An Exciting Weekend of Nautical Milestones: Marking 90 Years of 18 Footer Racing on Legendary Sydney Harbour

As the sun kissed the briny waves of Sydney Harbour, a special kind of jubilation was in the air. This was no ordinary weekend of sailing – it marked an impressive milestone, the 90th anniversary of 18 Footer Racing on Sydney’s breathtakingly expansive waters.

An air of excitement was palpable. The Australian 18 Footer League, first incepted on that same harbour back in 1935, was all set to honour its rich heritage. With an aim to keep the global field of aficionados up to speed with the thrilling action, the club arranged a livestreamed spectacle, carried out with the precision of a professional commentary team.

The league’s thoughtful inclusion in scheduling the starts according to craft size and speed spoke volumes about their eye for detail while honouring their storied past. As the smaller, slower boats glided through the water at 2pm, mid-size vessels followed suit at 2.30pm. The grandeur finally culminated with the majestic 18 footers at 3pm. Sponsors Shaw and Partners Financial Services matched the impressive maritime spectacle with a vibrant function at Double Bay’s Steyne Park.

The celebration did not lose momentum, keeping spectators on their toes through the Balmain Cup - Super Sprint Series. As the weekend reached its zenith, the Queen of the Harbour event crowned the thriving nautical extravaganza; an unforgettable toast to nine decades of thrilling water competition. A fitting celebration of a much-loved racing tradition.