The 2025 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race will be remembered for its remarkable winner—Min River. This yacht made history as the first double-handed entry to claim the prestigious Tattersall Cup. What makes this victory even more special is that it’s the first time a woman, Jiang Lin, has skippered a winning yacht.
Jiang Lin, who co-skippered with Frenchman Alexis Loison, expressed her surprise and joy at the victory. “I hope it inspires more women to try sailing,” she said. Lin, who moved to Sydney in late 2023, named her boat after a river in her parents’ home province in China.
However, the race was not without controversy. The outcome hinged on a protest involving another boat, BNC-myNet/Léon. Initially, Quintin and Rigal, the crew of BNC, seemed to be ahead after finishing first among the double-handed entries. But their hopes were dashed due to a breach of a sailing rule regarding sail sheeting.
In racing, adherence to rules is crucial. The protest was filed by the Min River team, but they later withdrew it before it was formally reviewed. Yet, BNC’s crew realized they had made an error and admitted it, prompting the race committee to take action. The International Jury ruled against BNC, imposing a time penalty that ultimately changed the race results.
This year’s race was significant for double-handed entries, which only began allowing participation in 2018. While BNC’s team was disappointed, they accepted the jury’s decision gracefully. Quintin reflected on the positives, noting their achievement in being the first double-handed boat to finish the race.
Statistics show that participation in sailing events has been growing, especially among women. Data from the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia indicates increasing female involvement in sailing, with more women entering races every year. Events like this one serve as motivational platforms to encourage broader participation.
Overall, the 2025 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race was not just about winning but also about breaking barriers and making history. Min River’s achievement, despite the tumultuous end, showcases the evolving landscape of sailing and highlights the importance of sportsmanship.
For more comprehensive coverage, you can refer to the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia.
Source link
Global Sports, Sailing
