The 2019 Lipton Cup Regatta will become even more inclusive and competitive, following a decision to allow AMS measured yachts to lead teams in their challenge for the prestigious trophy.

Due to unprecedented demand, the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria has allowed a boat under either the IRC or AMS measurement systems from Divisions A or B to form the larger boat in a team, which was previously only allowed for an IRC yacht.

The decision will make the event more inclusive and competitive, as teams of three boats across four divisions look to claim victory with collective results for the first time in the history of the Lipton Cup event.

Teams can be put forward by a yacht club, or as individual boats getting together and forming their own group – which can even be form across different clubs.

Taking place on 16-17 November this year, the Lipton Cup Regatta is a multi-class sailing event hosted by RYCV in November, which is expected to bring in more than 200 entries this year.

Teams will now be made up of three boats across three major racing divisions with the first boat bringing in their Division A or B IRC or AMS result, another from Division C using its AMS result, and the final boat from Division D using its PHD result.

While the teams trophy is only open to the divisional keelboat racing, the one-design classes competing will also experience an exciting format with Etchells, Adams 10s, S80s, and off-the-beach fleets all sure to have close and competitive racing across the weekend.

The cruiser, trailable and classic yachts are also shaping up for an enjoyable weekend, with only two scheduled races providing them with a great way to enjoy the bay.

This division, while ineligible to compete in the Lipton Cup teams event, have a format that is geared towards fun, further reaffirming the event’s purpose as the “regatta for everyone”.

Royal Yacht Club of Victoria General Manager Michael Neumann said the Lipton Cup was well known across the Victorian sailing community as a fun and affordable weekend of sailing suited to all types of sailors.

"The sailing program caters for all sailing enthusiasts, offering high-quality racing for the serious racing fraternity and an enjoyable weekend’s sailing for the cruising boats," he said.

"Our new teams format offers sailors the chance for fierce inter-club rivalry, or even the opportunity to partner with mates from other clubs to claim ultimate bragging rights.

"After sailing, sailors can then relax to live music on the lawn at the Royal Yacht Club of Victoria while enjoying the warm, friendly atmosphere and stunning views of Port Phillip and the city of Melbourne."

Teams and sailors are encouraged to get in quick as entries for the event close on Thursday next week, 14 November.

For more information about the event, as well as to enter, head to liptoncup.com.au