Lieutenant Emma Barry of the British Royal Navy has captured the sailing world’s attention by earning the Yachting New Zealand & SheSails NZ Top Female Helm, Island Racing trophy for her outstanding performance at the helm of Mako II. Representing the UK, Barry guided Mako II to an impressive second-place finish in their division at the Bay of Islands Sailing Week. This achievement not only underscores Barry’s exceptional skill but also reflects the growing presence of women in leadership roles within competitive sailing.
The Bay of Islands Sailing Week showcased several talented women skippers who delivered remarkable performances. Mikayla Plaw helmed the Melges 40 Sassinate to victory in the Open A Division, while Anne Hirst steered the Magic 25 Team Sex in the sport boat division. Holly Patterson took charge of the Elliott 650 Rum Jungle in Island Racing – Spinnaker Division 4, Melissa Logan commanded the Wright 12m Aeolian in Island Racing – Non-Spinnaker, and Casey Bellingham skippered the Warwick 50 Fez, a 15.3-metre yacht from 1986. These women exemplify the evolving face of competitive sailing, where women continue to excel and inspire on the water.
On the global stage, women helms continue to make headlines. Martine Grael recently made history as the first woman to helm in the SailGP competition, leading the Mubadala Brazil SailGP Team with distinction. In the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, Annika Thomson continued to inspire, helming Ocean Crusaders J-Bird to secure the Jane Tate Memorial Trophy for the third consecutive year in 2024. Not far behind, Stephanie Kerin skippered Active Again to another strong finish, adding to her legacy as a previous winner of the coveted trophy. These achievements reflect the growing prominence of women skippers in both local and international sailing events.
Breaking barriers: Women at the helm
Yachting New Zealand’s National Sport Development Director, Raynor Haagh, views this initiative as a pivotal step towards transforming the sport. “The idea of ‘You need to see it to be it’ is powerful,” says Haage. “Seeing female helms in action can inspire others to try helming and encourage those already involved to continue – knowing our community values their efforts.”
The trophies have garnered significant support and sparked a positive shift within the sailing community. Haagh believes events like the Bay of Islands Sailing Week, with its inclusive structure and diverse divisions, provide an ideal platform for female sailors to hone their skills and showcase their talent.
Barry agrees, describing the experience as ‘truly special. “The competition was thrilling, and the camaraderie onboard Mako II made the week unforgettable.” she says. “The opportunity to rotate through all positions on the boat not only enhanced our skills but strengthened us as a team.”
Mako II and the Royal Navy connection
Mako II, a 12-metre Chico 40 yacht, is part of the Royal New Zealand Navy’s Experiential Leadership Squadron, which also includes sister vessels Manga II and Paea II. These yachts, while modest in performance compared to modern designs, are robust and versatile, serving as platforms for leadership and team-building exercises.
The Chico 40, a New Zealand-built design by Gary Mull, is known for its sturdy construction and offshore cruising capabilities. Originally introduced in the 1980s, the yachts have been integral to the Royal New Zealand Navy’s training programmes, offering a unique environment where leadership, navigation, and seamanship skills are put to the test.
In 2021, all three yachts received a significant upgrade, with new 50hp Volvo D2 diesel engines installed by Ovlov Marine. This upgrade ensures they remain in top working condition, suitable for everything from leadership training to competitive sailing events like the Bay of Islands Sailing Week and the Coastal Classic.
Building momentum for women in wailing
Lieutenant Barry’s achievement is emblematic of the growing momentum behind initiatives like SheSails NZ. As female sailors like Barry continue to break barriers and lead by example, they are inspiring a new generation to take the helm.
With Yachting New Zealand’s ongoing efforts to foster inclusivity and the continued support of events like Bay of Islands Sailing Week, the future of sailing looks brighter and more diverse. As Barry herself put it, “The thrill of competition and the opportunity to develop our skills in such a supportive environment have been invaluable. I’m honoured to represent the Royal Navy and to be part of this incredible initiative.”
The success of Mako II and the recognition of Barry’s contributions serve as a reminder that the tides are turning in competitive sailing. Women are not just participating but excelling, and importantly, expect to excel, at the highest levels, paving the way for others to follow.
