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For the last 50 years the Trans Tasman Cup has been contested between the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron. Since 1974 it has been a tradition for sailors to take turns to cross the ditch for some friendly competition. Originally sailed in the Clansman and Dragon classes in the 90’s this competition was reigned back to ensure it was contested between Flag Officers and Committee members only from each of the Squadrons. The on-water activities have always been combined with more serious discussions relating to the challenges each of the clubs are facing, and what has been working well. Invariably sharing experiences has been beneficial to both clubs.

Last weekend each team was racing with two Elliott 7s and two J/70s. Eight boats in total on the start line and the teams racing point score system used. Each of the teams also had onboard a RSYS SKP sailor to help with some of the more challenging spinnaker up/spinnaker down manoeuvres.

The sun was shining, and PRO Ian Kingsford Smith was keen to get racing underway at 10am in the light south westerly. Race one started in around 5 knots however the breeze evaporated, and no one finished within the designated time limit. Bobbing around on the Harbour with some large rain clouds offshore it was looking like the competition was going to be a write off and we were going to get wet. Fortunately, eventually the wind did fill in from the south east and while it stayed under 8 knots all day we did manage to get in 6 races to complete the series.

The final score RNZYS 106 points beat RSYS on 110 points and so the trophy returns to New Zealand for next years competition. This takes RNZYS to a total of 26 wins over our 22 wins – we have a bit of catching up to do.



On behalf of the Flag Officers and General Committee, I would like to thank the Squadron Keelboat Program (SKP) sailors that joined us: Katina Casimaty, Annabel Connery, James Hayhoe, Massimo Henderson, Xavier McLachlan, Jamison Prescott and Thomas Reece. It was particularly pleasing to receive numerous compliments regarding our sailors’ skills, onboard communication and willingness to help.

Thank you to the J/70 boat owners Steven Ellis (Jabberwocky), Sara Ladd (Jabiru), Steven Proud (Swish) and Tim Ryan (Vamos) for making their boats available for the competition.

Finally thank you to our race committee Ian Kingsford Smith, David Ross, Phil Maloney, Nicholas Hogg and Luke Kingston for laying the marks.