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The scene is set for a great weekend of sailing at the 2019 Lawson’s Dry Hills New Year Regatta with entries from Auckland, Wellington, Nelson and Christchurch joining a healthy local contingent.
Raced in five divisions, the regatta was first contested in 1959 and has since grown to be the largest keelboat regatta south of Auckland.
Waikawa Boating Club manager Sue Van Velzen said an interesting aspect of the 2019 field is the fact “the fleet is split virtually down the middle between the short course and long course options”.
With late entries still arriving daily, she is confident of a fleet in excess of 50 boats contesting the 26 races on the programme.
Many of the top contenders will be on the water for the First National Marlborough invitation race on Friday evening. While this race does not count towards overall regatta standings, it is a valuable final shakedown for skippers and crew as they get into full race mode for the weekend.
With daily courses dependent on wind direction, the regatta is an engaging spectacle with Karaka Point an easily accessible land-ased vantage point for the on-the-water activities.
Contact the club on office@waikawaboatingclub.co.nz or (03) 573 6798 for more information.
