The Australian SailGP team has returned to its home waters, conducting a vital on-water practice session in Sydney Harbour as preparations intensify for the upcoming KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix. The session marks a key moment for the team, led by driver and CEO Tom Slingsby, as they fine-tune their operations ahead of the high-stakes event.
On-Water Preparations and Team Dynamics
With the iconic harbour as their backdrop, the Australian crew focused on manoeuvres and boat handling aboard their F50 catamaran, Australia. The practice is critical for integrating team members and testing systems under real conditions. The KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix is scheduled for February 24 and 25, promising two days of intense racing in one of the world's most spectacular sailing venues.
Tom Slingsby emphasised the importance of these sessions, noting the team's determination to improve upon past performances. The Australian squad currently sits in a competitive position on the overall championship ladder, and a strong showing on home turf is a top priority for the sporting icon.
Cross-Code Challenge Sees Rugby Star Triumph
In a unique twist highlighting the athletic demands of SailGP, the team recently staged a gruelling cross-code fitness challenge. The event pitted the sailing athletes against Western Force winger Harry Potter in a test of strength and endurance.
The challenge, dubbed "the grind," involved a punishing combination of exercises. Harry Potter emerged victorious, showcasing the formidable fitness levels of professional rugby players. SailGP grinder Kinley Fowler put up a strong fight, finishing a close second, while fellow grinder Sam Newton secured third place.
This friendly but fierce competition underscores the incredible physicality required to crew the high-speed F50 catamarans, where grinders must generate hydraulic power to control the foils and sails.
Looking Ahead to the Sydney Showdown
The Sydney event represents a major highlight on the global SailGP calendar. All eyes will be on Slingsby and his team as they battle it out against international rivals including New Zealand, Great Britain, and the United States. The home crowd advantage and local knowledge of the harbour conditions could prove decisive.
The team's recent on-water work, combined with the competitive spirit displayed in their cross-code challenge, signals a squad that is sharply focused and ready to perform. Fans can expect a spectacular display of speed and skill as the fleet of high-tech catamarans races on the confined waters of the harbour.
With the event now just days away, the Australian team's final preparations are in full swing. The combination of technical sailing practice and peak athletic conditioning will be put to the ultimate test when the starting gun fires for the KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix.
