Sydney Harbour will once again come alive with colour, community and competition when the Pride Regatta returns for its second year, bringing together LGBTQ+ sailors, allies and sailing clubs from across the harbour for a joyful celebration of diversity in sailing.

Set against one of the world’s most iconic sailing backdrops, the Pride Regatta is more than a race. It is a statement of inclusion, visibility and belonging—an opportunity for the sailing community to come together under the Pride flag and affirm that our sport is for everyone.

Following a successful inaugural event, the Pride Regatta will be held as a one-off add-on division alongside RANSA’s regular Friday twilight race on Friday, 13 February, making it accessible, welcoming and seamlessly integrated into Sydney’s sailing calendar.

A Regatta with Purpose

Now in its second year, the Pride Regatta was created to provide a visible, inclusive platform for LGBTQ+ skippered yachts, sailors and allies to participate together in a supportive and celebratory environment. While sailing has long been built on teamwork, trust and camaraderie, the Pride Regatta highlights the importance of ensuring everyone feels safe, welcomed and represented—both on and off the water.

Event organiser Jorgen Kristoffersen says the regatta plays a vital role in balancing visibility with genuine inclusion.

“The Pride Regatta is about being visible, but it’s just as much about being welcoming,” Kristoffersen said. “By flying the Pride flag on Sydney Harbour, we’re sending a clear message that LGBTQ+ sailors belong in our sport. At the same time, the regatta is open to everyone—friends, allies and clubs—because true inclusion happens when the whole community sails together.”

Sailing Under the Pride Flag

Few settings carry the symbolic power of Sydney Harbour. As yachts gather for the twilight start, Pride flags flying across the fleet will create a striking visual statement—colourful sails and flags set against the harbour’s blue waters and city skyline.

By running alongside RANSA’s established twilight race, the Pride Regatta removes barriers to participation while maintaining the excitement and integrity of competitive sailing. Crews of all experience levels are encouraged to take part.

Strong Support Across the Sailing Community

The Pride Regatta is proudly supported by Australian Sailing through its Sail Our Way initiative and by Pride in Sport, Australia’s leading inclusion program for sporting organisations.

The event is also proud to welcome Helly Hansen as its main sponsor, reinforcing the shared values of performance, community and inclusivity in sailing.

Strong backing from harbour clubs—including Greenwich Flying Squadron, RANSA, Balmain Sailing Club and the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA)—underscores the broad community support for the event.

More Than a Race: The Pride Regatta Village

Following the race, sailors, crew, supporters and spectators are invited to gather at the Pride Regatta Village, located next to the RANSA clubhouse at Rushcutters Bay. The Village offers a relaxed and welcoming space to celebrate, connect and reflect on the day’s racing.

Get Involved: Registrations Now Open

Registrations are now open for yachts and the crew bank, making it easy for sailors of all experience levels to participate.

• Yacht owners can register their boats
• Individual sailors can join the crew bank and be matched with a yacht

Whether you identify as LGBTQ+, an ally, or simply believe in inclusive sport, the Pride Regatta welcomes you.

Register now at: www.prideregatta.com

Looking Ahead

As the Pride Regatta enters its second year, it continues to grow in impact and significance. Each Pride flag flown on Sydney Harbour and each crew formed through the event contributes to a more inclusive future for sailing in Australia.

The Pride Regatta is a reminder that while competition brings us to the start line, community brings us together—on the water and beyond.