CYCA announces Admiral's Cup Team for 2025

The TP52 Zen racing out Sydney Heads during the Club Marine Ocean Pointscore © CYCA | Ashley Dart

The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) is proud to announce the Club's entry for the highly anticipated return of the Admiral's Cup in 2025.

Representing the CYCA and Australia will be Zen, the well-known TP52 owned by Gordon Ketelby, and BACK 2 BLACK, a Fast 40/GP42 owned by Sean Langman.

This historic regatta has been a cornerstone of the sailing calendar since its inception. After a hiatus, the Admiral's Cup return is eagerly awaited by the global sailing community, and the CYCA is delighted to be part of this exciting revival.

Australia has a proud history in the Admiral's Cup, with the nation achieving a remarkable victory in the most recent edition of the event. Australia emerged as the champion in 2003, led by Bob Oatley and Colin O'Neil, marking the culmination of decades of excellence and dedication in offshore sailing. The CYCA is honoured to continue this legacy by fielding a team that embodies the same competitive spirit and skill that led to Australia's historic win.

"We are thrilled to see the Admiral's Cup return to its rightful place as a premier event in offshore sailing," says CYCA Commodore Sam Haynes. "The CYCA is incredibly proud to field a strong team in Zen and BACK 2 BLACK, both led by experienced and passionate sailors."

Zen has demonstrated exceptional performance in domestic waters, and Sean has purchased the Fast40/GP42 just to compete in this regatta. A dedicated sailor, Sean has an enormous amount of ocean racing experience, having sailed boats ranging from 18 foot skiffs to 100 foot maxis.

Sean shares that competing in the highly anticipated Admiral's Cup will be an honour, "It's the opportunity of a lifetime to represent both the CYCA and Australia. I'm looking forward to racing on the Solent and competing once again in the Rolex Fastnet Race. It's a dream come true."

The Australian team will go up against elite competitors representing prestigious international yacht clubs such as the Royal Ocean Racing Club, Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, Yacht Club de France, New York Yacht Club, Royal Maas Yacht Club, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, and Bayersiche Yachtclub.

The Admiral's Cup 2025 promises to be a thrilling competition, bringing together the best offshore sailors and yachts from around the world. The CYCA looks forward to supporting our team as they prepare for this prestigious challenge and encourages all members and supporters to rally behind them.