RPAYC Women Shine at Helly Hansen Women’s Challenge Finale
A strong contingent of Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) sailors delivered standout performances at the Helly Hansen Women’s Challenge, the finale of the Sydney Harbour Women’s Keelboat Series, held at Manly Yacht Club over the weekend.
The event, one of the most prominent fixtures on the women’s sailing calendar, brought together a competitive fleet of 31 boats from eight clubs, racing in light south-easterly conditions that tested crews’ tactical decision-making and boat handling.
RPAYC sailors featured prominently across the divisions. In Division 2, Jenny Danks secured first place aboard the Etchells Total Nuisance, with Ros on board, delivering a composed and consistent performance in the challenging breeze.
In Division 1, the Sydney 38 Mondo, skippered by Manly Yacht Club President Lisa Callaghan, dominated the fleet to claim a clean sweep—1st Scratch (Mixed Division), 1st All-Female, and overall PHS honours. The crew included a strong RPAYC presence, with Alice Lydemont calling tactics, alongside Belinda Parkes, Annabel Odell, Cath Hale and Lily (YDS).
Despite a slow start, Mondo, the defending champions, worked their way through the fleet with precise helming and trimming. In a dramatic final leg, they overhauled the King 40 Jambo and the Lyons 54 MV Kayle, skippered by Wendy Tuck, crossing the line just five seconds ahead following a shortened course.
Elsewhere, RPAYC’s Kelly Elsner stepped up to skipper an Force 24 entry, further highlighting the depth of female participation from the club.
Off the water, the series finale delivered a vibrant social atmosphere, with competitors enjoying post-race hospitality, prizegiving celebrations and Helly Hansen prizes, reinforcing the strong sense of community that underpins the event.
The Helly Hansen Women’s Challenge, first established in 1995 and now a flagship event at Manly Yacht Club, continues to play a key role in promoting women’s participation and development in sailing.
Further details, full results and event information are available via Manly Yacht Club.
With strong representation and impressive results, RPAYC women once again demonstrated their growing impact in competitive keelboat sailing, setting the stage for even greater participation in next year’s series.
