30 years ago a trend was created. One that would then make its way around the globe, as Beneteau saw not only the merit of the Beneteau Cup, but just how much joy it brought to sailors, visitors, sponsors, and attendees in general. That vibe was very much to the fore as everyone gathered at the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia for the briefing, as Flagstaff Marine delivered what would be another super-memorable moment in life.
The Big Blue relishing the glorious conditions
Back in the day, the Beneteau Cup was a two-day affair, with a lot of racing, and just as much partying. 2025 saw the return of the two days, by virtue of the Beneteau First Experience event on the prior afternoon and evening. Five Firsts were on display, where inspections were just about at queue up level.
The Beneteau First Experience was held the day before and here the First 53 and First 44 dazzle in the twilight
The majesty of the First 53 was complimented by the First 44, the First 36, the First 27, and the very new First 30 that none other than the great Wendy Tuck would helm around the track for the two races the next day. She was there as the Ambassador for the Making Waves Foundation, and gave a detailed description at the briefing of the work they do at various points along the Eastern Seaboard of Australia with youth sailing.
The great Wendy Tuck with the tiller of the new First 30 – now just try to get it back!
No doubt the joie de vivre of the entire affair was also added to by the pep talk from Olympic Silver Medallist and America’s Cup sailor, Olivia Price. Olivia inspired with a conversation about teamwork, calmness yet fire in the belly, and sportsmanship. She would drive the First 44, Lenny, for the day, and 10-time J.J. Giltinan winner, Seve Jarvin came on board for the second race to add even more star power to the enthusiastic crew of sponsors that were lucky enough to be on board.
Olympic Silver Medallist, Olivia Price, gave a brilliant warm up speech ahead of racing.
On board the First 44, Lenny, with Olivia Price and Seve Jarvin for star power
Out on the glorious Sydney Harbour, a very mild Nor’easter filled in as the day went to become fresh. In combination with the magical sunshine, it not only meant the Beneteaus could easily traverse the whole of the Harbour from Lady Bay to Fort Denison and back to Clark Island, but increased the smiles and banter a hundred-fold.
The fleet of 26 ranged from the magnificent Silver Cloud at 50 feet to Blizzard at 27, and just as importantly, there were 40-year-old craft and just 90 days old vessels. The former is Bob Swan’s Elusive Spirit, and Bob has the distinction of being at every Beneteau Cup. The latter was the new First 30 designed by Samuel Manuard, which not only looks great, it sails so well. How well? Enough to have Wendy Tuck looking for someone to loan her one so she can partake in the Sydney Hobart race double-handed once again.
Pretty in Pink – The First 27, Blizzard.
Silver Cloud III coming in for Line Honours
In the always ding-dong battle that is the non-Spinnaker Division, first place went to Uwe Roehm and the crew on Currawong, with Graham William’s Firefox next, and then Michael Cooper’s Moondance.
Non-Spinnaker Division winners – Currawong – happy times indeed!
The Spinnaker Division looked great in the gleaming sun, especially so with the very retro-panelled kite of Ian Creak’s GWM Pennant Hills. The win went to Jason Neuhaus’ well-prepared First 35, Crowded Haus, with Michael Finney’s Tea for the Tillerman next, and David Boekemann’s Bombolo, which had come down to the Harbour from Pittwater. The full set of results can be found here – https://app.sailsys.com.au/club/3/results/series/5312/races
Tea for the Tillerman and GWM Pennant Hills working up the Harbour towards the mark at Lady Bay.
Spinnaker Division winner, Crowded Haus coming back down the Harbour past the Eastern Channel Light.
Retro kites rule, OK!
A special mention must go to former CYCA Commodore Howard Piggott’s Silver Cloud III whose kite work was splendid throughout the day, and despite showing a clean pair of heels to all, was just not quite far enough in front to get on the podium. Beautifully maintained, if that boat ever comes up on the market, do yourself a favour and buy it.
Flagstaff Marine Director, Micah Lane has done ‘at least 22’ Beneteau Cups. Whilst the memory of the early ones may have faded a little, like UV on an old boom bag, he knows very well that he sailed with Howard back then on his First 40.7. Lane said of it all, “A cracking day, awesome vibe, fantastic sail, and 26 happy owners and crews. What could be better?”
“We really wanted to let people get right into the swing of things once back ashore, so we elected to be on the ground floor of the club with direct access to the just reopened deck. Increasing the party aspect of the Beneteau Cup is part of us ensuring we have a better and better event moving forward. It is a bit of a privilege to hold these for our owners, and the enthusiasm shown by all makes for an awesome experience.”
Shirts maketh the day, and they knew where they were going too!
“Naturally, something like this is not possible without our sponsors. We really thank Mitchcap, d’Albora Marinas, Pallas Capital, Club Marine, Boat Transport, Red Mill Rum, La Casa Homewares, Rolly Tasker Sails, Diverse Rigging, Wichard Pacific, North Sails, Matteo Double Bay, Ronni Rigging, Andersen Marine, Sydney Sail Makers and Boat Stripes for making the 2025 Beneteau Cup such a grand affair.”
“So it might be done for now, but we are already planning for next year, and before that we’ll see everyone again in May of 2026 for the Beneteau Pittwater Regatta,” said Lane who was clearly very delighted with the day, the racing, and the enjoyment commented on by everyone who attended.
On the march with Pronto.
For more information visit www.beneteau.com
