With off-the-beach entries still being processed, numbers have reached 120 for the 2026 Jeanneau Yachts presented by Mooloolaba Yacht Brokers and 74 Islands Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW), hosted annually by Whitsunday Sailing Club (WSC).
On the water, Regatta Director, Jenni Birdsall, has the fleet away from this Friday, 7 August, continuing until 13 August.
New champions will be discovered and crowned on the final evening across Rating Passage, Performance Racing, Performance Cruising, Non-Spinnaker, Multihull Racing, Multihull Passage, Trailable Yachts & Sports Boats, along with the off-the-beach VX One, Weta 4.4 and One-Design classes and divisions.
Birdsall has put together a thoughtful racing program that will keep everyone on their toes, with a mix of island courses, a Bay Race and windward/leeward races, but the 74 Islands onshore component has plenty to whet the appetite too.
“We have it all covered, from fantastic racing in the beautiful Whitsundays where whales and other sea life put on free shows daily, to our onshore activities that we reinvigorate each year. There is something for everyone ashore, which is why so many competitors bring family and friends with them – and we encourage that,” said ABRW Chairman, Terry Archer.
Following registration on Thursday, the Festival Village at WSC will be open every evening, inclusive of live music, food trucks and beverages, when competitors will be welcomed to the Official Regatta Opening on the lawn at the Club.
WSC’s restaurant and bar are open daily and in the evening. Those wishing to have lunch or dinner at the Club should book in advance to avoid disappointment. It does get busy!
Ash Smith will kick-start the week of live entertainment from 1600 hours on Thursday evening. Following on is the Owners and Skippers Welcome Party.
On Friday morning, enjoy a free and fresh brew at the Ronstan Coffee Cart and try an Orbit Winch before you head out to the race track.
This year marks the return of Musto, so come and get kitted out at the Musto pop up shop at WSC on Thursday or after racing every other day.
Fancy going on the water for the start of racing on Day 1? ZigZag, locally owned and family operated, is providing their comfortable 80 foot cat, Superflyer (there is a bar on board), for a spectator cruise from 9.30am to 12.30pm. And in support of ABRW, ZigZag is offering a discount price of $45 per person. Book now at: https://booknow.operatorhub.travel/?token=992d7b417a9b197073800d3bf1f441d4
For those who prefer to stay ashore, there is a birds eye view of the Pioneer Bay starts from the balcony at WSC.
After Friday’s first races, there is the not to be missed 74 Islands Tasting Bar and frozen cocktails session from 1600-1800 hours, then dance the night away to The Fox, a high-energy cover and party band.
And returning by popular demand is Friday Night Movies in the Park in front of WSC for the whole family, starting at 5pm.
Other must book events (via the official website), include the final night ABRW three-course Presentation Dinner on the lawn amid the other final night celebrations, including a fireworks display.
For all information, including entries, head to: http://www.abrw.com.au
Di Pearson/ABRW media
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