In a thrilling triumph on the high seas, the RCYC Sailing Academy’s Alexforbes Angel Wings crew has claimed first place on handicap in the 2025 Cape2Rio Yacht Race, one of the world’s most gruelling offshore sailing challenges.
The iconic race spans some 3,300 nautical miles from Cape Town to Rio de Janeiro, demanding extraordinary endurance, skill and mental toughness as crews battle the full force of the Atlantic Ocean.
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The Angel Wings victory was hard-earned. In the early hours of 10 January, while holding a commanding lead of about 25 hours, the yacht suffered a dramatic boom failure during a gybe – a setback that could easily have ended their race. Refusing to give up, the young crew improvised, re-hoisting the mainsail without a boom and pushing on in a bold display of courage and seamanship.
After 19 intense days at sea, facing relentless swells, constant fatigue and moments of real uncertainty, the youth-led team crossed the finish line off Rio de Janeiro to secure the prestigious win, capturing attention and admiration far beyond sailing circles.
The six-member crew, drawn from marginalised communities through the Royal Cape Yacht Club Sailing Academy, showcased exceptional teamwork and resilience. Skipper Sibusiso “Sibu” Sizatu, alongside Yonela Temela, Philasande Gwala, Yobanathi Klaas, Sesona Ntsaluba and Renaldo Mohale, proved that preparation, trust and belief can overcome even the toughest challenges. Four of the six sailors are women, marking an important step in promoting gender diversity in the sport.
Backed by headline sponsor Alexforbes, the campaign also stands as a milestone for inclusivity in offshore sailing.
The achievement has been widely hailed as more than a race win – it is a powerful symbol of opportunity, national pride and the potential of South Africa’s youth.
Deputy Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Peace Mabe, praised the crew’s composure and determination, saying the victory showed how young sailors, given the right support, can rise to extraordinary occasions.
The Angel Wings triumph builds on the RCYC Sailing Academy’s growing legacy, following a podium finish by the Alexforbes ArchAngel team in the 2023 Cape2Rio race, and firmly cements South Africa’s place on the global offshore sailing stage.
