeck. All are enthusiasts doing their bit as we head towards equality in our sport.    

All information on the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta at: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Despite moody skies and rain showers, the opening day of Middle Harbour Yacht Club’s (MHYC) Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta 2024 was nothing short of exciting as gusting winds to 30 knots hit Sydney Harbour forcing the best out of all yachties and their boats.

It was inevitable, though, that there would be round-ups, Chinese gybes, the odd prang and boats crossing their respective start lines a little ahead of time.

Race 1 starts and reigning champion Jules Hall (Disko Trooper_Contender Sail Cloth) cleared out in the J/99 class, leaving the rest to grapple for the minor placings. Shine On-Team Callendina (Phil Herscovics) got off best of the Sydney 38 start at the pin, Toybox 2 (Ian Box) outclassed her rivals at the Division 1 start of the Open division, while Peter Farrugia’s Bullwinkle won the start in Division 2.   

And while a good start is imperative, it did not always decide the final outcome. 

Fareast 28R One-Design Australian Championship

Scott Lawson fired up his Firecracker crew to win the opening race before firing off two second places on the windward/leeward courses to lead the Championship from Conrad Johnston’s Wildling. The latter opened with a fifth place then won the other two races. Two points separate the top two, so it will be on for young and old tomorrow.

“It was a tremendously trickly day,” Lawson conceded. “The first race was in 20 plus knots, so fast runs were where we made our gains. The next two races were fluky, it was a lottery, you had to pick the right sides of the course the whole time.  

“We were close to Wildling in the second two races. They got to the right side of the course and we didn’t, so we ended up second to them in both. I’ve got great guys like Andrew Divola (‘Dolly’ Divola was a dab 18 foot skiff sailor in the past) with me, which is why we did so well,” Lawson said. “We’re having a great time.”

Lawson ended, “Light winds are forecast tomorrow and that will impact us, as we don’t take the boat out of the water to clean it. We’ll try to power up and see how we go.”

J/99 One-Design Australian Championship

Defending champion, Disko Trooper_Contender Sail Cloth, ended the day in front, but Ian Smith (Jupiter) did not make the day easy for Hall by any means in their three windward/leeward races. The pair are one point apart leading into tomorrow’s final races.

Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Championship

Serial winner, Conspiracy, won the last two titles in a row, but all competitors came to this Championship determined to overcome David Hudson and Peter Byford’s boat. Seems Greg Croak and crew on Challenge from Lake Macquarie were just that bit more determined. They scored two bullets and a second to lead Conspiracy by a solitary point after three windward/leeward races. Watch this space…

Open Class

A trio of DK46’s went at it hammer and tong in Division 1. Khaleesi (Rob Aldis/Sandy Farquharson) came out on top and is two points ahead of Nine Dragons (Bob Cox) and a further point ahead of LCE Old School Racing (Mark Griffith).

“The competition is always tight between the DK46s. The three were never more than four boat lengths apart,” Farquharson commented. “These are good windward/leeward boats, so the result is not surprising. The skill of the crews determines the outcome,” Farquharson said.

Of the conditions, he said, “It was gusty and between 10 and 20 knots, perfect for the DKs, that’s where they live.”

Division 2 went the way of Garry Holt’s Let’s Get It On from Queensland. Holt’s always well sailed Corby 36 won all three races after its recent Division 2 victory at RPAYC’s ORC Championship on Pittwater.

In other results, the Classic Keelboats, a new addition to the regatta as a class, sailed two Harbour passage races and both were won by Annie Lawrence and John Whitfeld’s Solveig.

Solveig was built by Lars Halvorsen Sons in 1950 for Lars’ famous sons, Trygve and Magnus. They took line honours in the 1953 Sydney Hobart for second overall and won the race in 1954. She is among other famous Classics here such as Wraith of Odin and Mister Christian.

The Etchells’ have also joined in the regatta and contested three windward/leeward races on the Harbour. Dawn Raid, skippered by Matty Whitnall won all three. He beat the best in the business – Peter ‘Billy’ Merrington  (First Tracks), which is sitting second. Merrington has won a multitude of titles in the class.

Super 30 and Super 40 classes are the ‘sexy’ boats of the fleet. Fast and sleek with a bit of ‘X’ factor, they were worth watching in today’s brisk breeze.

David Suttie’s Melges 32, Lockdown (bought and named during COVID lockdown) was a force to be reckoned with, winning two races and scoring second in the third, to hold a four point advantage over Peter Woodhead’s same design named XC3SS.

“The last race was very close. We lost it (to XC3SS) by nine seconds. We had a couple of wipeouts, but we got it back. The sailing was very good, with gusting winds to 30 knots,” Suttie shared.

“It was up and down towards the end. Tomorrow is looking much lighter. I think the planning hull boats will be a bit slower and if that’s the case, the other boats will come into their own. But I think we should go OK,” said Suttie, adding, “I have a very good crew who have been sailing forever and are passionate.”

Principal Race Officer, Denis Thomson, declared midway through the afternoon, “I’m pretty happy with how it’s all happening.”

