11 Metre World Cup, to be held from 1–7 August at the renowned sailing venue of Hankø.
Hosted by the Royal Norwegian Yacht Club (KNS) in conjunction with the 11 Metre International Class Association and Hankø Yacht Club, the World Cup will bring together 24 boats and around 100 sailors from Australia, Norway, Sweden, Hungary, Belgium, Bulgaria, Turkey and the United States for a week of world-class one-design racing.
Joining Michael are current 11 Metre World Champion Steve McConaghy, Tom Spithill, Mark Griffiths and Mal Richardson, forming a highly experienced Australian crew with an outstanding record of success at the highest levels of the sport.
The team will compete aboard the chartered yacht Tack, equipped with a new sail wardrobe and ready to challenge for World Cup honours. Racing on the tactical waters off Hankø is expected to be close and intense, with up to three races scheduled each day against one of the strongest international fleets assembled in recent years.
The event also marks another important milestone for the class following the restoration of its World Sailing International Class status, reinforcing the 11 Metre’s place among the world’s premier one-design keelboat classes.
As well as representing Australia, Michael will proudly carry an RPAYC burgee to exchange with the Royal Norwegian Yacht Club, continuing the long-standing tradition of friendship between yacht clubs around the world.
The Board, members and staff of RPAYC wish Michael, Steve, Tom, Mark and Mal every success as they represent Australia against some of the world’s best 11 Metre sailors. We look forward to following their progress throughout the regatta and welcoming them home after what promises to be a memorable World Cup campaign.
Rob McClelland
Commodore
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club