17/02/2026
The Spirit of 2016: Why We Race for Brisbane 2032
As we stand just 48 hours away from the Burnsco 2026 SKUD 18 International Match Race Challenge, we’re looking back at the last time the Silver Fern flew at a Paralympic Games.
In 2016, our Kiwi sailors took to the waters of Rio with one goal: to prove that New Zealand is a powerhouse of inclusive sport. While the Sonar team battled at the front of the pack, the SKUD 18 class was redefining what "high-performance" looks like.
“It’s about showing people that despite your disability, you can still get out there and compete at a world-class level. Sailing gives you that freedom—the boat doesn’t know you have a disability.” — Andrew May, Rio 2016 Paralympian
The Heartbreak of Rio:
Rio 2016 was supposed to be a stepping stone, but it became a finish line when sailing was unexpectedly removed from the Paralympic program. Our sailors left the water that year with "steely determination" but a heavy heart.
“We’re not just sailors; we’re athletes. To have our sport taken away felt like losing a part of our identity. We have to get it back.” — Chris Sharp, Rio 2016 Paralympian
Bringing the Flame to Auckland ⛵
This weekend, we aren't just hosting a regatta. We are carrying the legacy of the 12 2016 Paralympic crew. By racing the SKUD 18—the very boat that captivated Rio—we are showing the world that the skill, the speed, and the strategy never left.
We are racing to advocate for the reinstatement of sailing at Brisbane 2032. Every tack, every gybe, and every spectator on the shore is a vote for the return of our sport to the world stage.
Be part of the movement:
📍 Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron
🗓️ Feb 20–22 | First race 10am
🚀 Plus: VR Sailing & Foiling Displays!