Australian Team Claims Victory at 2025 John Messenger Women’s Match Racing Regatta
Sydney, Australia – September 8, 2025 – The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) was abuzz with excitement this weekend as Chelsea Williams and her team – Maddy McLeay, Paige Caldecoat, India Gilbert, and Clare Cini – secured victory at the 2025 John Messenger Women’s Match Racing Regatta. The team defeated New Zealand’s Ella Arnold in a thrilling final series, winning 3-2 after a fiercely competitive event.
The regatta, held September 6-7, saw intense racing with boats frequently vying for position at the top mark. The close competition culminated in a nail-biting final series that showcased the skill and determination of both Australian and New Zealand teams.
“It was one of the closest fought regattas we’ve seen in a while,” reported a source at the CYCA. “The level of competition was incredibly high, and the teams really pushed each other.”
Ella Arnold, along with her crew of Alissa Marshall, Phoebe Buckland, Sophie-Jo Hawkins, and Maddie Rist from the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, took a commendable second place.Rounding out the podium was the Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron’s team lead by Harriet McLachlan, with Jemma Hopkins, Alissa Branden, Katina Casimaty, and Abby Gilbert.
[Image of tight racing – Credit: Darcie Collington]
The John Messenger Perpetual Trophy, awarded to the winning team, holds special significance within the CYCA. It was rededicated as the John Messenger Trophy in 2018, honoring the memory of John Messenger, a dedicated CYCA member who passionately championed youth and women’s sailing programs before his passing in 2017.
This year’s regatta continues Messenger’s legacy, providing a platform for talented female sailors to compete and excel. The victory for Chelsea Williams and her team marks a meaningful achievement in Australian sailing and underscores the growing strength of women’s match racing.
Key Takeaways:
Winners: Chelsea Williams,Maddy McLeay,Paige Caldecoat,India Gilbert,and Clare Cini (Cruising Yacht Club of australia)
Second Place: Ella Arnold,Alissa Marshall,phoebe Buckland,Sophie-Jo Hawkins,and Maddie Rist (Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron)
Third Place: Harriet McLachlan,Jemma Hopkins,Alissa Branden,Katina Casimaty,and Abby Gilbert (Royal Sydney Yacht Squadron)
event: 2025 John Messenger Women’s Match Racing Regatta
Location: sydney,Australia
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