community - 2026-06-01

RPAYC to launch biennial Pittwater–Lord Howe Island–Balls Pyramid offshore race in 2026

Source: rpayc.com.au

Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) at Pittwater has announced a new Category 1 offshore yacht race to Lord Howe Island via Balls Pyramid, with the inaugural start set for the Friday of the October long weekend in 2026. For Northern Beaches sailing crews, it brings a major ocean-racing fixture back onto the calendar from a local base at Pittwater, with a course designed for experienced offshore sailors.

Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) at Pittwater has announced a new Category 1 offshore yacht race to Lord Howe Island via Balls Pyramid, with the inaugural start set for the Friday of the October long weekend in 2026. For Northern Beaches sailing crews, it brings a major ocean-racing fixture back onto the calendar from a local base at Pittwater, with a course designed for experienced offshore sailors. RPAYC says the race will run from Pittwater in Broken Bay to Lord Howe Island, around Balls Pyramid, and then return. The club describes the event as a Category 1 challenge in the Tasman Sea and estimates the distance at approximately 890 nautical miles for the round trip. Category 1 offshore races are designed as serious, challenging events and typically require extensive safety preparation and compliance. RPAYC notes the Notice of Race and Category 1 special regulation requirements are still being finalised, with information described as “under construction” pending the formal race documentation. RPAYC has flagged the Lord Howe Island Ocean Race as a biennial event, to be held in alternate years. The club has linked the announcement to its offshore racing program, saying it...