Best wishes for 2011

Lots to look forward to on the water this year. Reading a few sailing mags over the hols ( all I can manage) shows mixed views on the new AC format but we are all in for a sneak preview with the first AC cats expected on the water here very shortly. Looks like a catamaran class is also going to be reintroduced to the Olympics. Also the new OD 70 ft trimaran programme has now 4 boats ordered by some very impressive multi programmes so there are going to be lots of big cats and tris to look at this year round the world. Meantime plenty of local activity and events to get involved in so look forward to seeing everyone out there.

*The pier party after the last Wednesday race of 2010 was great event, and thanks to those that assisted with the barbeque. We had a huge turn out and it was a really upbeat end to the year for the club. It finished quite late! The race was in quite difficult shifty conditions but a good handicap win to Borderline, with Voom and Taeping 2nd and 3rd, and a line win to Team Vodaphonesailing, with Triple 8 and Taeping 2nd and 3rd. Next race this Wednesday January 12.

* Bay Of island race week starts next Wednesday 19th January. A few boats have still to enter so get in your entry forms asap. Its a great place to race and the daily format means some w/l and some bay racing – perfect. Remember there should be space available in Opua still so if you are not sure where to moor- contact the marina.

* Parua Bay Race If you would like to race up on Saturday as part of the trip up then we have the Clubs Saturday race to Parua Bay, inside the Whangarei Harbour. The race is a relaxed club style event, using the low labour start system. See the attached instructions. Please let me know asap if you are intending to enter. At Parua Bay, watch the depths on your way in, it is shallow in parts, but the anchorage in Parua Bay is excellent, and the tavern a great place to convene. For those returning to Auckland there could be an informal race home.

* Round North Island. Feb 19th. We are delighted to have Big Waverider sailing from Australia for this event, and they have great crew coming. If you are still thinking about doing it, let us know.

* Also coming up Anniversary Mahurangi Cruise and Anniversary Day regatta, Kawau night race and squadron weekend( also incorporating the RNZYS Cruise series) Feb 5/6 .

Matthew Flynn
Commodore