2025 Oceania & Australian Championships at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Manly Queensland saw sailors from Pacific Island nations Samoa and Fiji joining those from New Zealand, Asia, Europe and North America along with all Australian states and territories There were 224 sailing in five fleets in the three ILCA classes. The championships featured a mix of challenging conditions over 12 races, pushing sailors to their limits. Competitors demonstrated exceptional versatility from strong south-easterly winds at the start to lighter tactical breezes later in the week.
Vaimo’oi’a Ripley, Samoa’s first female Olympic sailor, and Viliame Ratulu, a standout from Fiji, both delivered strong performances in the ILCA 6 and ILCA 7 classes, respectively. Ripley and Ratulu embraced the conditions, using the event to refine their skills as they set their sights on future milestones, including the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
“It’s wonderful to see more Pacific Island nations being represented,” said ILCA Oceania President Ken Hurling OAM. “Last year, Samoa was the sole Pacific nation competing, and this year we are thrilled to welcome Fiji. These athletes inspire their communities and showcase the immense talent emerging from the Pacific.”
Read more in ILCA Oceania Press release Here.