Last chance for early bird entries for Masters Games in Canberra
by Harry Fisher, Down Under Sail 23 Jul 23:52 PDT
20-24 October 2025
The Hobie fleet is expecting a strong turnout - Australian Masters Games © Canberra Yacht Club
More than 200 sailors are expected to hit the waters of Lake Burley Griffin in Canberra this October as part of the 2025 Australian Masters Games, a multi-sport event bringing together weekend warriors from around the country to share in an extensive sport and social program.
The sailing component of the Games is being hosted by the Canberra Yacht Club and YMCA Sailing Club from 20-24 October 2025.
Open to competitors aged 30 and over, the five-day regatta will feature racing for several different divisions that will include dinghies, trailable yachts, multihulls and accessible classes such as the Hansas.
Canberra Yacht Club General Manager Steve Hart said the Games marked the third time the club had hosted the sailing component, following events in 1997 and 2003.
"We're seeing it as a showcase event," he said.
"We're teaming up with the YMCA Sailing Club and hoping to get a lot of different classes and divisions out on the water to really showcase the nation's capital."
Located in the heart of Canberra, the lake offers an ideal setup for competitors and their families, with spectator-friendly vantage points and easy access to nearby attractions.
"Families can be five metres from the start line cheering on, or they can head off and explore some of the city's attractions," Hart said.
"Quite often with sailing clubs you're out on the coast, but Lake Burley Griffin is right in the middle of the city."
Race scheduling will be managed dynamically, with SMS alerts used to inform sailors of the most likely start times based on the weather conditions, which will give participants the chance to explore the city rather than wait around on shore.
Hart said spring time typically delivered consistent westerlies and the club hoped to use multiple areas of the lake, including the iconic Central Basin, if conditions allowed.
"We're expecting it to be a pretty full-on event and one that people won't want to miss," he said.
Entries are open via the Australian Masters Games website, with early bird pricing available until 27 July, which offers sailors a chance to secure an entry early and save some money.
Skipper registrations close on 7 September and crew entries are due by 10 October, while participants must also complete Games registration by 19 September and hold a valid Australian Sailing number.
The regatta will be complemented by a social program including daily BBQs and a Friday evening presentation.
Whether you're a regular racer or returning to the sport, the Masters Games offers a unique opportunity to compete, connect and enjoy one of Australia's most unique and challenging sailing venues.