Aucklanders have been waiting a decade for the sailing competition since it's summer in New Zealand. Millennium Cup Return to Auckland. After a two-year hiatus, the regatta was held in Auckland's Hauraki Gulf from 23-26 February, attracting a competitive fleet of yachts, including a starting field of 18m+ multihulls. The regatta was moved to Auckland to be closer to superyacht marinas and facilities for both spectators and participants.
Perseusˆ3 leaves its mark on day one
boat Perseusˆ3 Perini Navi, 60 meters long and built to racing specifications, took first place on day one with the introduction of the ORC rule for superyachts and the ORC rule for multihulls. Competing in the Millennium Cup category, Perseusˆ3 dominated the race, taking the honors at the finish line and outrunning Wyoming's Janis and Sassafras in their fierce and furious race to the finish line. Prizes were awarded at happy hour at the end of the day.
The day's race of Course 1A started beneath the Rangitoto volcanic cone, then circled Tritiri Matangi Island, home to a rare bird sanctuary, before returning to Rangitoto for a 20 nautical mile journey.
Regular regatta attendee and fan favorite Wyoming's bucking bronco spinnaker sail Johnnys once again filled the crowd, raising the cheers of the spectators in the blue sky conditions.
Outnumbered won the first day in the multihull category, followed by Kodugu and Cat+Ion. Out Number was also rewarded for the best finish, while Chief Race Officer Harold Bennett was recognized.
Second day wind
Winds between 15 and 18 knots were in the forecast sending the boats on a very long run Around the Gulf of Huracay, 23 nautical miles. The Millennium Cup division saw a close race with 34.2m Royal Huisman Sassafras leading the way as the finish neared Modutabu.
With a few lengths to go, Perseus3 took the lead, passing Sassafras as she fired her cannon as she passed. Sassafras finished the day with an injury time win, Perseusˆ3 a close second and Wyoming's Janis third. In the multihull category, Outnumbered took the second Cat+Ion win and Koduku retired.
The third and final day of the regattas
Day three's light winds sent the boats on a 21.62 nautical mile course from Motutapu to Ruidos, via D'Urville Rock, Ragino, Haystack and back to the starting point. The yacht and its crew proved unstoppable as they watched the great and mighty Perseusˆ3 cross the finish line, while Wyoming's Janis finished second and Sassafras finished third. In the multihull category, Koduku won, Cat+Ion was second and outnumbered in third.
General conclusions
The Millennium Cup division crown was crowned Perseusˆ3 As a winner, with Sassafras Second and Janice of Wyoming Third. Out-numbered won the multihull category, followed by Koduku and Cat+Ion. The Spirit of the Race award, a barrel of Mount K rum, went to Perseusˆ3 because… you know, cannon. and war songs.
As the sun set on this classic regatta, lifelong friendships were made through competitive spirit and camaraderie, the sailors ended the event on a high note. Perseusˆ3's owner exclaimed: “I love it in New Zealand, but what I love most about our ship is that these warriors sail here. When we bargain, we bring the best. He added: “We come back every year.”
The countless owner said: “This is a first in New Zealand. We love the country and we love the people.
Aboard Wyoming's Johnnys, North Sails' Richard Bicknell hailed the event: “We had an impressive win at Tiritiri Matangi and were on the run in Perseus3. It was a wonderful day there; “The whole crew had a wonderful time.”
Regatta dude
Mona Auckland, the New Zealand Ocean Festival is a month-long celebration of events on and off the water that connect the country to the ocean. Arts, culture, music and lifestyle are embraced along with exhibitions, parades, boat shows, education, conservation and sporting events.
Upcoming regattas
Regatta St. Barth's Bucket Race, is scheduled for March 21-24 for sailboats ranging from 100 feet or more to smaller 90-foot vessels, and always attracts elite sailors. Superyacht Regatta Giorgio Armani Porto Cervo will be held from June 4 to 8, following Palma Superyacht Cup From June 19 to 22. The Maxi Yacht Rolex Cup On the Costa Esmeralda, it will bring together talented sailors from the historic, J class, and a good list of supersail yachts from September 8 to 14. Les Voiles de St. Tropez They are scheduled two weeks later from September 26 to October 6. Last but not least, the 37th edition America's CupThis year it will be held in Barcelona and will run from October 12th to 20th.
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Caleb Mitchell writes for News Collective, covering news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. He focuses on clear, reliable reporting and useful information, helping readers stay informed about current events, emerging trends, and stories that matter.