This is the first time that Graeme Taylor, Richard Allanson (CYCA Member) and James Mayo, claim the honour. Sailing AUS1486 Magpie, the trio were ecstatic when they crossed the finish line of the final race.
For CYCA member Richard Allanson it is the second time that he can claim this title, having previously done so in 2019. It is an incredible demonstration of determination and skill.
“I’m just so happy!” said an excited Taylor, the result having not yet sunk in, as he sat on the media boat shaking his head.
“I’ve been sailing with James Mayo and Richie Allanson for a long time now, and really, the whole project has been to leave no stone unturned.”
“Both the boys have just put their absolute all into it. The boat and sails are immaculate, and we have everything you could possibly ask for, so we’re very lucky and fortunate.”
“I thank James for how good the boat is, and Richie is the ultimate workhorse; he just works his absolute butt off to get the job done.”
“During these events, you learn a lot about each other and how we’re all different, and that’s been an interesting journey as well. But I love both the guys, and to win the World Championship here in Australia, there’s nothing better. I’m absolutely thrilled.”
Taylor was on board Andoo Comanche when they had the line honours win ripped away from them in the final moments of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race after LawConnect rolled them at the finish, so this win brings something extra special for him.
“After losing the Hobart race on Comanche by 30-odd seconds, that was pretty tough. The first thing we said when we went across the line down there (in Hobart) is let’s not lose the Etchells Worlds and make it a double whammy,” laughed Taylor, with the realisation that he had pulled off a World Championship win finally becoming a reality.
“We’ll savour it and party long into the night and enjoy it. It’s not every day you win a World Championship and I’ve finally done it. I’ve won! We’ve won!!!”
“I’ve had three seconds, a third, and every other place between ten and twenty, and I’ve been sailing these boats for 20 years. It’s not an easy event to win, and to finally win one, well, I’m just over the moon.”
But it didn’t come easy for them. They were deep up the first work, and it was AUS1518 Flying Higher, Jeanne-Claude Strong, Seve Jarvin, Sam Newton, and Max Jameson who claimed the Race 9 win. They led the from start to finish in a building southerly.
The CYCA was represented by three teams:
- First Tracks (Peter Merrington, Ian McKillop & Steve Jarvin) 6th overall
- Flying Higher (Jeanne-Claude Strong, Seve Jarvin, Sam Newton, Max Jameson) 11th overall
- Great White Hunter (David Dunn, Alexander Higgins, Ben Morrison-Jack) 22nd overall
The full results for the Etchells 2024 World Championship can be found here
