Hardy Cup Sydney International Match Racing Regatta at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron Update
by Muireann Dempsey, RSYS Media 7 Feb 11:59 NZDT
4-8 February 2024
RSYS Brooke Wilson vs RPAYC Hugo Butterworth in The Hardy Cup © Darcie Collington Photography
The prestigious Hardy Cup returned this week to Sydney Harbour for its 23rd year. The regatta celebrates the legacy of Sir James Hardy OBE, America's Cup Winner, World Champion and Olympic Legend, and his role in developing pathways for youth sailors.
Racing kicked off yesterday, Monday 5th February, with races held directly in front of the RSYS Clubhouse against the iconic backdrop of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House.
Day one conditions were hot with a light to moderate south-easterly wind. There was a slight delay in starting racing due to the conditions but once the wind filled in, everyone was keen to get out there and start into the races.
Xavier McLachlan (RSYS) commented: "It was tricky racing conditions for us today, but we have started this event strongly with five wins so far. We are looking forward to the southerly breeze that kicks in from tomorrow!"
To complete day one, competitors enjoyed a fun post racing social event as they challenged each other on the Dragon Force Remote Controlled boats from the dock.
Day 2 started with strong southerly conditions that continued to build throughout the morning. The race committee managed to complete the first-round robin just before the expected front ripped through.
At the end of the first-round robin, Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron's team led by Josh Hyde came away with a perfect scorecard with 9 of 9 matches won. Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron's team skippered by Xavier McLachlan sits in second place with 7 of 9 matches won, and RSYS' team skippered by Brooke Wilson third with 6 of 9 matches won.
Full results can be found here
Racing recommences tomorrow Wednesday 7 February with another southerly buster expected.
The ten international teams are competing onboard Elliott 7 keelboats with symmetrical spinnakers and contest a double-round robin before advancing to a final series. Qualifier racing is scheduled for Monday 5th to Wednesday 7th February, with the Final series scheduled for Thursday followed by a prize-giving.
Live results can be followed here. For more information on the history of the Hardy Cup visit official website here. Follow the action on the RSYS Hardy Cup Facebook page here.