As we push past the halfway point of winter, preparations are well underway for the highly anticipated Doyle Sails Gold Cup series. The series is made up of 5 events including a range of coastal racing, from inner harbour competitions to overnight battles testing sailors and their skillsets. With just two months to go until the Spring Regatta hosted by Richmond Yacht Club kicks off the season, excitement is in the air.
Doyle Sails are proud to be the naming rights sponsor of the Gold Cup series, marking the first event as part of an extensive new partnership with the Royal Akarana Yacht Club. Earlier this year Doyle Sails formalised their ongoing support of New Zealand sailing with a five year partnership with the club.
The idea for the Gold Cup series was conceived in 1981, at a time when keelboat sailing was gaining popularity. Major yacht clubs in Auckland, eager to develop outstanding bluewater programs, found themselves competing for entries. This competition led to a fragmented racing scene with none of the clubs achieving the turnout they desired. In response, the Royal Akarana Yacht Club proposed a collaborative approach, bringing together other Auckland based yacht clubs to create the Gold Cup series. This joint initiative aimed to unite Auckland’s fleet for five thrilling races.
The series typically commences with the 50nm Spring Regatta, hosted by Richmond Yacht Club, serving as an ideal warm-up following the winter season. This is followed by the Roy McDell Memorial Trophy (35nm, RNZYS), the Bean Rock Trophy (44nm, RAYC), and the Percy Jones Memorial (BBYC). The series culminates in the prestigious Balokovic Cup (89nm, RAYC), marking the conclusion of the summer season.
RAYC continues to be the home to New Zealand’s bluewater sailing with decades of success. After a number of years of dwindling fleet numbers, we aim to reignite the passion for Auckland’s keelboat racing with Doyle Sails’ valued support. The 2024/2025 season represents a significant step toward revitalizing a thriving and engaged fleet, promising to bring back the excitement and camaraderie that has defined the Gold Cup series for generations.
Stay tuned for an unforgettable season of racing, where tradition meets innovation, and sailors from all over Auckland come together to celebrate the sport they love.
