A Westernport Bay classic will make history on March 21, as the Cowes Yacht Club hosts the 30th and final running of its famed Around French Island endurance race before the event takes a well-earned hiatus.
Widely regarded as one of Australia’s most demanding off-the-beach catamaran challenges, the race is expected to draw more than 50 elite sailors from across the country, including National and World Champion Sailors. Crews will line up not only for the glory of conquering the course, but also for a share of the $10,000 prize pool, supported by key partners and major sponsor Australian Air Safaris.
The enhanced prize purse, introduced in recent years through the vision of Australian Air Safaris owner and long-time Cowes visitor Tony Kirkhope, has helped propel the race onto the national stage. Tony’s continued backing has ensured the event remains a bucket-list contest for Australia’s best. “This race has become a highlight on the national calendar,” Tony said. “We’re proud to help send it off in style for its 30th running and celebrate the sailors and volunteers who’ve built something truly special.”
Photo Credit: Cowes Yacht Club
Cowes Yacht Club Commodore Andrew Janson said the milestone carries enormous significance for everyone connected to the event. “Thirty runnings of a race like this is something pretty rare,” Andrew said. “Generations of members, volunteers, safety crews and supporters have poured their hearts into it. To reach this moment, and to give the event the send-off it deserves before the club takes a break, is incredibly meaningful for all of us.”
Andrew also acknowledged Tony Kirkhope and Australian Air Safaris along with the long-standing contribution of former Commodore Tim Modra and his wife Jeni through Modra Technology, whose sponsorship has helped cement the race’s reputation.
“Being part of this incredible event is an honour. It’s hard to describe just how gruelling the race is for competitors,” said Tim from Modra Technology.
Starting and finishing at Cowes Yacht Club, 400 metres west of the pier, competitors tackle a lap of French Island in the often-unforgiving waters of Westernport Bay. Although the direct route measures around 70 kilometres, tactics and conditions usually push sailors well beyond the 100-kilometre mark. Across three decades, finishing times have ranged from marathon epics of more than eight hours to the blistering record of 2 hours and 45 minutes.
The Phillip Island community has long embraced the spectacle, with lots of local businesses such as Red Rocks Golf Course, Ocean Reach Brewing, Wildlife Coast Cruises, Westernport Water, Isola Di Capri and of course Bass Coast Council all behind the race.
On race day, the Yacht Club will host a free BBQ, giveaways and prime viewing positions as crews launch into one last chapter of this legendary contest.
Cowes Yacht Club is inviting locals and visitors alike to be part of history and cheer the fleet away at 11 on March 21.
For more information, visit www.cowesyachtclub.com/afi
