Record-Breaking Yacht ‘Lucky’ Joins 2025 PIC Coastal Classic Fleet

The prestigious PIC Coastal Classic will feature the racing yacht Lucky, an 88-foot maxi that recently shattered the record in the 2025 Sydney to Auckland Ocean Race. Skippered by Bryan Ehrhart from Chicago and tactically guided by renowned New Zealand sailor Brad Butterworth, Lucky made a remarkable crossing of the Tasman Sea in just two days, 20 hours, 27 minutes, and seven seconds. This time not only surpasses the previous record set by Antipodes in 2023 but does so by a significant margin.

Organised by the New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club (NZMYC), the 2025 PIC Coastal Classic is scheduled for October 24, starting from Auckland and finishing in Russell, located in the Bay of Islands. The race covers a distance of 119 nautical miles and is celebrated as New Zealand’s great race north. The event typically attracts a diverse range of participants, from cruising multihulls to high-tech grand-prix campaigns.

With Lucky joining the fleet, the NZMYC anticipates a highly competitive edition. Commodore Adrian Percival expressed his excitement, stating, “This is a huge moment for the Coastal. Having a boat of Lucky’s calibre on the start line highlights how far this race has come.” He emphasized the yacht’s impressive track record across various oceans, saying, “She’s proven herself across the Atlantic, Caribbean, Pacific, and now the Tasman. Seeing her charge north alongside New Zealand’s best will be unforgettable.”

The performance pedigree of Lucky, combined with Ehrhart’s leadership and Butterworth’s tactical expertise, positions her as one of the most formidable offshore racing machines of her generation. As the fleet gathers off Devonport Wharf on October 24, more than 100 boats and hundreds of sailors are expected to participate, making it one of the most anticipated races in years.

Weather permitting, Lucky’s northward sprint will attract significant attention from sailing enthusiasts and spectators alike. The race embodies a spirit of competition and camaraderie, celebrating both the thrill of racing and the beauty of New Zealand’s coastal waters. As the countdown to the PIC Coastal Classic begins, the anticipation surrounding Lucky’s performance is palpable, promising an unforgettable experience for participants and fans.