The 2023 HARKEN International Youth Match Racing Championship, a Grade 3 match racing event, and one of the most prestigious sailing events for youth sailors, is set to commence from today, at the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) in Newport, Australia.

The event has attracted top youth sailors aged 16-23, from all corners of the world, all competing for the highly coveted Rockin’ Robin Perpetual Trophy and 2023 championship title. The 2023 event will see some new faces including notable sailors from Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Brazil, Ireland and Great Britain. The competition promises to be fierce and action-packed. 

The first teams, including Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron and the Brazilian Team from Yacht Club Santo Amaro arrived early on Sunday, buzzing with excitement and eager to showcase their skills on the race course. The remaining teams representing Australia, Canada, Ireland and Great Britain will check in at the club throughout Monday, for all teams to weigh-in, commence on water practice sessions and attend this evening's Welcome Ceremony. 

Sailors will battle it out in the Elliott 7 one design yachts, showcasing their match racing prowess, quick decision-making, and sailing expertise. The challenging race course, combined with the sometimes unpredictable weather conditions, will test the competitors' mettle, making this event a true demonstration of skill and precision. “The weather forecast for this coming week currently looks fantastic, and favourable for the teams. Pittwater looks likely to deliver glamorous days of sailing, with good wind, that this waterway is famous for”, RPAYC Senior Head Coach, Niall Powers. 

The two RPAYC representative teams hit the water this past Saturday for some final preparation before the competition commences. "It was great to get out on the water so close to the start of the competition. The teams were able to work on their fine skills in the light wind conditions", Rob Brewer, RPAYC Coach.

With the ongoing support of HARKEN, who have been affiliated with this event for the past 26 years, the championship promises to offer an unrivalled experience for both the participants and the spectators. HARKEN's involvement ensures a world-class racing experience for competitors, and showcasing the next generation of sailing talent.

Spectators are encouraged to come and witness this thrilling sailing spectacle unfold from the 5 - 8 of December.

Visit the website to view the full line up of teams and umpires: www.intyouthmatchracingchampionship.com

Follow the regatta on social media: 

• https://www.facebook.com/royalprincealfredyachtclub/
• https://www.instagram.com/rpayc/