Richard and Megan Grant, a father-daughter duo from Hobart, are making history as the first-ever father-daughter team to compete in the Melbourne to Osaka Race.
The Grant’s will be competing in the 2025 event aboard Magellan, a Knoop 39 yacht they acquired in 2013. Designed and built locally in Tasmania, Magellan has strong ties to the region, with its original owner Dick Knoop (designed by his brother Walter Knoop), ensuring the boat was sold to someone capable of handling its performance. The yacht’s deep cockpit and responsive tiller provide safety and comfort, while its slippery underwater design makes it a fast and competitive boat.
Both experienced sailors, Richard and Megan have completed several ocean races together. Their recent triumph in the 52nd Melbourne to Hobart Yacht Race showcased their preparation and teamwork. Their hard work paid off with a victory in the double-handed division, bolstering their confidence as they set their sights on the upcoming Osaka race.
Megan, who learned to sail from her father, Richard, couldn’t resist the opportunity to race alongside him. However, with only a few weeks between her wedding and the start of the race, Megan is balancing wedding preparations with race preparations, as well as planning a honeymoon in Japan and organising the cruise back to Australia with Richard, as well as her mum and her new husband.
Richard has provided inspiration for not only his daughter Megan to embrace sailing but also to fellow competitor Lillian Stewart on White Spirit. “It’s been somewhat sad having to leave our dedicated crew off the lists whilst we campaign double handed” Richard continued, “we’re competitive and there’s some friendly rivalry between us and some of the other competitors, but we are also looking forward to getting to the end and being able to celebrate with those we know once again.”