The Pallas Capital Gold Cup 2026 is set to enhance its reputation with several programs linked to the Admiral’s Cup joining the fleet. This change brings international expertise and proven competitive records to the local sailing scene.
Notably, the TP52 “Zen,” owned and skippered by Gordon Ketelby, is returning to Australian waters after expectations that it would remain in Europe following its recent international campaign.
Zen Campaign Manager Shane Guanaria expressed that the Gold Cup’s appeal was a pivotal reason for bringing the boat back to Australia. He noted, “We had every intention of selling the boat in Europe, but the Gold Cup has some of the best racing in the world at the moment. The calendar worked, the locations worked, and Gordon decided it was worth sending the boat home.”
The crew is also expected to include significant international experience, with many members from the Admiral’s Cup returning, including Mal Page, who will serve as tactician for Act 1 on 21 & 22 March, and Chris Nicholson, who will rejoin for the rest of the series.
Guanaria highlighted that bringing Zen back to Australia sends an important message to the local sailing community during a challenging period for the industry, where many boats have left the country. He stated, “For me it’s exciting to come back to Australia with Zen. It has been a tough few years for the industry, with more boats leaving than coming in. Gordon’s commitment to bringing the boat back and supporting the level of racing here is really important.”
He also pointed out the valuable connection between the TP52s and the Super 40 fleets, expressing enthusiasm about including the Super 40s in the series. “It’s fantastic to have the Super 40s included. It’s the basis of the Admiral’s Cup format and we have a really competitive fleet here,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Super 40 “Back 2 Black,” helmed by Sean Langman, brings additional Admiral’s Cup pedigree to the event. Langman, who partnered with the Zen program during its previous international engagements, approaches this division with a focus on intensity and development.
Langman described the Super 40 fleet’s appeal as straightforward: “Fast, fun, simple logistics.” He also values the accessibility and competitive depth this class provides, looking forward to both close racing and a new community of competitors.
As international campaigns converge at the Pallas Capital Gold Cup, the event increasingly positions itself as a hub for Australia’s finest and the wider international sailing community while also opening pathways for Australian youth and women to compete at the highest levels.
For more details regarding the Pallas Capital Gold Cup, visit www.GoldCupRegatta.com.
Thanks to title sponsor Pallas Capital, and also Zhik for their support of the class.
Nic Douglass – Content Manager || TP52 Class Australia
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