Entries shaping up nicely for 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship
Entries for the 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship (SSORC) to be held on the weekend of 23 and 24 November are flourishing across the board.
Craig Neil (Quest) and Gordon Ketelebey (Zen) were quick off the mark in signing their TP52’s up for the Super 50 division. Ketelebey finished second in the Premier IRC class in 2023, but this time will face-off against class mates, meaning tighter racing. Entries from Marcus Blackmore (with his latest Hooligan) and Mark Spring (Highly Sprung) followed.
“I did the SSORC a couple of years ago and I’m looking forward to doing it again,” Neil said. “There are more TPs coming too,” Neil said with his president of the Australian TP52 Sailing Association hat on.
“We haven’t done any windward/leeward racing since May, so the SSORC gives us a chance to get back into grand prix style racing again. We’re doing one day of windward/leewards and a passage race. That is the plan at the moment.
“That’s what most TP52 owners are interested in these days, windward/leewards. And they are exciting because the racing is so close – only seconds in it at mark roundings and the finish.”
The 47th running of SSORC, organised by Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC), will be the final hit out for the TP52 circuit season in 2024: “Next is the TP52 Gold Cup series next year. It’ll be mostly windward/leeward racing with the odd 20 mile passage race thrown in,” Neil ended.
And while some of the usual supporters, Bob Cox (Nine Dragons), Ian Box (Toybox 2), Rob Aldis (Khaleesi) and Colin Gunn and Jack Stening (Gusto) got their entries in early for the Premier IRC and ORCi classes, so did a couple of ‘newbies’.
Peter Lowndes is bringing his Lyons 49, Wine Dark Sea, for the first time. The boat underwent some changes last year, including the installation of a new mast and being set up for double handed racing.
“We’ve been doing inshore racing and the Ocean Pointscore this year, as part of our long term goal to do the 2025 Rolex Sydney Hobart (the 80th running),” said Lowndes, who is a prolific sailor on the Sydney scene and Queensland, where Wine Dark Sea competes most years.
“I can’t remember if I’ve done the SSORC before, but certainly not with my own boat. I’ve sailed on other boats and we may have done it years ago… Our sailing calendar has been so busy over the years, it’s hard to remember it all!
“I’m always keen to take on a new regatta and new courses and race against a wider fleet. I’ll get that chance with the SSORC,” Lowndes ended.
Another familiar face in racing circles is Peter Sorensen. A versatile sailor across multiple classes from 16 foot skiffs to Sydney 38s and offshore racing yachts, ‘Sorro’ has opted for an Adams 10 this time. The former Eat My Shorts/Get It On, is now named Deep Philosophy, a play on his previous yachts’ names.
Last owned by formidable sailor, Garry Holt who leaves nothing to chance, the boat is perfectly set up.
The master of many classes, Sorro could finally meet his waterloo in the Adams 10 class, as it is rife with talented sailors. However, a mix of windward/leeward and a passage race may well suit Sorro and others of his calibre.
“The Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship is one of the highlights of our partnership with Middle Harbour Yacht Club," said Nautilus Marine Insurance CEO Lyndon Turner.
"Two days of close racing just off Sydney. Yacht owners and crew members enjoying their passion for being on the water with an enthusiasm that is so aligned with Nautilus Marine Insurance. It is a celebration of sailing and a chance to share our insurance expertise directly with the regatta participants and Middle Harbour Yacht Club members.”
Spectators on the water and ashore will be treated to a spectacle as both day’s races will start and finish in Watsons Bay. Camp Cove and the walkway around the headland are perfect land viewing platforms.
Standard entries for NMISSORC close on Friday 15 November, so hurry. Late entries will be accepted up until Wednesday 20 November.
For entry and Notice of Race, please visit: www.ssorc.mhyc.com.au
Di Pearson/MHYC media
Meet Scott - Sailability Middle Harbour
Scott has been involved with Sailability for over seven years. His father was a sailing tragic, so Scott had little choice other than to follow his father’s lead. Scott enjoys being out on the water free of his wheelchair. He enjoys the companionship of the amazing Sailability volunteers, both out on the water and on the pontoon, who give up their free time to support those in need. He loves learning about their life experiences and interests and also sharing his story and passions.
Scott studied film production. He was part of the production team who won the Tropfest short film festival in 2005. Unfortunately, in 2005 Scott was diagnosed with MS. This ended his film career. MS is a progressive disease that has gradually robbed Scott of much of his mobility. Scott has always enjoyed the company of others. He has a vivid imagination and enjoys a good laugh. He shares this through Facebook and other online outlets.
