Day 4 - Finals - Harken Int. Youth Match Racing Championship 2025

Day 4 of the 2025 Harken International Youth Match Racing Championship began with a delayed start as the race committee awaited a breeze to build. A gentle and variable north-easterly promised a tricky day of light, shifting breeze as the event moved into the semi-finals. Race Officer Ted Anderson summed it up simply: “It’s going to be a Dustbowl.”

The standings heading into the semi-finals were incredibly tight, with New Zealand sailors claiming the top four spots after a demanding Round Robin 2. Samuel Scott led the pack with a strong 14–4 record, followed closely by Robbie Wooldridge on 13–5. Zach Fong held third on 11–7, creating a tense atmosphere as the fleet transitioned into the knockout stages.

Samuel Scott drew boat number 1 at the morning briefing and chose Zach Fong as his opponent.

Ethan booked the first ticket to the final after a hard-fought semi-final against Robbie Wooldridge. Wooldridge took an early lead, but Ethan remained patient, reeling him back in downwind and striking when it mattered, ultimately securing victory with a clean final lap.

On the other side of the draw, Zach demonstrated his prowess in his semi-final against Samuel Scott. Despite the pressure, Zach’s downwind speed was exceptional, allowing him to dominate the match and take a 2–0 victory, setting up an all-Fong final.

The Petit Final, featuring Robbie Wooldridge vs. Samuel Scott, was equally intense, with Scott capitalising on early mistakes from Wooldridge. Despite Wooldridge’s tenacity, he could not break through, allowing Scott to claim third overall.

As the afternoon unfolded, the Finals were set for a dramatic face-off between brothers, Zach Fong (#1) and Ethan Fong, in a first-to-three format to determine the champion.

Both teams were ready on Pittwater as the variable breeze hovered below 10 knots. Zach, the older brother, noted the sibling rivalry was genuine. Ethan, with more recent experience, was eager to showcase his skills.

The highly anticipated finale delivered action from the start, with the brothers closely matched on the course, exchanging leads and tackling tricky shifts. Although Ethan led early, Zach stayed competitive, identifying the opportune moment to advance. On the penultimate gybe of the second match, Zach executed a decisive move, maintaining the lead through to the finish and achieving a 3-0 victory.

The celebrations erupted, with the team jumping into the water as they revelled in their victory. Zach Fong emerged as the 2025 Harken Youth Match Racing Champion, while Ethan’s commendable performance did not go unnoticed. Meanwhile, Samuel Scott clinched third place against Robbie Wooldridge in the Petit Final.

The regatta concluded with festivities and presentations at RPAYC, marking a successful week of world-class youth match racing. A heartfelt thanks went out to all sailors, coaches, officials, volunteers, and supporters for their contributions to the event’s success, making it an unforgettable experience on Pittwater.

Congratulations to all competitors, particularly Zach Fong and his team!