Issue date
This year sees the running of the 25th Aviemore Classic. (Flyer here)
From its beginnings as part of the 25th celebrations of the Waitaki Lakes Committee, the event has grown to become a premier event on the trailer sailing calendar and the largest trailer yacht freshwater event in New Zealand.
The first race in 1989 saw an entry level at 55 yachts. It reached a peak in 1997 with 97 entries and continues to attract an entry level of 70 – 90 boats from all over the South Island and a few over the years from the North Island. A total of some 1833 yachts have entered in the 24 years of the Classic, that’s an average of 74 a year, some record. It is organised and run by a committee formed out of the cruising trailer yacht section and other club volunteers of the Timaru Yacht and Power Boat Club.
In 1993 class divisions were contested for the first time, and in 1999 the first New Zealand Trailer Yacht Association Championships were introduced and in 2001 the first of many South Island and National Championships were held on the Saturdays of the weekend, culminating with their final race as part of the Classic, which all boats needed to enter as part of the championship.
Being held on Lake Aviemore, touted as the best sailing lake in New Zealand because of its location in the Waitaki Valley, it has a reputation of consistent breezes with its own “Doctor” most afternoons, although there have been years where the wind has dropped out all day or blown to excess. In 1998 the event was cancelled because of forecast 120km/h northwest winds which did eventuate and could have caused some sailing havoc. The rescue and patrol boats were not needed on the water for the Classic that year.
There has been many an event talked about over the years, from the day the wind dropped out at the Waitangi mark (2) and some 30 – 40 boats tried to round it at the same time in a very slow thick queue; the year it was cancelled, and when Hot C Air broached and had to be shored and pumped out. There’s been many a broken mast, ripped sails and some very exciting and enjoyable sailing for the serious competitor and the family cruiser alike. In 1992 there was a fishing competition held in conjunction with the race, but as for results – none could be found, so we guess the best just got away. It’s the social side and the camaraderie that sets this event apart. We would love to see you there.
The course now consists of an approximate 22kms, circumnavigating Lake Aviemore one and two third times with two trips to the dam, starting from the top of the lake adjacent to Parsons Rock and finishing near the same location with an upwind direction organised given the conditions on the day. The event is based at the Otematata Boat Harbour and camp area where the facilities and infrastructure of the Otematata village provide extra support.
In 2013 the class championships will be run, and a Saturday fun race will feature in the program for the not so serious sailors. The usual social activities are expected to be well supported given their reputation. The prize giving will also see the official launch of a book celebrating and recording past events.
Let’s remember those who have sailed before us, blow out the candles and cut the cake, charge our glasses and toast the biggest and the best “Aviemore Classic” ever.
May the sun keep shining, the winds are fair and your days under sail are memorable. From those of us who organise and run, those of us who enjoy the comradeship and fun and most of all the memories – we would love to have you come join us.
Timaru Yacht and Power Boat Club
Trailer Yacht Cruising Section
