CYAA 2026 Cup Regatta
The Classic Yacht Association of Australia (CYAA) held its 2026 Cup Regatta on the waters of Port Phillip Bay in Melbourne.
This page covers highlights from the event in photos and video.
FRIDAY 30th OCTOBER
The Presidents Tumlaren Interstate Invitational Challenge) is a prestigious classic yachting race organized by the Classic Yacht Association of Australia (CYAA). It serves as a key highlight of the annual CYAA Cup Regatta, held on the waters of Port Phillip in Melbourne.
Click on image for the Days Photo Gallery
After three races Yvonne skippered by David Allen (left) won with Snow Goose a close second.
FERDI's SHED
The day was wrapped up with a get together at Ferdi’s boat shed, providing the opportunity to get to know each other over drinks and paella.
The boat shed was a true boat builders treasure trove of old tools, various stacked timbers including lovely Huon Pine ready for hulls undergoing restoration
Click on image for the Ferdi's Photo Gallery
SATURDAY 31st OCTOBER
Saturday's race presented a challenge for the Race Officer with forecast fronts laced with lightning. He picked a great window to get racing underway and all yachts finished as the heavens opened.
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SUNDAY 1st NOVEMBER
Sunday was a light wind day with conditions suitable for the oldest yacht in the fleet, Acrospire 3, a 50-foot Charlie Peel-designed gaff cutter launched in 1924.
What a sight she was in Sunday's light-air race, seemingly making her own wind as she charged around the course to take line honours and second place on handicap.
Click on image for the Days Photo Gallery
MONDAY 2nd NOVEMBER
Monday’s race was a non-points pursuit race, or a Mark Foy in NZ vernacular. Based on their handicap, all yachts were expected to finish together, and after 100 minutes it was all very close.
Click on image for the Days Photo Gallery
Regatta winner Gordon Tait (left) and Craig Brown President of the CYAA
CONCOURSE d'ELEGANCE
Another event of significance was the Concours d’Elegance, which honors the meticulous restoration, historical integrity, preparation, and aesthetic preservation of classic wooden yachts. This years winner was Akala owned by David McNeice – a 1963 Robb 37 in splendid condition. The prize was a rib out of Acrospire 3.
David McNiece receiving his prize from Judges Larry Paul and Fiona Clark
Akala - 1963 ROBB 37
LIFE MEMBERSHIP
Twelve visitors from the New Zealand Classic Yacht Association crossed the ditch to take part. Iain Valentine has been organising reciprocal visits for 20 years and he was awarded a lifetime membership of the Classic Yacht Association of Australia in recognition of his services to the enduring partnership between Australia and New Zealand.
In the words of the CYAA Chair Craig Brown “Iain has made us feel incredibly welcome and he has coordinated and organized the teams coming over from New Zealand. The only way that the CYAA thought they could honour and respect that partnership was to offer life membership of the CYAA”.
Iain Valentine with his CYAA Life Membership