LIPTON CHALLENGE CUP SAILS INTO THE MOTHER CITY
The Lipton Challenge Cup, Africa’s premier offshore sailing regatta, is back in Cape Town this August after a five-year absence.
Table Bay will host the 70th anniversary regatta from 27 – 31 August 2024.
Host club Royal Cape Yacht Club will be aiming to defend the title they won last July in Durban. The Royal Cape Nitro team will be Skippered by Mike Hayton who has won the competition on two previous occasions.
For the 2024 edition, the club will partner with the City of Cape Town which has come on board as a sponsor.
“The City acknowledges the importance of the Lipton Challenge Cup, and the role that the Royal Cape Yacht Club (RCYC) plays in sail-training and uplifting disadvantaged sailors from all walks of life. Their support is validation of the important role the RCYC plays in the sport of sailing, transformation and upliftment” said Alan Haefele, Commodore of the Royal Cape Yacht Club.
PREMIER SAILING ON SHOW
For Cape Town, the sailing event’s return to the Mother City represents more than just racing.
“It provides an opportunity for not only sailors to showcase their skill but hosting it in Cape Town has a far-reaching impact. It provides an opportunity for local boat manufacturers to showcase their capabilities, assists the City in its objectives of creating an enabling environment to attract investment that generates economic growth, and of course promoting Cape Town as a premier tourism destination,” said Alderman JP Smith, Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security.
“The City of Cape Town is proud to continue its long-standing partnership with Africa’s premier offshore sailing regatta.”
The Lipton Challenge Cup brings together over 70 coastal and inland sailing clubs from around the country annually for a thrilling showcase of sailing prowess, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
The winning club not only gets the opportunity hoist the one of the oldest sporting trophies in the country but also get the honours tp host the competition the following year.
