The Friendship Cup returns: A celebration of sailing and sportsmanship
by Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club 4 Mar 19:31 NZDT
1 March 2025
After a seven-year hiatus, the prestigious Friendship Cup has made its long-awaited return to the local sailing calendar, bringing together the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club (NCYC) and Lake Macquarie Yacht Club (LMYC) in a spirited offshore race. The much-contested event, first raced in 2005, had been put on hold due to the challenging navigation conditions of Swansea Channel, which has now been successfully dredged, allowing this historic rivalry to set sail once more.
The 2025 edition of the Friendship Cup saw competitors line up for an exhilarating offshore course that commenced in Newcastle Harbour, extended north to the Sygna Mark in Stockton Bight, then south to the Glenrock Mark near Dudley, before concluding back in Newcastle. With ideal racing conditions, the competition was fierce as the best sailors from both clubs battled for the coveted trophy.
The return of the Friendship Cup is a testament to the strong bond between NCYC and LMYC, two clubs with a shared passion for sailing and sportsmanship. The race has long symbolised the camaraderie and competitive spirit between the two clubs, and its revival marks a significant moment in the region's sailing history.
"We are thrilled to see the Friendship Cup back on the racing calendar," said Jack Buchan, Sailing Manager of Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club. "The dredging of Swansea Channel has allowed us to reconnect with our friends at Lake Macquarie Yacht Club and reignite this fantastic tradition."
The 2025 race delivered an exciting finish, with Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club ultimately securing the Friendship Cup based on the top three performing boats from each club. However, the true victory lies in the return of this cherished event, celebrating the joy of sailing and the enduring friendship between NCYC and LMYC.
As the Friendship Cup now resides at NCYC until its next contention, both clubs eagerly anticipate the continuation of this great rivalry in the years to come. With Swansea Channel now open for safe passage, the future of interclub sailing in the region looks brighter than ever.