A picture-perfect day at @Sandringham Yacht Club as the Navy Band filled the air with music, drawing a crowd to witness the traditional Shinto and Christian blessing of the fleet.
Each competitor now carries a Shinto-blessed amulet, a good luck token from the Tenmangu Shrine, which will provide protection for the upcoming race and safe arrival into Osaka for all who carry it onboard.
The rhythmic beat of Japanese drummers added to the atmosphere, leading guests upstairs for the final presentation of competitors and the distribution of sponsor gifts— Musto shirts, Bollé sunglasses, and the commemorative Ronstan ClearStart watch.
A special congratulations to Sailor Moon, winner of the On Track Meals competition, who took home a six-pack of ready-made meals for their sailing adventure.With race flags officially signed and the traditional “biggest loser” weigh-in complete, Zero, Learning to Fly, and Escapade have set sail for Blairgowrie, preparing for tomorrow’s 4 PM start.
If you are down at Portsea Pier, drop in to wave the crews fair winds or keep up to date with their progress via the race
trackerhttps://race.bluewatertracks.com/2025-melbourne-osaka-cup-double-handed-raceFair winds and safe travels to all!
Check out the library of photos from today via our Facebook page
Photo M2O Media
