Countdown to the 30th Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship

Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship © RPAYC Media

The excitement is building as the 30th Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship approaches, with just three days until the first race. Proudly sponsored by Harken, this prestigious event will take place at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC), bringing together top young sailors from Australia and New Zealand for an intense week of competition.

This year's championship boasts a stellar lineup of teams, including three representing New Zealand:

• CYCA - Ben Crafoord (Ranked 29)
• RPAYC - Hugo Butterworth (Ranked 35)
• RPAYC - Daniel Kemp (Ranked 06)
• RNZYS - Ethan Fong (Ranked 13)
• RNZYS - Hayden Smith (Ranked 12)
• RNZYS - Charley Cates (Ranked 56)
• RSYS - Thomas Rees (Ranked 126)
• RSYS - James Hayhoe (Ranked 72)

Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship - photo © RPAYC Media

New Zealand's contingent is particularly strong, featuring returning skippers Ethan Fong and Hayden Smith. Both skippers enter the championship fresh from competing at the 2024 New Zealand Match Racing Championship, hosted by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS). Known as New Zealand's largest and most prestigious match racing regatta, Fong' and Smith's performance establishes both as formidable contenders for the Harken title.

In its illustrious 30-year history, the Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship has been a proving ground for future world-class sailors. Many past competitors have gone on to showcase their skills in premier events such as the America's Cup, SailGP, and the **World Match Racing Series. Others have continued their involvement in the sailing industry, contributing to its growth and evolution. The event's Honor Roll celebrates this rich legacy and is available to view here.

Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship - photo © RPAYC Media

The teams will arrive today, Monday, 18 November, for their official weigh-ins and practice sessions on RPAYC's fleet of Elliott 7s, fine-tuning their strategies ahead of the competition's commencement on Tuesday morning.

As this event celebrates three decades of excellence in youth match racing, spectators can anticipate thrilling duels and masterful displays of skill on the water.

Stay connected for live updates and race results as the action unfolds on Pittwater!

Event Details:

For the full lineup of teams and umpires, visit: www.intyouthmatchracingchampionship.com.au

Follow the regatta on social media:

• www.facebook.com/royalprincealfredyachtclub
• www.instagram.com/rpayc
• x.com/rpayc