The 2026 International Ten Rater Australian Championship will be sailed from 5–7 March 2026 at the picturesque Emerald Lakes on the Gold Coast, Queensland, with the event proudly hosted by the Paradise Radio Yacht Club (PRYC).
Widely regarded as one of the most technically demanding classes in radio sailing, the Ten Rater combines high-performance yacht design with precise tactical racing. The Gold Coast venue has proven itself a superb championship location, and the sheltered waters of Emerald Lakes are expected to provide a variety of conditions for the three-day regatta.
A fleet of 24 competitors from across Australia will contest the championship, representing clubs from Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and the ACT. The entry list features a strong mix of experienced national champions, accomplished and emerging competitors, ensuring a highly competitive championship.
Among the key contenders is Andrew Reid (AUS 74, Albert Park MYC), a past Australian Champion and one of the most accomplished skippers in the class. Reid’s experience and consistency in major regattas make him a serious threat whenever he lines up in a Ten Rater fleet - but let's just see about that!.
Victorian sailor Kirwan Robb (AUS 94, Albert Park MYC) will also be one to watch. Robb has a reputation for strong performances at national events and will be looking to challenge the front-runners with his Trance+ design. While Robb has had limited sailing in recent years he still has the capability to claim this title.
Queensland’s Greg Torpy (AUS 25, Gladstone RCYC) brings a wealth of experience to the fleet and recently finished 2nd in the Marblehead Class Australian Championship on the same waters. Torpy has long been a competitive force in multiple radio sailing classes and will relish the opportunity to race on home waters.
Other sailors such as Rob Nowak (Albert Park MYC) and Brett Osborn (Adelaide RCYRC) are both capable of challenging for podium positions, while Canberra’s Mark Newman, a regular Masters competitor at national championships, will also be looking to feature strongly.
Queensland sailors are well represented in the fleet, with local competitors including Bruce Deane, Jimmy Mee, David Lambourne, Graham Cowling and Adrian Banwell aiming to capitalise on their familiarity with the Emerald Lakes venue and will no doubt have a few good races but may lack the ability to compete at the top end. One would suggest Deano is just making up the numbers!
The fleet is dominated by the Trance design boats, although a number of other designs including the Sanga, Rhino, Diamond, Phoenix and B6 will also be competing, highlighting the ongoing development and diversity within the Ten Rater class.
Beyond the racing itself, the championship continues the strong tradition of competitive radio sailing in Australia. Events such as this not only showcase the remarkable sailing talent from across the country but also strengthen the camaraderie and community spirit that defines the sport.
With a strong fleet, a world-class venue and the support of the Paradise Radio Yacht Club, the 2026 International Ten Rater Australian Championship promises three days of exciting and closely contested racing on the Gold Coast.
Racing is scheduled to commence on Thursday 5 March, with sailors battling for national honours through to the final races on Saturday 7 March.
For results visit: https://aryanationals.com