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After more than three decades on the water, Durban’s Thomas Funke (44) has earned South Africa’s Sailor of the Year.
The prestigious Owen Aisher Trophy by SA Sailing recognises the South African yachtsman or yachtswoman considered to have made the greatest contribution to yachting in the country during the year.
And if anyone knows their way around a yacht, it's Funke.
The passionate sailor is Rear Commodore of Youth at Point Yacht Club, where he plays a key role in encouraging young sailors, while also competing across a variety of classes on home waters and internationally.
“I am so incredibly honoured to have received this award. A big thank you to my family for allowing me the time to pursue my passion. And to my brother for sharing my drive to continue competing against the world’s best,” he says.
Previous award-winners include Vuyisile Jaca and Kirsten Neuschäfer who, rather appropriately, attended the same high school as Funke!
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From baby on board to Sailor of the Year
Funke jokes that he was practically born sailing: “My Dad took me out as a baby. I very quickly got onto Dabbies in 1990 and haven’t looked back!”
His particular passion is racing 505s, a high-speed two-person dinghy class. That enthusiasm has taken him from Durban’s waters to some of the biggest sailing events around the world – including his 10th 505 World Championship, recently held at Hayling Island in the UK.
Sailing alongside his younger brother Peter, Funke finished 32nd overall in a fiercely competitive fleet of 90 boats.
“Worlds was great. Massively competitive and one of the toughest events I have sailed. Really fulfilling to be part of it,” he says.
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Durban’s sailing scene gets a shout-out
While Funke has competed around the world, he remains a passionate advocate for sailing on Durban’s doorstep, noting: “Some of my best sailing has been offshore of Durban; it really is a hidden gem in the sailing world.”
His connection to the local sailing community also extends to his family. Beyond competing with his brother, Funke and his youngest son Kai competed in the Marriott Mirror World Championships off Durban in 2025, finishing third overall, after taking first place in the African Championships in the build-up to the event.
Funke was also part of the team that competed in the J22 Worlds when Durban hosted the event in 2022. Now he hopes Durban could once again welcome a major international sailing championship.
“We have some of the best sailing conditions in the world,” says Funke. “Also happy to share that we have submitted a bid to host the 505 worlds in Durban, the year to be confirmed but either 2029 or 2031. Exciting times ahead!”
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Get ready for a busy summer on the water
Funke won't have much time to sit back and admire his trophy. His next project is the return of the ‘little red sails’ - the Mirror KZN Regionals - taking place at the harbour on 17 and 18 October.
Point Yacht Club is also gearing up for a major summer season as it prepares to celebrate its 135th birthday. The club's upcoming calendar includes the 56th Vasco da Gama Ocean Race, the 50th MSC Week, and the ILCA Nationals.
With one of Durban's most passionate sailors now officially holding the title of South African Sailor of the Year, it looks like the city’s sailing scene has plenty to look forward to.
What you need to know
- Next event: Mirror KZN Regionals
- When: 17–18 October 2026
- Where: Durban Harbour
- Coming up: Point Yacht Club’s 135th birthday celebrations, 56th Vasco da Gama Ocean Race, 50th MSC Week and ILCA Nationals
- More information: pyc.co.za.
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