The 2025 F18 New South Wales State Championships are officially done and dusted, delivering an outstanding weekend of high-performance multihull racing at Mannering Park Sailing Club.
More than 20 Formula 18s joined a strong fleet of big cats for the regatta, with sailors challenged by two windy and highly shifty days that demanded sharp tactical decisions and disciplined boat handling. Despite the demanding conditions, the race committee delivered an excellent outcome, successfully completing six races over the weekend.
Emerging as the standout performers were Beau White and Sam Bylett, who claimed the NSW State Championship title after a dominant and consistent series. Sailing the Goodall Design Australia Akurra, the pair demonstrated exceptional speed and control, particularly in the stronger breeze, to secure the perpetual trophy.
“It was one of those weekends that reminds you why you love sailing,” said White. “Close racing, incredible conditions, and a boat that just wanted to fly.”
Finishing in second place, Bella Wilson and Matthew Hatton impressed the fleet with their downwind pace, regularly lighting up the course on the reaches and runs. Third place went to Dan and Nathan Van Kerckhof, whose polished boat handling and consistency kept them firmly in podium contention throughout the series.
White paid tribute to his crew, the equipment, and the broader F18 community, acknowledging Sam Bylett’s unwavering determination and the performance of the Goodall platform and sails. Goodall-designed and -rigged boats featured prominently across the results, reinforcing their competitiveness in demanding conditions.
Also representing RPAYC were:
- Grant Pellew & Lilly Smith
- Luke Ratcliff & Nick Reader
- Kerrie Driver & Antony Abbott
Off the water, the regatta delivered everything the Formula 18 class is known for — strong camaraderie, long evenings of laughter, and a shared appreciation for fast boats and great sailing locations.
Sincere thanks go to NSW Formula 18 Sailing, Mannering Park Sailing Club, Harken Australia Pty Ltd, and all volunteers and officials who made the event possible.
With the NSW States now complete, attention turns west, as many of the fleet prepare to head to Perth next month for the F18 Nationals and World Championships, where the bar has been well and truly set, to be hosted by Jervis Bay Sailing Club, Perth.