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Nacra 20

RNZYS introduce foiling match racing champs

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The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron will host the first ever NZ Foiling Match Racing Championships in January as the popularity of foiling continues to increase.

Racing, which will take place on the waters adjacent to the RNZYS from January 13-17, will be in the Squadron's two Nacra 20 foiling catamarans. There are eight spots up for grabs to take part in the inaugural event and expressions of interest are open now.

The format will include a round robin, repechage for teams ranked third-seventh, a seventh and eight-place sail-off, semifinals and then the final.

The RNZYS will hold an international foiling camp prior to the event (January 6-10) with all travelling international teams encouraged to sign up for this to get some quality practice in before the championships the following week.

With the success of foiling on world sailing tours, America’s Cup, Sail GP, and other sailing disciplines, the Squadron are keen to encourage more sailors to get onto the foils in a match racing format.

"This is a great opportunity for upcoming sailors to test themselves on these high-performance foiling boats," RNZYS sailing director Laurie Jury said. "With the boats being provided by the RNZYS, it creates a level playing field and will give a great pathway to events such as the Youth America's Cup. 

"I also really hope to see some of the more experienced names in professional sailing taking up the chance to get back to basics and race in this event." 

The notice of race and expression of interest can be found here and for more information contact RNZYS sailing director Laurie Jury on ljury@rnzys.org.nz