Expressions of Interest are being sought for the proposed Lord Howe Island – Balls Pyramid Ocean Race, which is set to cover approximately 880 nautical miles. This new event aims to take place every alternate year from Pittwater, following the success of the Sydney–Auckland Ocean Race. The race plan includes a continuous offshore passage starting from Pittwater, travelling to Lord Howe Island, then to Balls Pyramid, and finishing back in Pittwater.
The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) will serve as the organising authority. The event will comply with the Australian Sailing Special Regulations for Category 1 Offshore Racing, ensuring high safety and performance standards. All yachts must meet full Category 1 requirements, which include provisions for storm sails, liferafts, emergency steering, long-range communications, and crew safety certifications.
Racers will find the format advantageous as it eliminates the need for post-race logistics associated with returning to the starting point. The intended start date is set for the October Long Weekend in 2026, with final arrangements confirmed in the Notice of Race once it is established.
Participation eligibility will be open to offshore racing yachts meeting Category 1 specifications, holding valid rating certificates—either IRC or ORC—and demonstrating adequate offshore capability. Indicative divisions expected for participation include Line Honours, IRC, and ORC categories.
This initiative aims to foster a structured annual challenge as part of the broader context of RPAYC’s offshore racing calendar. Organisers wish to gauge interest through this Expression of Interest process, which will assist in understanding fleet size, compliance readiness, division planning, and overall event viability. Interested yacht owners are invited to submit their details, including yacht name, size, compliance status, and likelihood of entry, by 30 April 2026.
Click HERE to complete the EOI form.
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#LordHoweIslandYachtRace #SailingAustralia #RPAYC #OceanRace
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