Alexforbes Angel Wings, a youth team representing the Royal Cape Yacht Club (RCYC) Sailing Academy, claimed first place on handicap in the Cape to Rio Race. They have made history as the first such team to earn their place and take victory in the 3,300-nautical mile transatlantic crossing.
The crew, led by skipper Sibusiso Sizatu and first mate Renaldo Mohale, included Philasande Gwala, Sesona Ntsaluba and Yonela Temela, with reserve sailor Yobanathi Klaas supporting the team throughout training and preparation. The three women on board had never crossed the Atlantic Ocean before.
Resilience in action
On Saturday 10 January, the team faced a major setback when the boom broke during a sailing manoeuvre mid-Atlantic. Its failure placed the crew in a severely compromised position and would typically force retirement from a race of this nature. Faced with that reality, the team made the bold decision to continue, racing without a boom and spinnaker.
What followed was an extraordinary demonstration of seamanship, leadership and the never give-up spirit of this young, South African team. Despite the damage, they not only remained competitive but extended their 25-hour lead by several hours, arriving in Rio ahead of their expected finish time. The crew maintained speed, control and composure throughout to secure the historic victory against these odds.
Reflections
Sibu Sizatu, skipper of Alexforbes Angel Wings, reflected on the journey, “I’m incredibly proud of this crew. They were tested, and the way they stayed calm, solved problems and kept racing was impressive. The support from home and other crews along the way meant a huge amount, and I hope this shows young people in South Africa that with commitment and teamwork, even things that seem impossible can be achieved.”
Deputy Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture, Hon. Peace Mabe, congratulated the RCYC Sailing Academy and the Alexforbes Angel Wings team, “This victory is about far more than winning a race. It is about young sailors who were given the platform to apply their training in a real-world environment, make critical decisions in difficult conditions, and support one another when things did not go according to plan. The RCYC Sailing Academy, through this team, has shown the world what South African youth can achieve when talent is matched with structure, discipline and belief. The Alexforbes Angel Wings team are champions, and their story will encourage young South Africans to dream bigger, train harder and believe that they belong on the world stage.”
