Moth World Championships Preview

The PredictWind Moth World Championships at Manly Sailing Club on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula, north of Auckland, is set to deliver high-octane racing action after the last world’s frustrating non-event in Weymouth, UK, where light winds kept the fleet ashore. This year, the scene couldn’t be more different, with 75 Moth sailors from around the globe descending on the picturesque Kiwi venue to take on the notoriously challenging local conditions.

In the lead-up to the main event, two days of pre-worlds racing were held in breezy conditions ranging from 17 to 28 knots. The high winds provided no shortage of drama, as the fleet of high-performance foiling weapons pushed the limits, resulting in spectacular action — and plenty of carnage on the water.

The pre-worlds podium saw local talent shine through, with Manly’s Mattias Coutts taking the win, closely followed by fellow local Jake Pye in second. American Magic & SailGP USA sailor Riley Gibbs (USA) rounded out the top three. In the women’s division, current WASZP World Champion and Athena Project AC40 sailor Hattie Rogers claimed victory, further cementing her reputation as one of the world’s top foiling sailors.

Jake Pye was the “unofficial” Moth World Champion after the last event in 2023 in Weymouth. Only two qualifying races were possible due to the complete lack of wind across the race course. This meant there was no world champion crowned, however, Pye won both his qualifying races which put him at the top of the leaderboard – he took the unofficial win!

This year’s fleet boasts an impressive lineup featuring a who’s who of yachting, including elite sailors from the America’s Cup, SailGP, and the Olympic circuit. All eyes will be on the world’s best as they battle it out on these high-speed, high-stakes machines.

Racing for the world championship title is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, January 4th, with three days of qualifying, followed by a reserve day and two days of finals. The fleet will be divided into two courses, Alpha and Bravo, to manage the large number of competitors. However, the weather may play a pivotal role — PredictWind’s latest forecast predicts winds of 24 knots gusting over 30 knots on the opening day.

Principal Race Officer Harold Bennett has expressed skepticism about whether racing will begin on schedule, given the potential for extreme conditions. “But things have been known to change,” he added optimistically, leaving the door open for a thrilling start if the breeze moderates.

One thing is certain—whether the wind gods cooperate or not, the PredictWind Moth World Championships promises to be an unforgettable showdown on New Zealand’s foiling stage. Stay tuned for updates as the action unfolds!

Words: Suellen Hurling for Live Sail Die & PredictWind

Photos: Suellen Hurling / Live Sail Die

Video: Sam Thom