2026 29er Australian Championships conclude at Sandy Bay Sailing Club
The 2026 29er Australian Championships came to a close today at Sandy Bay Sailing Club after five intense days of racing and a total of 14 high-quality races.
Conditions throughout the championship were varied and challenging, putting both local and interstate sailors to the test. Often referred to as the “Garda of the South”, the venue lived up to its reputation, delivering exciting racing alongside demanding conditions. The final day allowed for just one race to be completed, sailed in light and unstable breezes, which led to some late changes on the leaderboard in Race 14.
After an incredibly close series, decided by just 0.4 of a point, Goro Tomishima and Orlando Sadlik (NSW) were crowned the 2026 29er Australian Champions, also securing first place overall in the Open division. Congratulations also go to Goro Tomishima, who was awarded first-place Junior Skipper.
Finishing a very close second were Finley Symonds and Alasdair Cameron (WA), who made a remarkable charge up the leaderboard on day four with three race wins and narrowly missed out on the overall title. Ethan Kiu and Louis Polson, representing Tasmania and Hong Kong, completed the podium in third place overall and also claimed first place Junior Team.
For the second consecutive year, Mia Austin and Zara Marks (NSW) were crowned Female 29er National Champions, finishing an impressive sixth overall. The first-placed female skipper in a mixed crew was Cate McCoy, sailing with Josh Garner.
The championship concluded with a final race day supported by Willie Smith’s Apple Shed & Willie Smith’s Cider. Throughout the week, teams were hosted at Sandy Bay Sailing Club, with additional event support provided by Derwent Sailing Squadron.
Following the event, the top nine teams from the championship have earned invitations to compete at the 2026 Open 29er World Championships in Kiel, Germany.
Full results, here
Photogallery by Amy Potter, here