14th-15th March 2026
Start time 1100hrs
Altex 2026 – Endurance Yacht Racing
24 Hour Endurance Yacht Race
Notice of Race is posted below and entries are now open for Wellington Harbour’s iconic 24‑hour challenge. The Altex 24 Hour Endurance Yacht Race brings together cruising yachts, keelboats, and trailer yachts for a true test of seamanship, teamwork, and stamina.
All boats compete on handicap for the Gibson Sheat Cup, awarded to the yacht that sails the greatest distance.
Open to all keelboats (Category 5+) and trailer yachts over 20 ft, with a minimum crew of four and at least two on deck at all times.
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NEW FOR 2026 – 12 Hour Adventure Yacht Race
A shorter, high‑energy endurance option offering offshore‑style racing in a compact format. Perfect for crews wanting a serious challenge without the full 24‑hour commitment.
Features:
• Offshore‑style experience
• Inshore course for added safety
• Accessible yet demanding
• Minimum crew of two
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COURSE HIGHLIGHTS
Weather permitting, both events open with the popular Fitzroy Bay race, followed by the large and small harbour circuits.
Endurance racing at its best — choose your challenge.
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Hosted by Lowry Bay Yacht Club, racing starts at 11:00am on Saturday, with the start line located just off Point Howard Wharf.
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For any questions or further information, please contact the race director Brent Porter
24hr-race@lbyc.org.nz
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Follow all the action on the Predict wind tracker

Entry Fees 2026
Early-Bird Fee $60 (2nd -24th February)​
Standard Fee $75 (25th February - 6 March)
Late Fee $100 (7th - 12th March
​Prizes up for grabs for the 2026 24 hr Race are:
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Gibson Sheat Cup for overall winner of the 24-Hour Endurance Yacht Race
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Trophies for 1st & 2nd runner up of the 24-Hour Endurance Yacht Race
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Heineken Centennial Tankard for longest distance sailed
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Shield for longest distance (actual), if previous record is broken.
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Trophy for winner of a Class fleet if there are three or more boats of the same class competing in the race
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Trophies for 1st, 2nd & 3rd in the 12 Hour Adventure Yacht Race
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Attractive cash prizes
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Generous spot prizes
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Prizes for all competitors who complete the race
Entry Details
Details will be available in due course
Sailing Instructions​Courses & Marks
Polo order form
Entry List
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Got a boat and looking for crew, or keen to join a boat?
Check out the Crew/Boat wanted page
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A huge thanks to our 2026 sponsors!
As always, your support for our sponsors is much appreciated

Past 24hr Race content
2022





