A fleet of five teams representing the Australian Defence community and veteran sailors took to Sydney Harbour this ANZAC Day Eve, renewing a powerful tradition of competition, camaraderie and remembrance at the second annual ANZAC Day Cup.

Hosted once again by the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron, the 2026 regatta brought together teams representing the Royal Australian Navy, Australian Army and Royal Australian Air Force, with two new teams from the Australian Defence Force Academy and the Saltwater Veterans racing in a spirit that honoured service while showcasing high-level sailing.

Each team was also joined by a member of the Australian Sailing Futures program, deepening the connection between the athletes and the Defence Personnel with shared stories, tactics and “friendly” advice being shared across the fleet.

Rear Admiral Lee Goddard CSC, Patron of ADF Sailing and Chair of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Committee, praised the event and its participants.

“I am very proud of all those who have served, are serving, and who will serve, who participate in our great sport of sailing. Many of the women and men who have served our country learnt their skills teamwork and discipline in the sailing clubs and in regattas across Australia,” said Goddard.

“As was once said to future World War Two pilots, if you want to learn to fly, go sailing. The Annual ANZAC Day Regatta at the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron was again a special day this year.”

At the end of the day it was the experienced heads aboard the Saltwater Veterans who won the regatta on a countback. Following racing there was Anzac Day Commemorative service honouring the sacrifice and service of Australia’s Defence Forces, giving participants and spectators the opportunity to share stories and recognise the deep ties between sailing and military life.

The regatta was another sign of the connection between Australian Sailing and the Australian Defence Forces, as noted by Australian Sailing CEO Malcolm Page OAM.

“We would like to thank Rear Admiral Goddard, the ADF sailors and the Australian Sailing Futures athletes for their time in making today such a success,” said Page.

“The 2026 ANZAC Day Cup reinforced its place as a meaningful fixture on the sailing calendar, one that not only celebrates performance on the water, but also the shared values of teamwork, resilience and service that unite all involved.”