Port Douglas revs up for revived Clipper Cup race regatta

RACE WEEK

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Brian Morgan and Peter Chapman with the coveted Clipper Cup Trophy, which has an intriguing history originating from Hawaii. Picture: Newsport

The Port Douglas Yacht Club has kicked into high gear for the return of the Clipper Cup Race Regatta, marking a significant milestone in the region's events calendar.

After a hiatus due to COVID-19 and a cancellation last year, the event is back on track, with organisers more enthusiastic than ever.

The regatta, a sailing spectacle that typically draws 30 boats from along the Queensland coast, will take place from May 14th to 18th.

Peter Chapman, Head of the Race Week Committee at Port Douglas Yacht Club, highlighted the anticipation surrounding the event.

“As the largest regatta event in Far North Queensland, we're eagerly looking forward to hosting it once more and welcoming boaters from as far as Airlie Beach and Townsville to our beautiful paradise,” he said.

With an expected turnout of 10 to 15 yachts, including notable figures like ex-Commodore Doug Ryan, the regatta promises thrilling competition and scenic views. 

"There's a course laid out in front of the Port Douglas Yacht Club, with passage races around Snapper Island, Low Island, and back, or vice versa, depending on the wind,” Mr Chapman explained. “It's quite a sight and can get quite competitive and hairy sometimes.”

Intriguing history

Originating in Hawaii in 1972, the Clipper Cup has a storied history, eventually finding its way to Far North Queensland. 

It was once contested on the waters of Hawaii. Now it’s the prized trophy at Port Douglas Race Week in Far North Queensland. But how did this valuable lump of silverware make such a journey?

Originally a leisurely 755-mile race around Hawaii, it evolved into a biennial event drawing sailors worldwide, with sponsorship from Pan American Airlines. Transported to Australia by Dick Cooch, it found its home in Port Douglas in 1994. 

The Cup's legacy commenced alongside the Mirage Resort Clipper Cup's maiden race in 1995, originally intended to launch Port Douglas Carnivale. However, due to unfavourable winds for northward racing, the event was rescheduled to the week preceding Carnivale instead.

This year, the race week begins a week earlier than usual, commencing on Tuesday, May 14th. It spans four days of competition with a lay day in between, depending on wind conditions. The festivities culminate on Saturday, May 22nd, with a presentation night honouring the winners.

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