Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) announces the inaugural Lord Howe Ocean Race, set to take place in alternate years starting this October. Following the success of the Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race, this 890 nautical mile event will commence from Broken Bay in Pittwater on Friday, during the October long weekend. Competitors will navigate around Balls Pyramid, returning to Pittwater, creating a continuous offshore passage that eliminates the need for post-race logistics.
A special perpetual trophy will be awarded to the first boat to be engraved, along with the opportunity to set a race record. This race is a continuation of the legacy established by the Gosford to Lord Howe Island Yacht Race, discontinued in 2014. The RPAYC aims to provide an exciting offshore racing experience, featuring one of Australia’s most stunning ocean courses.
Balls Pyramid, known as the world’s tallest sea stack, is located approximately 11 nautical miles southeast of Lord Howe Island and is part of Australia’s Lord Howe Island Marine Park. This race offers crews a chance to round a dramatic offshore landmark while exploring a World Heritage-listed area.
RPAYC Commodore Rob McClelland expressed excitement about the race’s launch, noting the positive responses received from potential participants. He highlighted the logistical advantages of the race, describing it as a true Pittwater to Pittwater event that meets Category 1 challenge standards, a rare opportunity in Australia.
The race is open to fully crewed monohulls, double-handed monohulls, and fully crewed multihulls, subject to compliance. Entries are currently open, with an early bird discount available until 1700 hours on 1 September 2026. For more details, visit the race’s official page at https://rpayc.com.au/lord-howe-ocean-race/.
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