Amsterdam, Netherlands — Competitive sailing’s visual spectacle gets its annual close-up with the Yacht Racing Image Award 2024, where the convergence of skill, art, and nautical passion promises another profound showcase. The event draws top marine photographers from around the globe, spotlighting their best work, and this year’s proceedings include a jury comprised of prominent figures from the world of sailing and media.
The Yacht Racing Forum, to be held on November 21 in Amsterdam, sets the stage for the award ceremony, where photographs that capture the essence of yacht racing will compete for top honors. Among these, the Yacht Racing Image Award represents the pinnacle of achievement, specially chosen by an international jury.
This year’s panel highlights a mix of expertise and accolades, including Soco Nunez de Cela from Spain, Chair at The Magenta Project, UK sailing commentator Andy Rice, Patricia Becker from Netherlands, Exhibition Manager at METSTRADE, Spanish sailing journalist Carlos Pich, and Shirley Robertson from the UK, a journalist who is also a two-time Olympic champion.
The competition, now in its fifteenth iteration, has opened its doors to entries, with professional photographers invited to submit images captured between October 14, 2023, and October 13, 2024. As part of the judging process, the top 20 images will be displayed at the METSTRADE show, running from November 19-21, offering attendees a glimpse into the artistry behind yacht racing photography.
Moreover, the selection will not only feature the jury’s picks but also cater to public sentiment. On October 17, the 80 best images, as determined by the jury, will be uploaded to the event’s official website. Online voting will then be open until November 12, giving enthusiasts a chance to influence the outcome by selecting their favorite snapshot for the Public Prize.
Additionally, the Delegates Award brings another layer of engagement, with attendees of the Yacht Racing Forum and METSTRADE casting their votes to celebrate one outstanding image.
Photographers keen on participating have a deadline until midnight, October 13, to submit their entries through the event’s website. This creates a unique opportunity for professionals to not only showcase their talents but also engage with the community and gain recognition among peers and the public alike.
The convergence of creativity, sport, and community embodied by the Yacht Racing Image Award not only celebrates the art of photography but also the thrilling and ever-evolving world of yacht racing. As November approaches, anticipation builds not just for the revelation of this year’s top photograph, but also for the stories behind each shot and the global community that brings them to the forefront of the sailing world.