Auckland-born Matt Kelway has carved out an impressive international sailing career, grounded in grit, precision, and relentless drive. As a top-tier professional bowman, Matt Kelway has spent years mastering the front of the boat under pressure.
Starting young at Bucklands Beach Yacht Club, he progressed through Optimists and Starlings before becoming bowman for renowned sailor Andrew Wills – a partnership that launched his trajectory in both professional sailing and his North Sails career.
Kelway quickly made a name for himself on the international circuit, earning respect as one of the world’s top bowmen. He spent three years aboard the RC44 Katusha, sailing with legends like Russell Coutts, Brad Butterworth, and Francesco Bruni. Later, he was bowman on Gavin Brady’s Beau Geste campaign, contributing to ORC World Championship wins in 2018 and 2022.
