Issue date
With five weeks until race day, matching up lonely boats sitting in marine berths, with enthusiastic crew members, is the big focus of the PIC Insurance Brokers Coastal Classic.
“There is still time to get your boat ready for the race, and we know there are crew members out there looking for boats,” says race director Matt Flynn of the 119 nautical mile race between Devonport Wharf in Auckland, and Russell Wharf in the Bay of Islands, which kicks off the summer sailing season for at least 150 entrants - and more than 1,000 crew members - each year.
Flynn says that people are busy and often put the race out of their minds until it’s too late - but that it’s well worth the effort to get onto the start line, and that crew will often help with the boat preparation that is required.
He says that whether you race hard or treat it like a fun weekend away, there are options for everyone.
The race includes sixteen divisions, including race divisions for monohulls and multihulls, single handed and two handed divisions, and a cruising division, for which the entry requirements are a little more relaxed.
“All our cruising entrants need is the required safety certification from Yachting New Zealand,” says Matt Flynn. “Category 3 inspections cost $121 and last for two years, and are a good benchmark that your boat is ready for coastal sailing.”
The race takes between half a day and a day and a half, depending on the boat, and is marked by post race celebrations and a prize giving in Russell township.
“It really is a great way to start the season and to get out on your boat, and to meet new people,” says sponsor Daniel Garner of PIC Insurance Brokers. “Our own team really enjoy being involved.”
To advertise yourself as a crew member, or to find crew for your boat, please email details to media@coastalclassic.co.nz and they will be placed on the boat’s Facebook page and website.
The race starts on Friday 21 October - visit www.coastalclassic.co.nz for information
