Harken International Youth Match Racing Regatta - photo supplied by RPAYC
Harken International Youth Match Racing Regatta - photo supplied by RPAYC

After two round robins of racing at the Harken International Youth Match Racing Regatta on Pittwater, the top four teams have been identified.

The Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club’s teams skippered by Alistair Read and Juliet Costanzo have snared two of the four spots in the semifinals, finishing tied 3rd and 4th  respectively on 12 wins.

Top ranked seed (World Sailing open ranked 20) Mathew Whitfield representing Penarth Yacht Club (Wales) is ranked 2nd on 14 wins, behind regatta leader Alastair Gifford representing the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (NZL) on 16 wins.

International Youth Match Racing Regatta 2 - photo supplied by RPAYC
International Youth Match Racing Regatta 2 – photo supplied by RPAYC

On getting into the top four a happy Costanzo commented “We (the girls), are really enjoying sailing together. We are not phased on who we get paired up to race against tomorrow, as we feel like we have a good shot at the three higher placed teams!”

“We are hoping that our fellow club members come out and cheer loud for both Alfred’s teams, so we can capitalize on the home team advantage!” commented a spirited Costanzo.

The semifinals and finals are scheduled to take place tomorrow (Sunday 24thNovember), with racing getting underway at 1000hrs.
Tonight Alastair Gifford, as regatta leader will have the luxury of picking his opponent for the semi finals.

The finals will be available on live stream through Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/royalprincealfredyachtclub/

Live Results can be followed throughout the day at: https://www.matchracingresults.com/2019/harken-international-youth-championship/