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Sailing News Summary for May 23, 2025

Today’s sailing digest features bold moves and close racing. U.S. SailGP’s Mac Agnese welcomes Michael Menninger back to the squad ahead of New York, while Team New Zealand answers critics by releasing the draft Protocol for AC38 with major changes and a 2027 venue confirmed. In Australia, Doyle-powered teams swept the TP52 series, and crew chemistry takes center stage in a practical guide from Mike Toppa. On the youth and development front, World Sailing launches the Steering the Course festival to empower women worldwide. Cruisers get expert advice on choosing offshore crews, while TF35 foilers hit the water in Switzerland with X-WING joining the fray. Plus, don’t miss the highlight video on the dramatic 2024 Sydney to Hobart.

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Sail GP/America’s Cup

Mac Agnese Welcomes Menninger to U.S. SailGP Team (4 min read)
U.S. SailGP Team Grinder Mac Agnese is excited to reunite with Michael Menninger as the team prepares for the New York Sail Grand Prix. Menninger brings elite experience from the America’s Cup and multiple world titles, and his arrival is already making an impact during the team’s 76-day race break. Agnese sees clear areas for improvement and believes consistency and focus will be key to climbing the leaderboard this season.

America’s Cup: Team New Zealand Strikes Back with Draft Protocol Release (5 min read)
Team New Zealand has released the full draft Protocol for AC38 in response to public criticism from challengers Athena Racing and American Magic. The 75-page document outlines major changes including a new management partnership, a six-person crew mandate with youth and female sailors, and stored battery power replacing manual grinding. The move aims to counter accusations of secrecy and reinforce a more transparent and collaborative America’s Cup future, with Naples confirmed as the 2027 host city.

Inshore & Offshore Racing

Doyle-Powered Teams Sweep 2025 TP52 Australian Series (3 min read)
The 2025 TP52 Australia Series wrapped up with Doyle-powered teams claiming a clean sweep at the Pallas Capital Gold Cup. David Doherty’s Matador secured both TPR and IRC titles for the season, while Smuggler and Koa followed closely, completing a Doyle-dominated podium. With strong performances in both pro and Corinthian divisions, the season highlighted Doyle Sails’ reputation for innovation, support, and elite racing performance.

Youth Sailing/Development

Global Festival Celebrates and Empowers Women in Sailing (5 min read)
World Sailing’s 2025 Steering the Course festival runs May 23–June 1, spotlighting gender equity and opportunity for women in sailing worldwide. Events kicked off early in Brazil and Chile with over 300 participants, combining racing with environmental education and community celebration. From Sri Lanka to South Africa, sailors of all ages are engaging in races, workshops, and taster sessions aimed at inspiring new generations. The campaign theme, #AccelerateAction, aligns with this year’s International Women’s Day focus.

Cruising

Finding the Right Crew for Offshore Sailing (6 min read)
Lifelong friendships at sea don’t happen by chance. Jill Gallin shares practical advice for setting expectations, assessing compatibility, and managing health, safety, and responsibilities before embarking on an offshore passage. From evaluating a boat’s systems to aligning meal plans and communication protocols, thorough preparation is key to avoiding conflict and ensuring a smooth voyage. Her insights are drawn from four years of cruising and five major ocean crossings.

Sustainability

RYA Supports Surge in Sewage Pollution Investigations (4 min read)
The RYA has welcomed a record 81 criminal investigations into UK water firms after a 400 percent rise in inspections since July 2024. This government crackdown follows a year of 3.61 million hours of sewage discharges, sparking calls for stricter enforcement. With possible jail time for water bosses and major fines looming, the RYA hopes continued oversight will lead to cleaner waters for public health and recreational use. The Clean Water Sports Alliance has been key in pushing for accountability.

Tech & Gear

Protecting Diesel Engine Air Filters with a Smart Relocation (3 min read)
Stew Proud tackled a costly problem aboard his Aquastar Ocean Ranger 33 by relocating vulnerable diesel engine air filters using silicone radiator hoses and copper fittings. The new setup avoids damage from misplaced boots, saves on replacement costs, and uses washable K&N filters for longevity. With heat-resistant materials and a DIY-friendly approach, this upgrade is a practical fix for many engine types.

Foiling

X-WING Joins the TF35 Trophy Fleet (4 min read)
Former alpine ski racer Marco Favale has traded snow for speed, launching the new X-WING team in the TF35 Trophy. Favale, drawn to the sleek, high-tech foiling catamarans, brings onboard talent fresh from the America’s Cup, including Manu Dyen, Nicolas Charbonnier, and Yves Detrey. The 2025 TF35 season begins May 23 at the Nyon Grand Prix in Switzerland, where six teams will battle in light winds. For Favale, sailing a TF35 is “more like piloting” and this season’s goal is clear: challenge the best and enjoy the ride.

Tight Racing Heats Up at Formula Wing Europeans Day 3 (5 min read)
Day three of the 2025 Formula Wing European Championships delivered action-packed racing after a wind delay, with tight competition across both fleets. Italy’s Maddalena Spanu surged to the top of the women’s leaderboard, while France’s Mathis Ghio dominated the men’s races heading into the gold fleet. Hong Kong’s Hugo Chow made history with a race win, and several under-19 riders broke into top positions. With medal series spots on the line, the event heads into a critical final stretch.

Sailing Highlight of the Day

A long but golden video of the 2024 Sydney to Hobart (Full Race Documentary!)

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