Celebrating women in sailing: the 30th anniversary of the Helly Hansen MYC Women's Challenge
by Manly Yacht Club 22 Jan 2025 15:02 PST
22-23 March 2025
Helly Hansen MYC Women's Challenge © Margaret Fraser-Martin
The Manly Yacht Club (MYC) invites skippers and their crews to join the 30th Anniversary of the Helly Hansen MYC Women's Challenge, taking place over the second-last weekend of March 2025.
This milestone event celebrates three decades of empowering women in sailing, fostering community, and promoting competitive spirit on the water.
Since its inception in 1995, the MYC Women's Challenge has stood as a testament to MYC's dedication to supporting women and girls in sailing. The initial concept, spearheaded by Ivana Gattegno, gained momentum with sponsorship from Cristal D'Arques, which supported the event for twelve years. In 2011, Helly Hansen stepped in as the major sponsor, marking the event's transformation into the Helly Hansen Women's Challenge, the flagship event of the Manly Yacht Club.
In 2015, the event broadened its scope to include juniors and laser fleets, introducing a Saturday race to complement the keelboat races on Sunday. This expansion reflects the growing enthusiasm among women for the sport and underscores MYC's commitment to inclusivity and development at all levels.
The impact of this passion extended even further with the creation of the Sydney Harbour Women's Keelboat Series. This multi-club competition brings together challengers from across the harbour, showcasing the vibrant sailing community. Manly Yacht Club played a foundational role in this series, which began in 2019, and the Helly Hansen Women's Challenge proudly serves as the fifth and final race of the series.
This year's event promises excitement and inclusivity, with activities tailored to diverse participants:
- Saturday, March 22, 2025: Junior, Hansa 303, and ILCA fleets will take to the water, highlighting emerging talent and providing a platform for skill development.
- Sunday, March 23, 2025: The keelboat races will feature various entry options, including female-helmed teams, all-female crews, and spinnaker and non-spinnaker divisions, ensuring opportunities for sailors of all experience levels.
The 30th Anniversary of the Helly Hansen MYC Women's Challenge is not just a competition; it's a celebration of women's achievements, resilience, and passion for sailing. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a newcomer eager to embrace the sport, this event offers a chance to be part of a rich tradition and a vibrant community.
Mark your calendars and set your course for Manly Yacht Club this March. Together, let's celebrate three decades of women's excellence on the water.
For more information and online entry see the event website.