Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron hosted a special evening celebrating Laura Harding’s Women’s America’s Cup campaign while raising funds to support her Olympic Pathway to the 2028 Summer Olympics. Laura helms the 49erFX alongside crew Annie Wilmot, and together they have their sights firmly set on the LA 2028 Olympic Games.
Hosted by Commodore Georgina Plumridge, the event welcomed 110 guests, including Laura’s parents Lucy and Jonathan, extended family and grandparents. Distinguished guests included AS Board Member Sian Harding, AS CEO Malcolm Page OAM, and AS Victorian General Manager Rod Austin, highlighting the strong support behind Laura’s campaign.
During the evening, Laura took part in a panel interview with Club Captain Jenni Maclean, Andy Mac and Dean Taylor. The conversation reflected on her journey from sailing Minnows in the shallow waters off Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron to competing on the world stage. Laura spoke openly about the dedication required to pursue elite sailing, the sacrifices involved, and the challenge of balancing university, friendships and family life while chasing an Olympic dream.
She generously shared both the highs and the lows of her journey—the triumphs, setbacks and even the tears along the way—offering guests a genuine insight into what it takes to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Before the night concluded Georgina presented Laura with a frame recognising Laura’s role of co-helm for Team Australia in the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup in late 2024. The frame will proudly be hung on display in the clubs Racing Lounge for all to see.
The evening was a tremendous success, raising valuable support for Laura’s Olympic campaign and demonstrating the strength of the BYS community behind one of its own.
A sincere thank you to everyone who attended and to those who have contributed to Laura’s campaign so far. Special thanks go to Laura for making time in her incredibly busy schedule to return home and share such an inspiring evening with the BYS community.
Laura, we wish you every success on your journey to Los Angeles in 2028. The entire BYS community stands proudly behind you every step of the way.
Photo credit: Sara Lloyd
