With Doyle Sails’ roots firmly planted in New Zealand and SSANZ leading the global charge in offshore shorthanded sailing for more than four decades, this partnership brings together two icons of the sailing world. The Round North Island Race (RNI) is a true staple on the New Zealand sailing calendar, and the 2026 edition—its 15th—is expected to draw a strong fleet of national and international entries for the four-leg event in February next year.
From cruisers and weekend warriors to elite offshore racers, the RNI is a bucket list race for many. The Doyle Sails ethos—by sailors, for sailors—is reflected in the camaraderie on and off the water.
Mike Sanderson, President of Doyle Sails, has championed Doyle Sails’ support of sailing at all levels for many years, and despite the sailmaking world changing considerably within the last twelve months, this will not change.
“At our core, we are a bunch of sailors that are lucky enough to get to go to work every day and talk about boats and to share our passion for sailing with our fellow sailors of all calibres,” says Sanderson. “The opportunity to continue working with such a progressive and passionate association is an affiliation we are very proud of.”
Garry Jolliffe, current Chairman of SSANZ, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership: “We’re excited to have Doyle Sails on board as naming partner for the 2026 Round North Island Race. Their strong presence in the sailing world and ongoing support of offshore and shorthanded racing makes them a natural fit for this event. It’s great to partner with a brand that understands the unique challenges and rewards of a race like the RNI.”
The collaboration between Doyle Sails and SSANZ is set to further elevate the profile of the event and bring the world-class service for which Doyle Sails is renowned to the competitors of the Round North Island Race. The partnership will help to attract a dynamic mix of competitors and showcase the competitive spirit of offshore sailing while highlighting growth of blue water racing across New Zealand.
The Notice of Race will be available later this week at ssanz.co.nz. Limited entries (40 total) will be available for purchase on 8th May 2025. With just over 300 days until the start gun, the countdown is well and truly on.
