Sailability Auckland, in partnership with the Ponsonby Cruising Club and Burnsco, proudly announces the successful conclusion of the Burnsco 2026 SKUD 18 International Match Race Challenge. Held on the Waitematā Harbour from 20 to 22 February 2026, the regatta marked a significant milestone as the world’s first international match racing event specifically designed for the high-performance SKUD 18 class, featuring crews of both disabled and able-bodied sailors.
Ten crews from New Zealand, Australia, and the United States competed in this inaugural event.
“What started as a simple conversation—’Let’s get some SKUDs in the water with crews of integrated sailors’—quickly became a reality,” said Paul Wager of Sailability Auckland. “This event was more than just a regatta; it was a powerful statement that the Paralympic dream for sailing is not just a possibility, but a tangible reality we are actively making happen.”
The regatta showcased the incredible potential for greatness when the playing field is leveled. Seeing able-bodied and disabled teams competing side-by-side provided a masterclass in skill, tactical brilliance, and sheer resilience that will be talked about for years to come.
Our massive congratulations to the 2026 podium finishers:
🏆 1st Place & Champions: Graham Hook & Darrell Smith – TBBC – NZL
🥈 2nd Place: Naomi Ooue & Joe Thompson – SYC – AUS
🥉 3rd Place: Neil Rowsthorn & Jack Wallace – SYC – AUS
The regatta was made possible because the wider sailing community and some awesome volunteers got behind a dream. Our sponsors – Bursnco, First Mates Last Laugh, Milner Mobility, PerMobil and many more, have now become an integral part of that community, helping us prove that support for inclusive sailing has never been broader.
About Sailability Auckland
Sailability Auckland is a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the lives of people with disabilities through the transformative power of sailing. We provide an inclusive community where everyone, regardless of ability, has the chance to experience the freedom and joy of being on the water.
Web: www.sailabilityauckland.org.nz
Facebook: @CityofSailsSailability
