Cruising Yacht Club of Australia Dominates in 2025 Helly Hansen International, Securing Joy Ride Perpetual Trophy for the Second Time

Australia’s sailing stars shone brightly as the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) came out on top in the fiercely contested Helly Hansen International in 2025. The event saw them win the coveted Joy Ride Perpetual Trophy for the second time, outshining their American rivals led by Jeffrey Petersen.

The triumphant team, helmed by Cole Tapper, also included Max Brennan, Jack Frewin and Hamish Vass, showcased superior skill and tactical acumen, dominating the Final Series. Despite encountering spinnaker issues in one race causing them to sail without it momentarily, they held their ground. Their resilience was put on spectacular display when they bounced back swiftly, leaving their opponents in their wake.

Tapper’s crew opened strong, winning the first race before Petersen levelled the series. Their intimate knowledge of the Elliott’s came to bear in the proceeding races, as they displayed near-flawless handling, winning the next two starts and outpacing their American rivals to seize the Joy Ride Trophy.

The event marked the first time CYCA had the privilege to host since the World Sailing Youth Match Racing World Championship in 2023–a testament to the club’s rising prestige on the global stage, where Tapper and Petersen had previously secured Silver and Bronze medals respectively.

The 2025 Helly Hansen International saw a broad age range with the category extended to under 25. It proved to be a wise decision, registering exceptional participation from five nations, with Canada making its debut, solidifying the event as Australia’s premier match racing tournament and the country’s sole World Sailing Grade 2 event.

Victory spirits high, many competitors including Tapper and Petersen, now gear up for a cross-country sailing bout in Perth, Western Australia. The Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club will host the 2025 Warren Jones Regatta on the Swan River, from Tuesday 27 to Friday 31 January, in what promises to be another stellar event.