Thompson has a huge orchestra to conduct, with nine clubs looking after seven course areas in Sydney Harbour and offshore.

A diverse field from the Historical 18 Footers and the Classic Keelboats division to the one-design and open fleets to everything in between makes NSW’s largest keelboat regatta the great event it is. 

Racing continues tomorrow from 11am.

Full results and all information: https://www.shr.mhyc.com.au

Di Pearson/MHYC media

Photos by Andrea Francolini...

The largest fleet in years will face starters orders when the 2024 Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Championship kicks off at the Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Harbour Regatta this coming weekend when hungry crews will be out to topple recurring champion, Conspiracy, owned by David Hudson and Peter Byford.

Although some have come close in recent years, Hudson and Byford continue to deliver that something extra, doing so again at the last Championship at Middle Harbour Yacht Club’s Sydney Harbour Regatta in 2023, when it looked likely Peter Sorensen’s Advanced Philosophy had the game stitched up - until the final race.

Improving regulars and new players alike are ready for the challenge ahead and all know what they have to do and who they have to overcome…

Lisa Callaghan, co-owner of Mondo and Sydney 38 Class Association Treasurer, is among the experienced. Mondo’s skipper faced one of her toughest challenges in the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart. She and co-owner, Stephen Teudt, sailed Mondo to a good 25^th overall in some of the most difficult and trying race conditions since 2004.

The pair arrived in Hobart after racing 628 nautical miles feeling a sense of achievement and renewed vigour.

“Coming back from doing so well in the Sydney-Hobart, I’m now quite excited to do the one-design thing again. Most of Mondo’s Hobart crew are doing the States with me,” said Callaghan, President of Manly Yacht Club where Teudt is Commodore.

“I’m also really excited to see nearly double the fleet and a rise in newer people in the class.  It was good to see Avalon do so well at the Pittwater Regatta. They beat Conspiracy. I think the competition will be closer than ever before at the States – and I will be excited to see a new champion!”

Callaghan reasons, “Owners have put a lot of effort put into building up their crews and improving speed and crew work. The States will give especially the newer people to the class a good experience competing against the other Sydney 38s.

She also concedes, “Mondo competes at its best and her crew learn the most competing against the other 38s. It’s a great learning opportunity and experience no matter how everyone finishes up.”

As the yachtswoman pointed out, the Sydney 38s are spread out at different clubs, so don’t race each other as a fleet, only sailing together at one-design events. “There are no more excuses, as the boats are the same, so it really gets down to the detail.”

This will be a first opportunity for most to race against those new to one-design racing as a class, so it’s difficult to pinpoint who the likely challengers to the main protagonists; reigning champion, Conspiracy (RPAYC) and Advanced Philosophy (MHYC).

“They are the ones to beat,” Callaghan confirms. “I think Avalon (RPAYC) and Challenge (Greg Croak – who finished third in 2023), will be right at the very top though.”

Geoff Ford, owner of Avalon, finished fifth at the Pittwater Regatta earlier this month, but has been otherwise unheard of at major events.

“I’ve been racing the boat for six years, but lurking in the backwaters of Balmain, although occasionally we come out to play in the Harbour,” he said. “But this is our first attempt at doing battle against the other 38s at a Championship.” 

Avalon won two races at the Pittwater Regatta and more importantly, beat Conspiracy overall, though it must be said that some of Conspiracy’s crew had jumped ship to Daguet 2 (co-owned by Peter Byford) for the NSW ORC Championship. Nevertheless, there is a psychological advantage in having beaten a renowned champion.

“We haven’t done the major class events because we didn’t have the sail wardrobe to make us remotely competitive. Now we have new Ian Short sails,” Ford explained. “We’re looking forward to the competition and the big fleet in the NSW Championship. We had our hit-out at the Pittwater Regatta.”

Ford has mostly new crew sailing on Avalon, but there is experience aboard. “Yes, I have people like Hedge (Glenn Cooper), Scott Clarkson and Stephanie Lyons. We’ve sailed against most of the boats at other regattas but never competed head-to-head in one-design. We’ll be happy if we finish mid-field or better.”

As to taking on Conspiracy again, Ford says, “I have a mate sailing on it, so there’s already a bet on between us…”

Sydney 38 One-Design NSW Championship entrants:

• Adela II (David Lamond, Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron)
• Advanced Philosophy (Peter Sorensen, Middle Harbour Yacht Club)
• Avalon (Geoff Ford, Balmain Sailing Club)
• Challenge (Greg Croak, Royal Motor Yacht Club Toronto)
• Conspiracy (David Hudson/Peter Byford, Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club)
• Love Byte (David Alais syndicate, Cruising Yacht Club of Australia)
• Mondo (Lisa Callaghan/Stephen Teudt, Manly Yacht Club)
• Shine on – Team Callendina (Phil Herscovics, CYCA)
• Thirlmere (Daniel Belcher/John Hodgkinson, CYCA)

For all information on the Sydney 38 class, visit: https://www.sydney38class.com/home/

All information, including entries, photos and results in the NMISHR, visit: https://shr.mhyc.com.au/

Di Pearson/Sydney 38 media

Photos by Andrea Francolini