NZ Race News (Archives)

This was pretty much the last chance to competitively race before the start of the 2004 National Championships.  Now is the time for some fine tuning, adjustments, fitness training and for some of us - weight loss!  The day was flattish with a chop and plenty of wind.  The sun came out a couple of times - just enough to give my cold chip legs a bit of colour (blushing pink).  

21 boats was a good turnout.  After launching at the boat ramp we set up halfway between the surf club and the airstrip giving spectators a good view from the grassy banks several metres higher than the waterline.  

It took some time to get organized though.  Already an hour late starting, one of our famous buoy bashers converted “A” buoy to a sea urchin causing further delays.  The club has decided to stop using MAGNETIC buoys as some boats (generally the same ones) seem to have a strong attraction to said buoys.  A reminder to racers;- Rule 603.12 is a 50% points penalty, Rule 603.13 is disqualification. (Click here for details)   

On a brighter note; some exceptionally good driving saved several boats from going over with one or two others not so lucky and either losing crew or flipping. The three new Aquarius hulls had a great day Hydraulink Racing 1^st, Waikato Sandblasting ^2nd and Waikato Finance 6^th.   These boats are very quick, looked a little flighty but Greg assures me this will be sorted with a bit of setup fine tuning.  Eta Ripples was doing well with two firsts and a second until they had a prop guard problem.  Kerry Wood in the Ezy Coupons boat lying third had a spectacular finish in the 9^th race running over the finish tower and breaking its leg clean off. 

Welcome back to Mark Dryer and family (AC Diggers) and Ben Fuller & co (Dirty Dog).  Nice to see Sara racing with Aaron in 'Build Smart'.  We could do with a few more ladies racing just to keep the guys in line! 

Last but not least the RD had some concerns on the day and although he was easy on most of the rule infringements do not expect this during the Championships.  Read up your rule books!

Thanks to all those that helped during the day and I for one am looking forward to the Championships.   

 Alan Astrop
Race Director

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Revised: December 8, 2003