As most of you know that are getting this email, making it to the startline of the PIC Insurance Brokers Coastal Classic can be more challenging than making it to the finish. The time and money that goes into preparing a boat that will safely deliver your crew up the coast can be immense. In the last few weeks we've gotten to know some boat owners who are doing it for the first time. It's great to see new blood in the fleet and we welcome and encourage them in their fantastic endeavour.
If you are planning to race, please make it official by getting your entry in now. If you need a hand or have questions, just reply to this email. We'll forward details about the Audi A1 in the next day or two.
Scintilla
Kai Skowronnek is busy getting this Reactor 25 ready for race day, most likely in the two-handed division. Kai is looking forward to doing the race, but knows the challenges that lie ahead. Scintilla was launched around the same time Kai was born and Kai is busy organising Cat 3 and PHRF right now. Good luck Kai!
Flying Boat
Recently arrived from Wellington, Flying Boat is a Young 11 that has been raced hard and well maintained. It's owner Chris Beaumont's first Coastal as an owner, but he has done eight or nine on OPB (Other People's Boats). Chris won his entry to the race when he was the first yacht home in a BBYC Major Rum Race.
Strider
A 28 foot double diagonal kauri sailing yacht that will ultimately carry Ashley Rogers (pictured) to the Solo Tasman in 2018 - and the Coastal is the first step. Ash is sailing with another female, Cathy, in the two handed division on this reliable seaworthy boat and we will all be cheering her on.
Wild Oats
Not a new entrant to the fleet, or a new skipper, but it is a first time combination, and welcoming Sundreamer Phil Hart back into the world of lead swingers. Phil owns the boat with his partner Helen Hart and as former owner of the big cat Sundreamer, it will probably be the longest Coastal he has done for a while. Wild Oats is a Ross 930 class boat, currently in the paint shed having a makeover. Good luck Phil and crew.
Times & Places
7pm Thurs 24 Oct
Briefing @ RNZYS
(Registration from 5pm) 7-9am Fri 25 Oct
Breakfast @ RNZYS 10am Fri 25 Oct
Race start @ Devonport Wharf 7pm Sat 26 Oct
Prizegiving & Afterparty
Next Clinic
The second PIC Insurance Brokers Coastal Classic Clinic will be held at 7pm on Monday 21 October at the RNZYS and will cover off strategies, tactics and more. More info soon.
Staying in Russell
Romantic Russell's website is a great starting point for accommodation and trip planning in New Zealand's most charming small town.