Sailability Middle Harbour sails on the second and last Sunday of every month from 9am - 12noon. For more information, contact Sally O’Neill on 0411 886 539 or visit the website.
Keelboat Information & Training Sessions
MHYC is conducting a series of informative presentations and practical training for keelboat owners, crew and race management volunteers.
For all sessions, please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to register at the earliest opportunity.
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Saturday 2 November from 10am |
MOB Practical Training Session Following on from the Keelboat Safety Forum, this session provides the opportunity to use a MOB mannequin to practice MOB Retrieval techniques. |
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Wednesday 4 December from 6pm |
Racing Rules Update The new edition of the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS 2025-2028) apply from January 1. Come along to find out what has changed, participate in some scenarios to see how the rules apply and have the opportunity to ask questions of experienced race officials. |
Elizabeth Tucker Partners with Cole Brauer for 12,000nm Double-Handed Journey to Australia
MHYC member Elizabeth Tucker, an inspiring sailor and former VP Finance in the renewable energy sector, is embarking on a 12,000nm journey from Europe to Australia, preparing for the ultimate test of endurance - the Global Solo Challenge (GSC) 2027 - a non-stop, solo circumnavigation of the globe.
Tucker recently acquired First Light, the Class 40 that Cole Brauer successfully raced in the inaugural GSC. After a successful career in finance, Tucker made the bold decision to step away from her role in 2023 to fully commit to her passion for offshore racing. Within 18 months of starting her maritime journey, she competed in the prestigious Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, solidifying her ambition to sail solo and non-stop around the globe.
The 12,000nm journey from Europe to Australia is a critical part of her preparation, testing her endurance and skills alongside her mentor, Cole Brauer, ahead of her solo circumnavigation. This voyage, essential for both delivering the boat and preparing Tucker for the GSC 2027, represents a key milestone in her mission to build a supportive and inclusive community in the ocean racing world.
While solo offshore racing is inherently challenging, Elizabeth is diligently preparing with the support of experienced mentors and rigorous training, ensuring she’s ready for the GSC 2027. Understanding that access to resources can be a barrier, Elizabeth is using First Light as a platform to offer women and others the opportunity to learn and grow in sailing—skills often hard to acquire without access to their own boat.
“I want to give people opportunities they might not otherwise have—the chance to learn, to grow in confidence, and to discover what they’re capable of, both on the water and in life,” Tucker explains. “Za Ocean Racing is about more than just sailing; it’s about encouraging people to follow their dreams, find their passion, and live authentically. My focus is on building a community where people push their limits and pursue their passions.”
Brauer, a veteran of the GSC and other offshore races, says, "This voyage with Elizabeth feels like passing the baton—not just a boat, but the spirit of solo offshore sailing. It’s an honour to share what I’ve learned with her and see her take First Light into the next chapter of its journey. I’m excited to watch her make her mark and embrace this challenge."
As Tucker gears up for the GSC 2027, Za Ocean Racing is actively seeking partnerships with organizations that share her vision of promoting adventure in sailing. Sponsors will play a pivotal role in supporting this groundbreaking campaign and will benefit from global exposure as part of her inspiring journey.
The delivery of First Light to Australia, based out of Sydney, marks the beginning of a bold and purpose-driven campaign. Tucker is looking to connect with like-minded sponsors and organizations eager to be part of this inspiring movement and support her GSC 2027 preparations.
For more information on Elizabeth Tucker’s journey, Za Ocean Racing, and her campaign for the Global Solo Challenge 2027, please visit:
Website: zaoceanracing.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/za-tucker
Instagram: @zaoceanracing & @colebraueroceanracing
About Elizabeth Tucker:
Elizabeth Tucker is an aspiring solo offshore sailor who began her sailing journey four years ago. After competing in the 2021 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, Tucker set her sights on the Global Solo Challenge 2027. With a strong commitment to fostering opportunities for others, Tucker developed Za Ocean Racing to provide access to sailing and life skills, encouraging people to push their boundaries and live life to the fullest.
