Waitemata Racing (Josh Hyde, Sofia Higgott, Zach Fong, Mason Mulcahy and Cody Coughlan) have secured their place on the world stage after an outstanding performance at the Youth Match Racing Worlds Trials over the weekend, earning the honour of representing New Zealand and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) at the 2025 Youth Match Racing World Championships.

Over two intense days of racing, Waitemata Racing showed precision and determination, defeating Ethan Fong and his team with a decisive 3–0 sweep in the finals. Their commanding performance has booked them a ticket to compete against the best youth match racing teams in the world.

Team helmsperson Josh Hyde said:

“This result means a lot to our team. Having the opportunity to return to the Youth Worlds for a second year is huge for us, and we’re excited to have another shot at bringing home the world title. It’s also a great stepping stone as we head straight to the Governors Cup in Los Angeles afterward, continuing our tour and building on this momentum.”

“Winning the trials has been a real lift for the team – it’s proof that all the hard work and training we’ve put in has paid off, and it’s helped us push our match racing to a whole new level.”

This opportunity comes after a strong campaign in 2024, where Waitemata Racing finished fourth at the Youth Match Racing World Championships in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Now, with more experience under their belts, their clear goal for 2025 is to win the world championship and bring the trophy home to New Zealand.

About the 2025 Youth Match Racing World Championships

World Sailing has announced that the Polish port city of Gdynia will host the 2025 Youth Match Racing World Championships, which will run from 21–27 July 2025 as part of the renowned Gdynia Sailing Days festival.

  • Gdynia Marina, the site for the upcoming 2027 World Sailing Championships, will be the event’s venue.
  • Racing will take place in the RS21 one-design keelboat, a class selected for its ability to deliver tight, tactical, and skill-based match racing.
  • The RS21 ensures a level playing field, making the strategy and crew work the deciding factors in victory.

With a larger fleet, a premier venue, and evenly matched boats, the 2025 Worlds promise an electrifying showcase of youth match racing at its very best.

Let’s Get Behind Waitemata Racing!

As they prepare to take on the world, Waitemata Racing will carry the hopes of New Zealand sailing fans to Gdynia. With their sights firmly set on the top of the podium, their journey is only just beginning — and the best is yet to come!

Venue of the 2025 Youth Match Racing World Championships. Gdynia, Poland