Napier sailors secure multiple podiums at Auckland Anniversary Regatta 2026

Ekhi de Jager, 15, finished fourth in the Starling Open Fleet in challenging conditions. Photo / Napier Sailing Club

Young sailors from Napier Sailing Club secured multiple top placings at the Auckland Anniversary Day Regatta, held on January 26, with four podium finishes across the Optimist and Starling classes.

The event was raced in strong winds and a steep, short sea state created by a wind-against-tide pattern.

Facing some of the toughest conditions of the season, Napier’s Blake Duncan, 14, won the Optimist Open Fleet, while 10-year-old Frankie Barker finished first in the Optimist White Fleet.

Frankie Barker, 10, finished first in the Optimist White Fleet. Photo / Napier Sailing Club

In the Starling Development Fleet, 12-year-old Georgia Barker placed second, and 15-year-old Ekhi de Jager finished fourth in the Starling Open Fleet.

Napier Sailing Club’s spokesman Dan Barker said the results showed the depth of skill being developed in the region’s junior programme.

“These are outstanding results at a major regatta,” he said.

“For a regional club to come away with wins in multiple fleets – in those conditions – is proof that the Napier SC junior programme is heading in the right direction.”

The results will be recognised at a prizegiving at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in the coming weeks.

Beyond the podium placings, several other Napier sailors recorded solid finishes across their fleets, including top-10 results in some classes.

The Napier sailors were supported by three coaches, who provided on-water guidance throughout the regatta. The club brings experienced international coaches to Hawke’s Bay each season to support the junior programme.

Napier Sailing Club manager Andrew Kearney also played a national role at the regatta, serving as Race Officer for the major course.