About Cole Brauer:
Cole Brauer is a professional sailor with over a decade of offshore racing experience. Known for her success in the inaugural Global Solo Challenge, Brauer has inspired many through her resilience and tactical skill. Having competed in prestigious offshore races such as the GSC and the Bermuda 1-2 and currently training with IMOCA 60 team, Team Malizia for the Ocean Race Europe and The Ocean Race, Brauer continues to break barriers in the sport. Her mentorship of Elizabeth Tucker is part of her commitment to supporting fellow women in sailing.
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For Sponsorship or Media enquiries, please contact:
Madeline Linwood
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
+61 403 663 911
LinkedIn: madeline-linwood
It’s almost Daylight Saving!
It’s almost time to switch the clock back an hour and you know what that means – Twilights!
MHYC’s season of twilight racing gets underway next week October 3 with the Thursday Twilight Warm-Up. Held a few days before daylight saving commences, the start time for this race only will be 5pm. There are 24 pointscore races between now and the final race on April 3 and there is one race each month for the Smithy’s Waterproofing Women’s Helm Twilight Series. Make sure you have your entries in soon and join in the Thursday evening fun. Enter Here
The Friday Spinnaker Twilight Series kicks off on October 11. Held fortnightly between October and April, there are 13 races in the series this year. This is a great way to finish up the week! Enter Here
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Hats Off To Summer Party
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Join your fellow members and friends for an unforgettable night of fun, friends, music & dancing in the Harbour View Room and Balcony to celebrate the arrival of longer, warmer days with summer just ahead.
Prizes for the best hats!
The ticket price includes a live band, finger food and a whole lot of fun. Bar service will be available throughout the night.
MHYC Members $35, Non-Members $45.
Saturday 9 November 2024 from 6:30pm - Midnight
Book Here
Cruising Division Update
September 2024 Update
This winter has seen some of our Cruising yachts venture north to spend a few months in Queensland. We are expecting them back again for the summer.
This year the monthly cruising meetings will be held on the third Wednesday of each month at the club. Come along and meet fellow cruisers/sailors, catch up on information and listen to presentations from various speakers who share their knowledge of sailing/cruising. We start by gathering at 18.30 for a barbeque where you bring your own food, followed by the meeting at 19.30. This meeting is open to all MHYC members and guests.
The Cruising season at MHYC starts with a long weekend cruise in the harbour (5-7 October), if you are interested in coming along, please sign up on the cruising events website: crusing.mhyc.com.au.
We host the Make-A-Wish charity sail at the club on the 3rd of November.
If you would like to come along to another get-together cruise, check our events page on the website: cruising.mhyc.com.au
October Cruising meeting: 16 October at 19.30 (BBQ at 18.30).
Theme: Cruising at MHYC
Speaker: Zac, MHYC Dockmaster
We extend a special welcome this month to MHYC yacht owners who would like to know more about cruising together at MHYC.
2024 SSORC Entry Open – sign up now
Competitors can now sign up for the 2024 Nautilus Marine Insurance Sydney Short Ocean Racing Championship (SSORC), with entry open and the Notice of Race published on the official event website.
The SSORC, to be held over two days on the weekend of 23 and 24 November on offshore courses, is an ideal opportunity to get the early jump on rivals and to train for the offshore summer sailing season ahead of the Rolex Sydney Hobart and other upcoming events.
Racing will be held in Premier (IRC, ORCi and TPR); Performance (PHS) and One Design classes. Races in this Championship also form part of the MHYC Ocean Pointscore Series 2024-2025 and Race 1 forms part of the CYCA Ocean Pointscore Series 2024-2025.
A short ocean race is planned for Day 1. On Day 2 there is a switch to offshore windward/leeward races that will mix things up and test everyone. Both day’s races will start and finish in Watsons Bay and winners will be those who deal best with the variety of courses.
Expect to see Division 1 IRC top three from last year, Bob Cox (Nine Dragons), Gordon Ketelbey (Zen) and Rob Aldis (Khaleesi) return. Jack Stening and Colin Gunn, last year’s Division 2 winners with Stormaway, are now campaigning the Sydney 38 Gusto and will move to Division 1 this year.
Others in 2023’s Division 2 top three, Foreign Affair (Matt Wilkinson) and Wailea (Neil Padden), are also expected back along with RPAYC’s Bullwinkle (Peter Farrugia).
Now in its 47th year, Middle Harbour Yacht Club’s (MHYC) SSORC is run in conjunction with the Seven Islands Race, for those who prefer the cut and thrust of a round the islands Harbour course with its pursuit style start from the Club.
