A Tradition of Tenacity, The Kitchen Maker Makes Waves at the 18ft Skiff World Championship

Having been part and parcel of 18ft skiff racing’s history for the past 91 years, tradition holds a place of reverence. Amidst this historical canvas, many daring sailors, with the aid of generous sponsors, have gloriously skimmed across the waters, captivated the spectating crowd, and written their names in the annals of the Australian 18 Footers League.

The team of Lachlan Steel, Jerome Watts and George Morton, sailing under the long-standing sponsorship of The Kitchen Maker, recently illustrated a saga of resilience and fortitude at the 18ft Skiff World Championship, the 2026 JJ Giltinan. Sailing in an intricate ballet with the winds and waves, they managed to secure a commendable 10th position in a fleet of 27 nautically proficient teams from six nations. Their journey to the championship saw them secure several top-10 finishes, including an agonizingly close second-place finish in Race 3.

George Morton, a familiar figure amongst the team, lent an invaluable amount of experience and know-how. After moving from Brisbane, he quickly clicked with the crew, adding a vibrant energy and forming a solid foundation for their campaign. A mere month was enough for the trio to gel so wonderfully and bring their A-game at the championship.

Every ripple they carved and every gust they tacked bore witness to their unwavering spirit and boundless energy. Their story serves as a testament not only to their love for the sport but also the unyielding support of their sponsors, ensuring that their legacy continues to sail through the waters of history.