Hugh Treharne, tactician behind historic America’s Cup victory, dies aged 84
Hugh Treharne OAM, the tactical mastermind behind Australia’s legendary 1983 America’s Cup win, has died in Sydney aged 84.
NSW
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Hugh Treharne, OAM, has been remembered as a gentleman and a brilliant sailor, a great friend, a humble champion of world sailing and a key player in Australia II’s famous America’s Cup win back in 1983 in his role as tactician.
Treharne died peacefully in a Sydney hospital, surrounded by his loving family. He was 84.
He has been remembered as a devoted family man and an inspirational figure across generations of Australian sailors.
Australia II skipper and close friend John Bertrand spoke to Treharne just a week ago and said he was eager to talk about the latest technologies being used in sailing and the SailGP series where an Australian team led by Tom Slingsby competes.
Bertrand also spoke of the pivotal role Treharne played in Australia II’s stunning comeback to win the 1983 America’s Cup which is still considered nearly 50 years on, Australia’s greatest sporting moment.
“He was a key part of our America’s Cup, especially when we faced challenges, when our backs were against the wall,’’ Bertrand said.
“He just never gave up, he was always looking for the next opportunity, he was an inspiration in terms of his role in our team.
“It’s a sad day.
“Hughie was the most passionate, intuitive person I have ever come across.
“His love of sailing and people, his love of family was exceptional and he was totally trustworthy and loyal.
“He has left an indelible mark on our sport and our country.
“He will be missed by so many people.”
The Manly Boatshed also paid tribute to one of the great champions of the sport.
“It was with deep sadness that we said goodbye to our beloved husband, father and grandfather.
“Hugh was a committed father of strength, kindness and unconditional love, and an inspirational role model to generations of sailors around the nation.”
Treharne’s name is etched in sporting folklore for his role as tactician aboard Australia II, which famously overturned a 3–1 series deficit and came from 57 seconds behind on the final leg to defeat Dennis Conner’s Liberty and end the United States’ 132-year grip on the America’s Cup.
Treharne, who grew up sailing on Sydney Harbour from a young age, played a crucial role in masterminding the Australia II comeback with navigator Grant Simmer — a moment still regarded as one of the nation’s greatest sporting triumphs.
His remarkable sailing career spanned state, national and world titles in skiffs and keelboats, including World Championships in the Half Ton and One Ton classes.
He also represented Australia in six Admiral’s Cups, and competed in 28 Sydney to Hobart yacht races.
Beyond competition, Treharne was a respected sailmaker, crafting the famous spinnaker that helped Australia II storm home in the final downwind leg of the America’s Cup.
In 2023, Treharne was inducted into the Boating Industry Association Hall of Fame.
His passing will be deeply felt not only by his family and friends, but by the sailing community across Australia and abroad.
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