On Saturday, 13th September, Hebe Haven Yacht Club (HHYC) kicked of another thrilling year of participation in Bart’s Bash, the world’s largest sailing regatta. With over 56 countries competing for their chosen charities, Hong Kong stepped up its game, brining together a vibrant fleet in the stunning waters of Sai Kung.
Despite the scorching heat, a gentle southerly seas breeze made for perfect racing conditions, resulting in one of HHYC’s best-organized Barts Bash events yet. A record 82 dinghies-including double-handed crews, staff, coaches, and volunteers—all took to the water, with over 150 participants sailing, coaching & supporting for a great cause.
A First: Island Dinghy Race &Passage Challenge
At the morning briefing, organizers unveiled an exciting twist: for the first time, the event would feature an Island Dinghy Race around Shelter Island, followed by a Passage Race back to the Club. Sailors of all ages learned about the event’s global significance, especially the younger participants, who gained insight into why they were racing.
Race 1 began at 1300, with all 82 dinghies starting together in a spectacular display. The 3.2 NM clockwise course around Shelter Island tested tactics in light winds, with boats finishing between 30-60 minutes. Against a backdrop of vibrant sails and blue skies, ti was a breathtaking way ot honor Andrew Simpson, and our own Bart’s Bash Regatta.
Race 2—a downwind passage race back to the Club, also without intention a distance of 3.2M- proved more challenging. From 2pm-3pm, boats streamed across the finish line to cheers from parents and spectators lining the balcony and terrace. The scene was a paparazzi’s dream, with cameras capturing every triumphant moment.
A Global Connection & Celebrations
Back at the Garden Bar, sailors eagerly awaited results while enjoying a live Zoom call with Richard Percy, CEO and founder of the Andrew Simpson Foundation and Bart’s Bash. The interaction highlighted the global spirit of the event. As HYC wrapped up its day just as the Weymouth National Sailing Academy prepared for their own stormy race day forecasted in the Solent, UK—a stark contrast to Hong Kong’s idyllic conditions.
Honoring Achievements & Raising Funds
At the prize-giving, awards were presented amid cheers, including:
Your Bart’s Bash CHAMPION 2025 -Nathan Li, from the Optimist Main Fleet
Hebe Dragons Youth Fleet Captains —Wel done ot Avelino Shin (Lino) (ILCA), Ned Tyson (29ER) & Jamie Rouget (Optimist)
Hebe Dragons Sailor of the Year —Nathan Li
HYC Female Sailor of the Year —Chantal Henrikson
The event raised an impressive HK$35,000-and the support continues to grow, with more contributions still coming in for Sailability Hong Kong, supporting inclusive sailing.
Bigger & Better Next Year!
With plans to expand the event in 2025-including more watersports-HHYC invites everyone to join what’s becoming one of the Club’s standout days of the sailing calendar. A huge thank you to all sailors, volunteers, and supporters for making this Bart’s Bash 2025 unforgettable.
