The 2026 International Marblehead Class Australian Championship commenced today at the superb Emerald Lakes venue on the Gold Coast, hosted by the Paradise Radio Yacht Club, with a strong fleet of 19 boats contesting the national title.
Competitors were greeted with ideal racing conditions, with a steady south-easterly breeze allowing the fleet to race under B rig for the entire day, producing fast, tactical racing and a demanding test of consistency across the opening eight races.
At the conclusion of Day 1, Greg Torpy (QLD, AUS 25, Grunge) holds a narrow lead on 8 points, delivering an impressive and consistent performance that included four race wins. Torpy was particularly strong throughout the day, rarely putting a foot wrong as he established himself as the early benchmark.
Just one point behind is Lincoln McDowall (VIC, AUS 97, F6) on 9 points, who remained firmly in contention with a remarkably consistent scoreline, never finishing outside the top five and claiming two race wins of his own.
In third place, Brett Osborn (SA, AUS 79, Grunge) sits on 12 points, recovering well from an early discard to post a string of top-three finishes and remain well within striking distance of the leaders.
Former champion Andrew Reid (VIC) is positioned fourth on 24 points, while Mark Newman (ACT) completes the top five on 26 points, both remaining well placed as the championship progresses.
Further back, the fleet remains tightly contested, with multiple skippers showing flashes of speed throughout the day, highlighting the depth and competitiveness of this year’s championship.
With racing scheduled to continue tomorrow, 2 March, and concluding on 3 March, the championship remains wide open. While Torpy has established an early advantage, both McDowall and Osborn are well placed to challenge, and with more races to come, consistency will be key in deciding the 2026 Australian Champion.
Progressive results are available at: https://aryanationals.com