The 2025 Tuzi Tekwini Ocean Race took off in true East Coast fashion on June 14, sending a fleet of 16 yachts south from Richards Bay to Durban over roughly 90 nautical miles of warm water, steady breeze, and tactical offshore sailing. Now in its second year since its revival, the race has already cemented itself as a must-do for South Africa’s coastal sailors.

Among the standout performances, Morgan Evans, Ullman Sails Cape Town salesman, and his team aboard Ullman Sails Pink Things were impossible to miss. Representing King Shaka Yacht Club and powered by Ullman Sails, the crew not only finished 3rd over the line, but also won the ORC Division B class and claimed the title of ORC Regional Champions—a huge haul for a team racing a Pacer 27.

There were four Pacer 27s in the fleet, and Pink Things was the first among them to cross the finish line, well ahead of the rest of the pack. It was a composed and confident performance from start to finish, made all the more impressive by the variable conditions along the Zululand coast. Finished in 10 hours, 8 minutes and 38 seconds.

Also flying the flag for Ullman was Dealtry Pickford on the Class 40 MOST. True to form, Pickford pushed hard in the big boat fleet from early on, carving through the water with pace and purpose. Known for his ambition and discipline, Pickford is already lined up to compete in the Global Solo Challenge, and this performance was yet another reminder of what he’s capable of when the breeze is up and the course is long. Pickford finished in 4th overall and 4th in Division A. In a time of 10 hours, 9 minutes and 47 seconds. 

photos Rachael England

What makes this race special isn’t just the length or the route, it’s the accessibility, the variety of boats, and the fact that it brings together everyone from full offshore campaigners to grassroots racers looking to stretch their legs. This year, that mix was on full display, and the results spoke for themselves.

With strong showings from boats like Pink Things and MOST, and growing interest from across the country, the Tuzi Tekwini Ocean Race is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the South African offshore calendar.