Held on the opening day of the SSORC, the Seven Islands Race is a game of ‘catch me if you can’ and again provides the opportunity of maximising teamwork and training against a wide variety of designs and lengths of boats. First past the post back at the Club wins.
First last year was the Mitch White skippered MC38, InfoTrack. Second and third places went to David Ross’ Cape 31 Kukukerchu and Michael Ritchie’s Ritchie 38, Revolver, respectively. No doubt the three will be keen to have another go.
“Running the SSORC and the Seven Islands Race concurrently offers yachties a choice of short offshore races and Harbour racing at its best. We’re looking forward to seeing you all on one of the start lines and to welcoming you back to our Club for the post-race presentation and festivities,” Rob Aldis, Commodore of MHYC and a fixture at the SSORC, commented.
“I’d like to take this opportunity to also thank Nautilus Marine Insurance (NMI), our main event partner since 2022 and a perfect fit for the SSORC and our Sydney Harbour Regatta in March. They are a key part of Nautilus Marine Insurance’s partnership with MHYC,” Commodore Aldis finished.
Standard entries for SSORC close on Friday 15 November, with late entries take up until Wednesday 20 November.
For entry and Notice of Race, please visit: www.ssorc.mhyc.com.au
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MHYC Opening Day 2024
The opening of the 2024-2025 Sailing Season was celebrated at Middle Harboure Yacht Club on Saturday 21 September.
After an enjoyable brunch in the Harbour View Room and welcome speeches by the Vice Commodore Racing Mitch White and CEO Andy Forbes, the annual Sail Past featured MHYC boats dressed in red and white. Congratulations to Tracy Richardson and the crew of Artemis, winners of the Matt Pyne Cup for the best dressed boat.
Conditions were perfect for the Commodore's Front Up! Cup Feautre Event with sunny skies and a challenging but not too challenging breeze from most points of the compass. Congratulations to Toy Box 2 (Ian Box) and No Friends (Geoff Charters) for the Division 1 and 2 wins within the seventeen boat fleet. To view the results - click here.
Congrats also to Martina Vieytes Pascual, winner of the Junior Commodore's Cup and to Mario Tosatto, winner of the Members Lucky Draw for a Zhik sailing jacket!
Back at the club apre sail for the prizegiving, the sailors enjoyed live music, food and great company until the evening.
What a great day to kick off the New Season!
Below are a selection of photos by Mark Fraser-Martin and David Staley from Opening Day 2024. To view all Marg Fraser-Martin's photos of the day - click here
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Zhik Womens Sprint Series Announced
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The Zhik Womens Sprint Series will be held on Sunday 3 November 2024.
This new regatta offers a series of short races with a round robin and final series in Melges 20 lightweight sportsboats.
Organisers are hoping that provided one-design equipment will enable a more diverse group of women to participate and the short course racing format will be more exciting and engaging.
There will be an opportunity for training in the Melges 20s on the Saturday afternoon before a 9am briefing on the Sunday and racing getting underway at 10.30am.
Following one final race to decide the placegetters in the afternoon, there will be live music, canapes and the prizegiving back at the club.
“We are looking forward to having a fun and exciting event on November 3 and are thrilled to announce that Zhik have come on board as event sponsor,” said MHYC Sailing Committee member Katie O’Mara.
“Zhik are providing some fantastic prizes for the placegetters and every crew member at the prizegiving will be in the lucky draw for a Zhik OFS 800 Jacket,” she said.
The Notice of Race is published and entry is now open via the event webpage. The event is limited to 12 teams and priority will be given to MHYC members, but sailors from other Sydney clubs are also encouraged to enter.
For any enquiries, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call the MHYC Sailing Office on 8969 3103 (Wednesday to Saturday).
Photo: MHYC’s Melges 20 fleet will be used for the Zhik Womens Sprint Series (photo by Marg Fraser-Martin)
Skippers & Crew Meet & Greet
Looking for a crew position?
Come along to Middle Harbour Yacht Club's Skippers & Crew Meet & Greet in the MHYC Harbour View Room at 7pm this Thursday 26th September.
Skippers looking for crew will make presentations outlining the program for their yacht for the coming season and give an indication of the type of crew they are seeking. Prospective crew can then ask questions of the skipper presenting to make sure they understand what is being sought. After the presentations, get together over a drink in the bar.
Please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or phone the Sailing Office (9969 1244 Wed-Sat) to let us know if you will be there or if you have any questions about sailing at MHYC.
