Short Facts

Age: 36
Family: Married
Nationality: New Zealander

Biography

Stu Bannatyne began his sailing career at the Paremata Boating Club, starting in Optimists and graduating through P Class to Lasers.

After moving to Auckland in 1990 to complete his degree in Mechanical Engineering, he started racing in the local keelboat scene, particularly in MRXs in fleet and match racing.

After getting his degree, he travelled to England to develop his sailing career and joined New Zealand Endevaour for the first of his four Round World Races.

In the past 10 years he has made a living from professional sailing, competing in many different classes including one designs such as Mumm 36 and Farr 40's and offshore sailing and match racing.

Most recently, he has been active racing TP52s as a navigator or tactician, winning the 2007 Florida Grand Prix series with Samba Pa Ti.

Sailing Achievements

• Volvo Ocean Race, 1993-94, helmsman/trimmer, New Zealand Endeavour, 1st place overall
• Volvo Ocean Race, 1997-98, Watch leader, Silk cut, 5th place overall
• Volvo Ocean Race, 2001-02, Watch leader, illbruck, 1st place overall
• Volvo Ocean Race, 2005-06, Watch leader, Movistar, 6th place overall