Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) was proudly represented at the 2025 Sail Port Stephens IRC NSW Championship, delivering outstanding performances across both Division 1 and Division 2 in a highly competitive fleet.
In Division 1, Hooligan (AUS100), Marcus Blackmore’s Botin-designed TP52, showcased exceptional skill and teamwork. With RPAYC’s Katie Spithill at the helm and Olympic silver medallist Nina Curtis among the talented crew, Hooligan posted an impressive series of results — 1st, 1st, 1st, and 4th — securing the IRC NSW Division 1 Championship title with just 7 points overall.
In Division 2, RPAYC’s presence was equally formidable. Bullwinkle (9010), the Bull 9000 skippered by Peter Farrugia — RPAYC’s Rear Commodore Yacht Racing — had an outstanding regatta both on and off the water. The Bullwinkle team started strongly, finishing on the podium after the three windward/leeward races on Day 1. The regatta highlight came on Day 2, when Bullwinkle took 1st place in both IRC and ORC during the passage race, sailing brilliantly against a very competitive fleet including two Farr 40s, two Cape 31s, and the very competitive Corby 36. Great boat handling, tactical decisions, and strong team spirit made all the difference. Bullwinkle finished the event with excellent results — 3rd overall in IRC and 2nd overall in ORC — a fantastic achievement for Peter and his team.
Bushranger, the Mat 1220 skippered by RPAYC’s Gerry Hatton, also competed in Division 2 and delivered a commendable performance, finishing 4th overall. Competing against a diverse and competitive fleet, Bushranger’s result was a testament to the skill and determination of the crew.
Congratulations also go to all our RPAYC members who sailed across a range of other yachts at the regatta, proudly representing the Club and continuing to showcase RPAYC’s depth of talent.
A huge thank you to the regatta sponsors, especially Pantaenius, for their invaluable support, and to all the volunteers and race officials who made the regatta possible.
Special thanks to the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club, and to Paul O’Rourke and his team, for their superb hosting of the 15th edition of this wonderful regatta. The warm welcome, excellent race management, and the overall spirit of the event have made Sail Port Stephens a true highlight on the annual sailing calendar.
It was a fantastic weekend of competition, friendship, and club pride for RPAYC!
Robert McClelland
Commodore, Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Read the Sail Port Stephens Performance Series wrap HERE