Competitors and Club members came together to celebrate the 2023 Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race at the RPAYC Clubhouse on Thursday 23 November for the official Presentation.
Teams were awarded a framed representation of their journey to Auckland as recorded by their live trackers.
All, boats completed the 1250nm race from Sydney Harbour which started on the 7 October 2023 and finished with Antipodes crossing the finish line in Auckland Harbour 5 days, 3hrs, 37 minutes and 57 seconds later establishing the race record closely followed by Frantic and Mayfair. Intiy sailing 2 Handed was next to finish in 7 days days with Painkiller finishing 9 days after the start.
All competitors returned safely to their home ports, some covering another 1250 nm on the journey home, an amazing feat for any sailor.
The presentation also saw the launch of the 2025 race, scheduled for 11 October 2025. Notice of Race and Entry are available via the event website www.sydneytoauckland.com
Antipodes the biggest boat in the fleet, a Santa Cruz 72 skippered by Geoff Hill.
Speaking on behalf of Geoff Hill we can't wait until 2025 to do the race again!!
Painkiller a Bavaria 51 skippered by Graham Barrett
Frantic, TP52, winners overall and awarded the 1919 Sir Lipton Trophy. Skipper, Michael Martin’s name will be etched into history both on the magnificent trophy and also in history having won the inaugural race.
I wish to thank RPA for their assistance and great management of this magnificent race...
Home town favourites Intiy, a Figaro 3 skipped by Marc Depret and George Martin, achieved what can only be described as an inspirational and daring feat having sailed two-handed to Auckland and Returning within days of finishing.
On Arrival at Pittwater at 3am they were greeted by club members with three cheers.
Stepping off the boat, skipper Marc Depret signed up for the 2025 race!
Mayfair a Rogers 46 skippered by James Irvine were 1st on ORC, 2nd on IRC and 3rd on PHS.