Excitement builds for the start of the 2024 Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race

Start of the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race © Andrea Francolini

The Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race is set to start on July 27, 2024 at 1300hrs. Hosted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), this year's race promises thrilling competition and exceptional seamanship as 51 yachts, including 13 Double Handed boats, prepare to embark on the challenging 384-nautical mile course from Sydney Harbour to the Gold Coast.

The Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race is one of Australia's premier offshore yacht races, attracting top-tier sailors and vessels from around Australia. Participants will navigate the picturesque yet demanding coastline, testing their skills and endurance against the elements.

Key Highlights:

• Diverse Fleet: The race features a diverse fleet of 51 yachts, ranging from cutting-edge racing machines to seasoned ocean cruisers. The inclusion of 13 Double Handed entries highlights the growing interest in this demanding and strategic category.

• Notable Competitors: The lineup includes several renowned yachts and seasoned crews, all vying for line honours and handicap victories. The competitive spirit and camaraderie among participants promise an exhilarating event for both sailors and spectators. URM Group, the defending champion, is no doubt eye-ing down the Line Honours victory. CYCA Director David Griffith's J/V62 Whisper will also be in the fight for line honours. Rupert Henry's Mistral competes as a strong double handed contestant, after claiming Double Handed IRC honours in the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart. Other notable double handed entries include Iam Smith's Jupiter and Shane Connelly's Rum Rebellion.

• Spectator Opportunities: The race start will be a visual feast for onlookers, with Sydney Harbour providing a stunning backdrop. Spectators can witness the fleet's departure from various vantage points around the harbour, including the iconic Sydney Heads. For the best on-water visibility spectators can book a ticket on the CYCA Official Spectator Vessel.

• Challenging Conditions: The course presents a variety of challenges, from navigating coastal currents and winds to enduring the unpredictability of the open ocean. Competitors will need to demonstrate exceptional navigational skills and teamwork to succeed. The smaller yachts in the fleet are anticipating strong winds this year, providing a fast ride up the coast.

• Race Coverage: Fans and supporters can follow the race in real-time through comprehensive coverage on the official race website and CYCA's social media channels. Live tracking, updates, and engaging content will keep everyone informed and entertained throughout the event.

Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race - photo © Cruising Yacht Club of Australia

Commodore Sam Haynes of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming race, stating, "The Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race is a great race. I had the honour of winning this race in 2014 with my son onboard Celestial. I wish all the competitors the best of luck during the race."

As the countdown to the start continues, the anticipation and excitement are palpable. The Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race is set to deliver another unforgettable chapter in the storied history of Australian offshore racing.

For more information, please visit the official race website at goldcoast.cycaracing.com.