24th Ambassadors’ Cup 2025
24th Ambassadors’ Cup: A Celebration of Friendship, Sailing, and Global Unity at Changi Sailing Club
Singapore, [1st November 2025] — The 24th edition of the Ambassadors’ Cup proved to be a memorable and spirited celebration of sailing and camaraderie, held under perfect conditions at Changi Sailing Club. A steady 7–8 knots of easterly breeze guided the fleet safely to North Angler and back, ensuring an exhilarating day of competition and connection on the water.
This year’s regatta saw 42 boats take to the start line, representing 27 embassies — including 17 Ambassadors and 10 Non-Ambassadors. Despite a slightly smaller fleet, the event retained its hallmark vibrancy, as sailors enjoyed clear skies, brisk winds, and friendly rivalry across all divisions.
Ambassadors’ Division
The competition in the Ambassadors’ Division was exceptionally close, with less than ten minutes separating the top eight finishers. Leading the fleet for much of the race was H.E. Sebastian Breton Perez, President of this year’s Ambassadors’ Cup, sailing aboard Adona (J29).
However, flukey wind conditions on the final leg from Squance created an opportunity for Fortissimo 8, a recently refitted Dehler 38 helmed by Maarten De Kroonen and featuring H.E. Alisher Kayumov of Uzbekistan, to close the gap. Their consistent performance earned them the coveted title of 24th Ambassadors’ Cup Champion on corrected time.
Adona claimed Line Honours and a well-deserved second place overall, while last year’s winners, Jong Dee (J35), helmed by Mr. Paul Kendall with H.E. Juha Markkanen of Finland on board, secured third place. The Finnish team impressed spectators with their coordinated teamwork and matching team attire.
Non-Ambassadors and Keelboat Open Divisions
The next start featured 17 boats across the Non-Ambassadors (10) and Keelboat Open (7) Divisions. A lively contest unfolded between Skybird (Philippines) and Sapphire Star (Italy), with Jangan Main Main, a J24 helmed by Andre and crewed by Alex together with staff from the Embassy of Qatar, capitalizing on their duel to sneak ahead and claim the Non-Ambassadors Division title. Sapphire Star and Skybird completed the podium in second and third respectively.
In the Keelboat Open Division, another J24, Jellico, delivered a stellar performance to take top spot on corrected time. Although Wild Thing — a Reflex 28 — crossed the line seven minutes ahead, it was not enough to edge out Jellico in the two-hour race. Congratulations to Cedric and family for securing the 2025 Keelboat Open title. Rounding out the top three was Boreas (Club Platu), chartered by sponsors Thiam Construction and skippered by Shaun Toh with family and friends.
Trimaran and Beach Catamaran Divisions
The Trimaran fleet featured six Corsair entries. Defending champions Miss Visayan returned to uphold their title but were edged out by Dot Dot Dot, who sailed an excellent upwind leg to North Angler and maintained a slim lead to the finish — earning their first Ambassadors’ Cup victory. Miss Visayan finished a close second after an exciting photo finish, while Soluna (Corsair 750), skippered by Darryl with the support of veterans Alice and Campbell, claimed third place.
In the Beach Catamaran Division, it was a two-boat duel between Scott McCook on a Nacra 430 and Kellie and Matt on Twisted Creature (Viper F16). Scott demonstrated superb solo sailing skill to secure a comfortable win, while Kellie and Matt put in a strong showing on their return to racing at Changi.
Celebrations and Acknowledgements
Back on shore, the festivities continued with Après-Sail drinks and delicious finger food. Sailors enjoyed Panamanian Rum and ice-cold Tiger Beer, generously sponsored by the Ambassador of Panama and Asia Pacific Breweries.
Changi Sailing Club extends heartfelt thanks to all sponsors whose generous support made this event possible:
Thiam Construction | Hinrich Foundation | KC Chng | Simba & Friends | Odyssey Marine | Hempel | Turkish Airlines | Keith Morton Security | Four Seasons Cleaning | The Luxury Network and Diplomatic Council | Asia Pacific Breweries | Cpt Fatty Goodlander & Cpt Richard Howe (VIP Boats)
In her welcome address, Commodore Deborah Barker emphasized the importance of sponsorship in sustaining the event’s success. Despite the absence of a title sponsor this year, the regatta thrived thanks to the commitment of a diverse group of supporters, the leadership of Organizing Chairman Mr. Ad Smit, and the tireless efforts of Changi Sailing Club’s staff and volunteers.
The evening’s festivities also included a cultural performance hosted by H.E. Sebastian Breton Perez, who showcased the vibrant spirit of Panama through traditional coffee, rum, and dance. Dinner was catered by Georges, with live entertainment by the talented 10.Seconds Band, creating a lively and memorable conclusion to the 24th Ambassadors’ Cup.
Adding to the celebrations, Mr. Maarten De Kroon, winner of this year’s Cup, also won the lucky draw prize — a business class ticket courtesy of Turkish Airlines. Congratulations to Maarten on a truly winning day, both on and off the water!
Bringing the World Together
The 24th Ambassadors’ Cup once again exemplified the spirit of international friendship, sportsmanship, and unity through sailing. Changi Sailing Club extends its gratitude to all participants, partners, and embassies for their continued support — and looks forward to celebrating an even more spectacular 25th edition next year.
Results
24th AMBASSADORS’ CUP RESULTS_FINAL
- 25th Ambassadors’ Cup 31 October 2026 - 2nd November 2026
- CSC Twilight Series III 2026 – Race 2 - 25th October 2026
- CSC x NUS Seafarers Ketam Clean-Up 24 Oct 2026 - 25th October 2026
