More than 100 female helms took to the water as North Sails Cowes Week celebrated Women’s Day earlier this week, with organisers highlighting the growing number of women competing across all levels of the sport.
A total of 102 women helms registered for Women’s Day, while more than a third of all competitors taking part in this year’s regatta are women – reflecting what organisers say is increasing participation and opportunity within sailing.
The celebrations also coincided with a significant announcement for British sailing, with former British Sailing Team kitefoiler Jemima Lines being confirmed as the latest signing for the GB1 British America’s Cup team.
Following racing, Jemima joined the North Sails Cowes Week Women’s Day presentation hosted by The Magenta Project – an award-winning charity that promotes equity and inclusion across sailing and the wider marine industry through mentoring, leadership development and professional programmes.
Women’s Day trophies, sponsored by Spinlock, were presented by James Hall. Dawn Bee, sailing Sonata Dick Dastardly, claimed 1st place, with Isabelle Waha aboard J/99 Further West finishing 2nd and Lijia Xu on Team Magenta taking 3rd.
The prestigious Women’s Day Trophy was presented to Hannah Mills OBE in recognition of her achievements both on and off the water.
As Co-Founder, Team Principal and Skipper/Helm of Athena Pathway, Hannah is leading Britain’s challenge in the Women’s and Youth America’s Cup while helping create opportunities for the next generation of female sailors.
The Women’s Day Trophy has been awarded annually since 2006 to recognise outstanding contributions, commitment and achievement by women in sailing.
This year has also seen Hannah celebrate victory with the Emirates GBR SailGP Team, while Athena Pathway sailors have been inspiring young people through the Youth Sailing Zone during this week’s regatta.
Organisers say this year’s Women’s Day demonstrates the continued momentum behind women’s sailing, from grassroots participation through to the sport’s highest-profile competitions, with growing numbers of female competitors and increasing representation in leadership roles across the sport.
