The 2026 JJ Giltinan 18ft Skiff Championship delivered another week of spectacular skiff racing on Sydney Harbour, with huge breeze, tight racing and a world-class international fleet battling it out for one of the sport’s most prestigious trophies.
Several New Zealand-linked crews were also in the mix, including the Kiwi entry Shaw and Partners NZL, sailed by Eli Liefting, Sam Street and Josh Schon. The team produced some impressive moments during the championship, including a strong fourth place in Race 3 and a third place in Race 7. Those highlights helped them finish 8th overall in an incredibly competitive fleet.
Another notable Kiwi presence was ASCC, crewed by Campbell Stanton, Ollie Gilmour and Pat Morgan. The team showed excellent pace throughout the regatta, recording multiple top-five finishes. Their consistency kept them just outside the top ten overall, finishing 12th.
Flying the flag for New Zealand on the world stage was also Akarana Eatery, sailed by Monty Alderson, Levi Jenkins and Marcel Van Der Voort. Competing against some of the most experienced 18-foot skiff teams in the world, the crew gained valuable championship experience and completed the regatta 26th overall.
The JJ Giltinan once again proved why it is considered the pinnacle of 18-foot skiff racing, with high-speed downwind legs, huge pressure shifts across Sydney Harbour, and a fleet packed with world-class sailors. For the Kiwi-connected teams, the regatta provided strong performances, valuable experience, and plenty of moments to be proud of on one of the sport’s biggest stages.
