Vāyu

Vāyu, the Whitcraft family sailing team, come from Thailand where they had campaigned a TP52 successfully for some years before joining the 52 SUPER SERIES in 2021 fulfilling their ambition to come to Europe and challenge themselves at the highest level they can.

Theirs is a unique program on the circuit with as many as six or seven family members on board at any one time. Co-owners are brothers Tom and Kevin Whitcraft and theirs remains a pro-am family team. Shane Elliot is navigator this year. Mainsheet trimmer Pom Greem runs the project.

Working as part the four boat Quantum program, sharing data and coaching, has helped fast track their learning. They are now at a strong, competitive level even challenging for the regatta win in Scarlino in 2023 where they finished third. And then in Newport RI in the USA they put together a fantastic XS 52 SUPER SERIES Newport RI Trophy regatta where they scored a dream first ever regatta win in 2024. In Puerto Portals in 2025 they hosted the Queen of Thailand who sailed on board during the penultimate regatta of the season.

The family make a point of supporting young talent at home – Kevin is very active in the Optimist class – and they integrate young Thai sailors into their Vāyu TP52 crew to ensure they have grand prix big boat opportunities early in their careers. In 2026 again they will sail with Mallorcan ace Manu Weiler as tactician.

Vayu went back to Thailand through the 25-26 winter to race at home at the King’s Cup meaning their arrival back in Europe for the start of the season left them slightly tight for time. Nonetheless Vayu started their season well, leading after the first day in Puerto Portals.

They have a new keel for 2026 but are waiting for a time window to fit it and test before racing.