The 2024 New Zealand Match Racing Championship kicked off in style at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) today, setting the stage for a high-stakes weekend on Auckland’s Waitematā Harbour. Sixteen elite teams, including returning champions, rising stars, and international rivals, are battling it out in the fleet of Elliott 7m sportsboats, promising a showcase of intense, close-quarters racing.
The lineup is a who’s-who of match racing talent, with four previous champions and crews from as far as Australia, New Caledonia, Ireland, and Great Britain. With the first day’s races complete, fans and competitors alike are eagerly awaiting more action in this prestigious event, renowned for its thrilling head-to-head format.
Elliott 7m Sportsboats: The Perfect Racing Machines
The chosen boat for this year’s championship, the Elliott 7m sportsboat, is purpose-built for intense and fast-paced match racing. Known for their stability, manoeuvrability, and trailerability, these seven-metre keelboats have been a mainstay at RNZYS and are a favourite for training and competition. The fleet is outfitted with Emirates Team New Zealand’s own Elliott 7s, adding an extra layer of prestige to the event. With their responsive controls and spacious cockpits, the Elliott 7s are ideal for this high-calibre competition.
Day One Highlights: A Showdown of Champions and Rising Stars
The day’s action opened with Group A’s seven-flight Round Robin, featuring standout performances from seasoned champions and up-and-coming talent.
In the first flight, reigning champion Nick Egnot-Johnson (Knots Racing, NZ) immediately set the pace, securing a victory over George Pilkington (Fig Jam Racing, NZ). Egnot-Johnson, a two-time NZMRC champion and former world champion, has teamed up with Gavin Brady, another two-time champion, and the pair showed early promise with their synergy and strategic acumen.
Elsewhere, Noah Malpot (VMG Racing, NZ) delivered a powerful performance, winning against Ethan Fong (Quest Racing, NZ) and later defeating Robbie McCutcheon (RNZYS, BR) in a thrilling showdown that highlighted Malpot’s sharp tactics and ability to adapt under pressure. As a representative for New Zealand in the upcoming Youth Match Racing World Championship, Malpot’s strong showing today proves his readiness for international competition.
Another formidable presence on the water was Max Paul (Team Max Paul, AU), who brought his A-game from across the Tasman. Paul racked up wins against Rory Sims (Rowdy Racing, IRL) and Pilkington, demonstrating the tenacity and precision that have earned him a strong reputation.
Biggest Winners and Early Favourites
By the day’s end, Egnot-Johnson, Malpot, and Paul emerged as the day’s biggest winners, each posting impressive victories that position them as early favourites in the championship. Egnot-Johnson’s deep experience in high-level match racing and his collaboration with Brady adds an element of intrigue as the tournament advances. Yet Malpot, with his intense focus and tactical skill, is proving to be a fierce competitor and potential challenger to the reigning champ.
As Round Robin continues tomorrow, all eyes will be on the potential showdown between Egnot-Johnson and Corbett, the defending top finishers, who are each in separate pools. This matchup is likely to be one of the event’s highlights, pitting experience against ambition and promising unforgettable racing.
Looking Ahead
With the Super Sixteen round, quarter-finals, and finals scheduled over the next three days, the 2024 New Zealand Match Racing Championship is just getting started. The competition is fierce, and the stakes are high, as top match racers vie not only for the championship title but also for a legacy in New Zealand’s storied match racing history. The RNZYS, as always, is providing a world-class stage for these talented sailors to push their limits and deliver a spectacular display of match racing excellence.
Stay tuned as the battles continue to unfold, with New Zealand’s match racing stars and international challengers set to deliver unforgettable moments on the water.
