Peter Lester

Peter Lester (14 August 1954 – 8 August 2025) was a New Zealand sailor, coach and broadcaster. A world champion and two-time New Zealand Yachtsman of the Year, he was a veteran of multiple America's Cup campaigns and later became one of the most recognised voices in international sailing commentary.

Sailing career Early career and world championship Born in Christchurch on 14 August 1954, Lester learned to sail on Lyttelton Harbour.

Broadcasting career Lester's broadcasting career began in 1992. After the Spanish team he was coaching was eliminated from the Louis Vuitton Cup, he was asked to join the commentary team as an expert analyst. He was an immediate success with viewers due to his clear, insightful analysis and accessible delivery style. His final role was as an on-water commentator for the world feed of the 2024 America's Cup.