The Millennium Cup class embarked on a course west through the Rakino Channel, rounding the Noises before heading back toward Rangitoto Island. Sharlou took line honours, completing the course in an impressive two hours and fourteen minutes, yet it was Sea Eagle that emerged victorious after corrected time adjustments. Despite finishing last in today’s race, Kawil’s consistency throughout the regatta secured her the overall title. The real battle was between Sassafras and Sea Eagle. Sassafras, which had been in strong contention for second place, fell just short in the final corrected-time battle, allowing Sea Eagle to claim second place overall.
In the Pacific Cup class, the final race saw another dominant display by Hikurere, which not only crossed the finish line first on corrected time but also secured a perfect regatta score of four wins from four races. Steinlager led for much of the course and was first to finish, but the time adjustments shifted the results in favour of Hikurere. The battle for second place in the class remained fierce, with Lion New Zealand and Innismara trading positions throughout the final stretch. The corrected-time system ultimately placed Innismara just behind Lion New Zealand, confirming the latter’s runner-up position in the overall standings.
The concluding race was a fitting end to a regatta that once again showcased the competitiveness that defines the Millennium Cup. With conditions offering an advantage to smaller yachts on the final day, the outcome underscored the importance of handicap adjustments in levelling the playing field. The regatta continues to play a key role in promoting New Zealand’s marine industry and highlighting its status as a premier sailing destination.
Attention now turns to what the next edition of the Millennium Cup might bring.
