Clipper Cup revisited - Mickey Ink Port Douglas Race Week

by Mick Gwilliams on 3 Feb 2015 A part of Australia's sailing heritage is alive and kicking in the far north.

An article about the 2014 passing of Australian sailing legend Lou Abrahams mentioned one of the many achievements of this remarkable man. The successful 1980 defence of the Pan Am Clipper Cup, the biennial team race series in Hawaii in the 1970's and 80's.

Australia won the event in 1978 represented by Syd Fischer (Ragamuffin), Marshall Phillips (Big Shot) and Tom Stephenson (Magic Pudding). Then successfully defended the trophy in 1980 represented again by Syd Fischer (Ragamuffin), Marshall Phillips (Sweet Caroline) and Lou Abrahams (Challenge).

The USA went on to win the 1982 and 1984 events before the demise of Pan AM in 1985 when the event became the Kenwood Cup.

The old Clipper Cup trophy found its way to Australia and eventually to a new home at Port Douglas Yacht Club, the eastern sea boards northern most yacht club.

Today that trophy sits on display at the club with these famous sailing names adorning the pedestal, preserving Australia's triumph and heritage of that old classic of years gone by.

As the regions premier sailing event this May the 2015 Mickey Ink Port Douglas Race Week will again give local and visiting sailors the chance to follow in the footsteps of the likes of Lou Abrahams. To race the winds of paradise for a chance to have their names added to the list of winners of the world famous Clipper Cup. A part of Australian sailing heritage alive and well in far North Queensland.

Visit www.portdouglasraceweek.com.au for more information and to get on board the 2015 Mickey Ink Port Douglas Race Week.