First Double Handed Challenge in Hong Kong A Huge Success With 23 Yachts On The Water!

The inaugural Double Handed Challenge 2020, held in Hong Kong on 9 May 2020, proved to be a huge success. 23 yachts attended and raced in the IRC and HKPN class with teams of two, enjoying the soft start of racing in Hong Kong after the racing lockdown in early Spring. This style of racing is popular in many other countries and the event, which is the brainchild of yachting enthusiast, Philippe Grelon, is one of the first of its kind (and scale) in Hong Kong

The Double Handed race began early on Saturday morning with the boats, ranging in size from 23 to 51 feet, setting off from Steep Island and heading to North Ninepins, then south around Waglan Island and Chesterman Buoy, and finishing back off Clearwater Bay Marina. The distance covered was approximately 25 nautical miles.

“The idea for a double-handed challenge came as soon as I arrived in Hong Kong some 15 years ago,” says Grelon. “Rob Berkley and I have discussed it many times and he, with his knowledge and experience in local racing, will be handling the sailing instructions. Furthermore, we have the input of Gordon Liu, a younger sailor known for his active participation in local regattas.”

The event was a welcome relief after the restrictions imposed on outdoor activities due to the Covid-19 virus and a great way to get out on the water.

Congratulations to the top three teams in the IRC class – Whiskey Jack (1), Calamansi (2) and Blackjack (3) – and the top three in the HKPN class –Whiskey Jack (1), Victoria (2) and Intrigue (3).

Simpson Marine supported the race with our Service Tender serving as the Support Boat throughout the day and will keep supporting the event with boats racing in the next editions.

If you would like to find an easy-to-sail Beneteau yacht and take part in future challenges please let us know at beneteau@simpsonmarine.com