New Zealand Match Racing Nationals set for a thrilling showdown

Nick Egnot Johnson and his Knots Racing Team winning the 2023 NZMRC - they are set to defend their title at this year's event in November © Ella Sagnol/RNZYS

The New Zealand Match Racing Championship (NZMRC) will take place from November 14th to 17th at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, bringing together 16 top competitors in what promises to be an electrifying event.

Teams are just one week away from taking to the water in the RNZYS' fleet of Emirates Team New Zealand Elliott 7's and favourites are generating strong speculation. This year's competition is expected to be one for the books.

The depth of talent is underscored by three entries who competed in the prestigious Bermuda Gold Cup last week—one of the four pinnacle events on the World Match Racing Tour. Among the line up, is former Match Racing World Champion Nick Egnot-Johnson and his Knots Racing team who finished third in Bermuda, currently ranked as World No. 4. Egnot-Johnson is set to defend his 2023 NZMRC which was won against CYCA's Cole Tapper. With Tapper also entered for next week's event we expect to see some close racing between these Trans-Tasman rivals.

Also in the mix is World No. 6 Gavin Brady, a two-time NZMRC champion, whose presence alone raises the stakes. Other entries include former National Champion Reuben Corbett, also former coach of the Mastercard Youth Training Programme, and a specialist in the Elliott 7 class ranking Corbett high on many prediction lists.

As we look to the next generation of New Zealand Match Racing greats, we're eager to see Youth World No. 1 Josh Hyde and his Performance Programme Waitemata Racing team match up against these top sailors. Hyde and team are building momentum ahead of the Youth World Championship in December and will be primed to test their skills against former and current champions. Jordan Stevenson, with a crew of Youth Training Programme graduates, is also anticipated to be a strong challenger, poised to stir up the competition.

This year's lineup features not only seasoned competitors but also young up-and-comers and international entries, each bringing skill and energy to the event. With a diverse field and high-calibre crews, the 2024 New Zealand Match Racing Championships are set to deliver unforgettable matchups.

To view the full entry list, an stay up to date with event news and live results head to the event website.