Foil Bay of Islands 2025 set to return Feb 21-25, with new memorial race
by Hana Hielkema 29 Jan 03:00 PST
29 January 2025
Foil Bay of Islands - Feb21-23, 2025 © Jacob Fewtrell Media
The prestigious Foil Bay of Islands event returns for 2025 with an epic program, new sponsors, and a special memorial race honoring a beloved foiling community member.
The three-day competition, scheduled for February 21-23, 2025, will bring together the world's top foiling athletes across multiple disciplines and will run from the Bay of Islands Yacht Club.
This year's event introduces the JJ Rice Memorial Islands Race, commemorating an extraordinary athlete who competed in five previous editions. The island race, sponsored by About Being Seen and the Rice Family, will take place on Friday 21st February and feature a newly commissioned trophy.
JJ Rice, who was set to represent Tonga in the Olympics, was a passionate advocate for the sport, a friendly face to many, and a constant presence at Foil Bay of Islands since its early years.
FOIL Bay of Islands 2025 features an innovative roadshow format, with launches alternating between Baylys Beach and Bay of Islands Yacht Club (BOIYC). All foiling classes are welcome, including Wing, Windfoil, and divisions, Kitefoil New Zealand Open Championships with the popular social wing fleet returning for another year. Regatta organiser Chris Fewtrell is excited for the event to unfold;
"What started as a wild idea to have a foiling regatta in the Bay of Islands has blossomed into something truly special. We're seeing athletes from all skill levels - from those just finding their foiling legs to Olympic competitors - come together to share their passion. The spirit of camaraderie here is unique, and it's incredible to watch how this event has become a must-attend fixture for so many in the foiling community. We're counting down the days until we can welcome everyone back to the Bay," he says.
Armstrong Foils continues their strong support with $10,000 in spot prizes, while new sponsor PredictWind joins the event, providing competitor apparel and introducing cutting-edge technology that promises to revolutionize the competition experience. The Copthorne Bay of Islands returns as accommodation partner, with Jacob Fewtrell Media providing premium coverage at special rates.
Evening festivities will continue the tradition of nightly dinners at BOIYC, fostering the strong community spirit that defines FOIL Bay of Islands.
Registrations are now open through the Bay of Islands Yacht Club website www.boiyc.org/foil-bay-of-islands
Key info:
Registration Link: www.boiyc.org/foil-bay-of-islands
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