Chasing the Podium: Australian Nacra 17 Team Gears Up for Crucial Kiel Week Showdown
This week, the Baltic Sea sets the stage for a crucial sailing test—the Kiel Week regatta. Australia’s Nacra 17 squad arrives in full strength, primed and ready. With a season of momentum under their sails, they have one clear aim—to parlay consistent performances into podium triumphs."
“Stepping onto the Baltic shores, National Squad coach Darren Bundock declares, ‘This is a brilliant chance to do some experimenting.’ Some teams will field critiqued tactics, strategies not yet tested in events as demanding as the World Championships, adding another level of anticipation to the competition.”
“Moreover, the regatta also provides a superior strategic advantage beyond the racing itself. Kiel is a stone’s throw from Eckernförde, which will host the coveted Nacra 17 European Championships later this month, providing near-identical sailing conditions and a perfect test run.”
“Despite a strong fleet of 20 boats for the competition, the intense rivalry isn’t fazing the Australian contingent. Bundock is candid about the squads’ positioning—‘We’re on the cusp, but haven’t yet ascended the crucial podium.’ But with faith unwavering, Bundock expects crucial improvements and strong performances in the upcoming regattas from Liddell, Brown, Gargett, and Hoffman.”
“As the Australian squad navigates through Kiel Week, its course remains steadfast—evolve, improve and keep the podium well within sight. Alongside experimentation and development, the ultimate ambition glows brigh—the prestigious prize of podium success.”
- •From Process to Podium: Australia's Nacra 17 Squad Eyes Kiel Week sail-world.com19-06-2026