This year’s regatta promises fierce competition among a fleet of ten identical Young 88 boats, all racing in one-design style near the Northern Leading area. As one of New Zealand’s top events for competitive one-design racing, the championship brings together both seasoned champions and ambitious challengers, each vying for the title of North Island Champion in this classic 43-year-old class.
Back to defend his title from 2023, Harry Thurston will skipper Dangerzone, hoping to replicate last year’s success. Known for their strong teamwork and tactical precision, Dangerzone will have to fend off tough competition, especially from Nick Gillies and his crew on Waka Huia. As the 2022 champion, Waka Huia is primed to reclaim the title and oust Dangerzone from the top of the leaderboard.
Danger Zone. 2023 Y88 Owners Champs. Photo: Adam Mustill / Live Sail Die
Waka Huia. 2023 Y88 Owners Champs. Photo: Adam Mustill / Live Sail Die
Adding to the excitement, Karyn Drummond and her team on Flash Gordon are set to make waves. With a reputation for consistency and a recent winning streak, Flash Gordon is rarely seen off the podium, and Sunday’s forecast conditions of a 10-knot northerly seem tailor-made for this boat’s strengths. Many anticipate a strong showing from Dummond’s crew, who are always tough to beat in light to moderate wind conditions.
Flash Gordon. 2023 Y88 Owners Champs. Photo: Adam Mustill / Live Sail Die
Meanwhile, Gavin Haslip on Babe brings his dedication and recent upgrades to the fore. Known for their near-constant presence on Auckland’s start lines, Haslip and his crew have put in significant work on Babe over the past few seasons, aiming for greater speed and maneuverability. After placing 6th in 2023, Haslip is determined to improve, and Sunday’s conditions may provide the edge they need.
Babe. 2023 Y88 Owners Champs. Photo: Adam Mustill / Live Sail Die
With clear skies and a 10-knot northerly on the forecast, the stage is set for a thrilling day of racing. The Young 88 class remains a staple of New Zealand sailing, offering some of the best one-design racing in the country. Even after more than four decades, the class remains highly competitive, highlighting the skill, strategy, and camaraderie that keep both new and seasoned sailors coming back year after year.
2024 North Sails Young 88 Northern Owners Championships Entry List
- War Machine (Chris Macindoe)
- Undercover (Mark Tapper)
- Paddy Wagon (Gary Fowler)
- Babe (Gavin Haslip)
- Heartlight (Roger Sims)
- Waka Huia (Nick Gillies)
- Dangerzone (Harry Thurston)
- Flash Gordon (Karyn Drummond)
- Smokey (Wayne Mackenzie)
- Fatal Attraction (Mark Nicholls)
