The Old Timers Race Luncheon was a wonderful celebration of sailing, experience, and community at RPAYC.

“Old Timers” is a term used at RPAYC with affection and respect. It isn’t about age; it’s about the wealth of experience gained through years of sailing, racing, and contributing to the Club and the wider sailing community. This year’s event showcased that experience in full.

The Old Timers Race was first sailed in 1994 in honour of Bill Hedley Wiseman, who spent an extraordinary 54 years at RPAYC. That spirit of continuity and participation was clearly alive during this year’s race, with 27 boats taking to the water. When the skippers’ experience was added up, it came to nearly 2,000 years , an incredible testament to the depth of knowledge and passion in the fleet.

Experience came in many forms. Several women were sailing this year, including Annie Taylor on Bullwinkle and Elaine Fowler, co-skippering Baragoola with Ted Anderson. Elaine, elected a full member in 1992 and now a Life Member, was a welcome sight back on the water. Typically seen running races for others, she and Ted were out there showing everyone how it’s done.

Special recognition also went to Max Tunbridge sailing The Bolter. Max, the founder of the Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Yacht Race (celebrating its 40th edition next year), brought his own wealth of experience to the day.

Events like this are important because they keep people sailing, preserve stories, and remind everyone what makes a yacht club more than just a marina and clubhouse. The Old Timers Race is about showing up, enjoying the water, and sharing the experience with people who understand why it matters.

Congratulations to every skipper and crew who took part. Their participation added another chapter to a race that continues to mean so much to RPAYC.

The day ended ashore with good company, great stories, and a shared love of sailing.

Rob McClelland
Commodore
Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club