Dear Fellow sailors, guests, volunteers, officals’ and members,
It is with immense pleasure that we welcome you to the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) for the 2025 Hansa World and International Championships, as well as the Para World Championships. This landmark event will bring together 182 sailors from 19 countries, supported by over 130 dedicated volunteers and officials, all converging on our picturesque Pittwater.
RPAYC has a proud history of promoting inclusivity and excellence in sailing. Our commitment to adaptive sailing dates back to 1997 when we hosted the Hobie 16 Trapseat World Championships for sailors with disabilities. This tradition continues as we prepare to host the upcoming championships, which will feature competitions in five Hansa classes, including the Hansa 2.3, Hansa 303 (one-person and two-person), Liberty, and SKUD 18.

We are honored to welcome back esteemed sailors such as Paralympic gold medalist Dan Fitzgibbon, who will be competing in the SKUD 18 class. Their participation, along with that of other distinguished sailors like Vera Voorbach (NED), a past world and European champion in the Liberty class, and Paul Phillips (GBR), second at the 2023 Hansa Worlds, underscores the high caliber of this event.
This championship is not just a competition—it is a celebration of equal opportunity in sailing. The Hansa class is uniquely designed to accommodate sailors of all abilities, from able-bodied athletes to those with significant physical impairments, ensuring that everyone can experience the freedom and joy of sailing on an even playing field. RPAYC is proud to serve as the venue for this prestigious event, showcasing our dedication to inclusivity and the spirit of sailing for all.

To our members, your unwavering support and enthusiasm are invaluable. We encourage you to actively participate in the event, whether by volunteering, attending races, or extending a warm welcome to our guests. Your involvement enriches the experience for all and exemplifies the camaraderie that defines RPAYC.

To our guests, we extend our heartfelt welcome. We hope you feel at home and experience the hospitality that our club is renowned for. May your time here be filled with memorable races, new friendships, and a deepened passion for the sport of sailing.
Let us come together to celebrate this remarkable occasion, fostering a spirit of unity, competition, and mutual respect.

Warm regards,
Robert McClelland
Commodore, RPAYC