Sails Up! Aussies Get Ready for IOM Oceania Championship, Lake Pegasus NZ
For the first major international IOM event in the Oceania Region since the 2024 World Championship in Gladstone, sailors from around the world are heading to Lake Pegasus, Christchurch, New Zealand. The 2025 IOM Oceania Championship, taking place from 30th September to 4th October, promises thrilling racing, fierce competition, and plenty of camaraderie.
The championship will feature 68 competitors from nine countries, including 17 Australians eager to test their skills against some of the world’s best.
New Zealand’s top sailors bring serious credentials—and a healthy dose of national pride. Ian Vickers, last year’s World Championship runner-up and current NZ national champion, will be looking to add another trophy to his impressive collection. Rob Nelson, a former national champion, will also be competing, bringing his proven experience on home waters. Adding even more spice to the Kiwi challenge is Phil “The Shoeman” Pryde, who recently took on the Aussies at the Eddie Cowell Regatta on the Sunshine Coast—only to stumble at the last hurdle, losing to Paul Jones in the final race. The Kiwis are determined to turn the tables at Lake Pegasus.
Australia’s strongest sailors will be representing the nation in force. Paul Jones and Sean Wallis, both five-time Australian Champions, lead a formidable line-up including Glenn Dawson, Greg Torpy, Doug Allen, Garth Halton, and others. They will be navigating Lake Pegasus’ calm yet sometimes unpredictable waters. With a mix of strategy, skill, and adaptability, the Australians are ready to face stiff competition—and to continue the friendly rivalry with their Kiwi neighbours, showing that the battle between Australia and New Zealand is as thrilling on the water as it is in any sport. Expect close battles, tactical manoeuvres, and plenty of spirited banter as the two nations go head-to-head.
But let’s not forget the international challengers. Chile will be represented by top sailors Pablo Alvarez and Pablo Walper. Spain brings Feliciano Ballestin, Guillermo Beltri, and Jose Vinaixa to the fray. Canada, the United States, Ireland, France, and China will also send skilled competitors, creating a truly global field. Many of these sailors are more than capable of claiming the trophy, making this championship a genuine test for every competitor on the water.
Lake Pegasus, with its scenic surroundings near Christchurch, provides an ideal backdrop for racing. The calm waters offer precision sailing challenges, while occasional gusty winds keep even the most experienced sailors on their toes. Beyond the racing, the event offers opportunities for friendship, cultural exchange, and celebrating a shared passion for radio sailing.
For Australians, the event represents both a competitive challenge and a chance to strengthen bonds with neighbours across the ditch. It’s an opportunity to share techniques, learn from different sailing styles, and enjoy the spirit of international competition in a supportive and friendly environment. And of course, it’s a chance to continue the friendly rivalry with the Kiwis, while keeping one eye on the international sailors who may upset the balance at any moment.
The 2025 IOM Oceania Championship promises not only high-level racing but also a celebration of community, sportsmanship, and the joy of sailing. We can expect close races, strategic battles, and moments that will be remembered long after the final race is over.
With competitors from nine nations, Lake Pegasus will become a hub of international sailing excellence. From the tactical manoeuvres on the water to the friendly exchanges off it, this championship is set to be a highlight of the year in Oceania.
Looking ahead, the Oceania Championship will be held in Australia for the first time in 2027, giving local sailors the exciting opportunity to host the international fleet and showcase our finest sailing venues.
For more information, schedules, and updates on the event, visit the official championship website: iomoceania.com
Team Australia
- Sean Wallis (AUS71 / V12)
- Paul Jones (AUS48 / Venti)
- Glenn Dawson (AUS76 / V12)
- Greg Torpy (AUS125 / V12)
- Garth Halton (AUS40 / V12)
- Doug Allen (AUS72 / V12)
- Aaron Farrar (AUS34 / V12)
- Andrew Wilson (AUS161 / Viss)
- Gary McCarthy (AUS181 / GC24)
- Adam Viney (AUS09 / V12)
- Lindsay Walker (AUS02 / V12)
- Paul Morrish (AUS178 / Venti)
- Ben Thorburn (AUS70 / K2)
- Edgar Vitte (AUS95 / V12)
- Roger Paul (AUS66 / V12)
- Murray Walker (AUS10 / Viss)
- Derick Warne (AUS197 / BritPop!)