Sailing Champions League to return to Corio Bay

THE “club versus club” sailing competition known as the VIC Sailing League is back at the Festival of Sails in 2023, as local teams battle it out for the chance to compete in the SAILING Champions League’s Asia Pacific finals.

Launched in 2013 and run in 24 countries around the world, the league features teams of four sailors in short-course races.

The league was introduced into Australia in 2019 by Olympic sailing gold medallist Mark Turnbull.

Since then, it has expanded to state leagues in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, and Western Australia.

“This year we’ll have two days of jam-packed sailing during the Festival of Sails on Thursday, January 26 and Friday, January 27, which promises to be fast and furious,” Turnbull said.

“Entries are now open and we’re looking forward to more than 100 local sailors – men and women – taking to Corio Bay for the racing action, which will make for perfect spectator-friendly racing.”

The racing is divided into two categories – Under 22 and Open – with the course to be situated in Corio Bay, providing qualification for the top Victorian teams to compete against the best at the SAILING Champions League: Asia Pacific Final scheduled for May .

“Geelong is a great place for this event and knowing we’ll be part of the 180th anniversary celebrations for its iconic Passage Race is a bonus,” Turnbull said.

For more information about the VIC Sailing League, including Notice of Race and Online Entry, head to sailing-championsleague.asia/vic-sailing-league-2022-23