The Royal Geelong Yacht Club (RGYC) recently hosted a spectacular Victory Party to celebrate the incredible achievements of its cadet sailors at the ABP Cadet Class World Championship 2024 in Plymouth, UK. Held on Friday, September 6th, the evening brought together RGYC members, family, and friends for a memorable night of pride and celebration.

Pictured: GoGG Mayor, Trent Sullivan addressing the audience.

Distinguished guests, including Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan and Principal Catherine Lockhart, attended to honour the cadets’ remarkable performances. Former RGYC Commodore Peter Stephens led a panel session with the cadets, during which they shared insights into their experiences at the World Championship, providing attendees with a deeper understanding of their journey.

Pictured: Josh Garner (left), Will Garner (middle) and Cate McCoy (right).

World Champions Josh Garner and Jack Benyan presented a framed and signed photo of their winning moment to RGYC’s new Commodore, Paul Buchholz, marking a significant moment in the club’s history. Their triumph, which included a decisive final race victory, highlighted their talent and the strong support they received from the RGYC community.

Pictured: RGYC Commodore, Paul Buchholz (left), Jack Benyan (middle) and Josh Garner (right).

RGYC cadets Cate McCoy and Will Garner, who finished 10th overall, and Will Farnell and Louis Davis, who placed 15th, were also celebrated for their strong performances. Their determination and teamwork reflected the depth of skill within RGYC’s cadet program.

Tony Bull, one of the cadet coaches who accompanied the team to the UK Internationals, also spoke on the night, sharing stories from the competition and offering insight into the hard work and dedication that brought these outstanding results.

Pictured: Tony Bull

The evening was a fantastic celebration, with live acoustic music by Saxon Drummond, delicious meals from the club café, and a complimentary dessert bar that added to the festive atmosphere. Special thanks were given to Vicki Groves for her hard work in helping organize the party, as well as to the parents, friends, and family members who attended, making the night a truly memorable one.

As the night came to a close, the sense of pride in RGYC’s young sailors was palpable. The Victory Party was a fitting tribute to their world-class achievements and the dedicated community that supports them. It will undoubtedly be remembered as a standout event in the club’s history.

GO RGYC!

Photography credited to Smeaton Photography.