Issue date
Six of our Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron Lion Foundation Youth Training Programme sailors will get the opportunity of a lifetime tomorrow when they join the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge for
match racing on board two ex-America’s Cup yachts. Our six talented sailors have been hand-picked by Commodore Steve Burrett to sail with the Royals on NZL68 & NZL41.
The Duke and Duchess will race against each other in three match races, with the crew made up of Emirates Team New Zealand members and six of our best youth sailors. Grant Dalton will be accompanying Prince William and Dean Barker with Princess Kate, setting up a wonderful afternoon of photo opportunities.
The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron will be managing the racing which will commence at 1.30pm off Princes Wharf, and using Squadron committee boat Te Kouma to start and finish official proceedings. Although weather dependent, there is a good chance the Royals will be sailing past the Squadron during their races, meaning RNZYS will be a fantastic spot to catch a glimpse of the onwater
action.
The weather conditions are expected to be a little damp; however the forecast 5-10 knot northerly winds will be sufficient for the match race to go ahead.
Following the racing, at approximately 3pm, the Duke and Duchess will be whisked away on Sealegs inflatable speed boats, passing by the Squadron on their way to Westpark Marina. This will provide another great viewing opportunity from the Squadron, allowing plenty of photo and viewing opportunities. They are expected to pass by the Squadron between 3.10pm – 3.15pm.
The Youth Training Programme members sailing tomorrow will be available to the Media at the RNZYS following the event.
