G'day from Australia.
Bram and others, I thought you might relish the thought of participating among
about 120 to 140 skiffs, from 12 to 18 ft in a world skiff regatta.
What better way to kick off the Swift Solo Class in Australia.
Regards, Ron
2007 World Skiff Regatta for Geelong, AUS
8:37 AM Fri 13 Jan 2006
'I-14's will be part of the 2007 World Skiff Regatta in Geelong' by
Richard Gladwell
Sail Melbourne management today announced that Royal Geelong Yacht Club will
conduct the inaugural World Skiff Regatta as part of 2007 Sail Melbourne
International Regatta between January 13th and 20th 2007.
The event will bring together 12ft, 14ft, 16ft and 18ft skiffs for one
spectacular regatta, in what will be a big month at Geelong, with Skandia
Geelong Week to follow over the Australia Day long weekend and will act as the
Interdominion Championship (akin to a world championship) for the 12 footers
and as such, will attract a strong contingent from New Zealand. The regatta
will also be the Australian Championship for both 14ft and 16ft skiffs;
guaranteeing a strong fleet in Geelong.
Having hosted a number of skiff titles in the past, Royal Geelong is the ideal
venue for the skiffs and Corio Bay will provide perfect conditions for these
speed machines. It will also be spectacular viewing along the shore line and on
the water for local sailing enthusiasts and the thousands who flock to Geelong
each year for their annual holidays.
Between 120 - and 140 skiffs and 300-350 of the best skiff sailors from
Australia and New Zealand, with the possibility of some international crews,
are expected to take part in what will be the most massive skiff sailing
display for some years.
Facilities in Geelong include storage, hardstand and good security with direct
launching access and a deepwater launching ramp. A huge social program is also
planned, including a Sailors Marquee; a 20m x 15m marquee as wet bar, BBQ area
and lounge will be set up on the hard stand, to provide for socializing at the
start and end of the day.
For competitors too, a free of charge internet facility with computers and
wireless networks. There are facilities for a number of 40 foot containers to
be unpacked, with permanent storage for containers available in nearby
locations and ample parking for trailers and cars right alongside the club.
The event was originally to have been hosted by Sandringham Yacht Club, but due
to their proposed construction of a new clubhouse and the more 'choppy' water
conditions normally experienced at Sandringham, Sail Melbourne has relocated
the event to Geelong.
Conditions at Geelong are ideal for skiff sailing, with reliable sea breezes
and far flatter water, due to the City's location on the smaller Corio Bay - a
subsidiary to the larger Port Phillip Bay.
RGYC, as host to Skandia Geelong Week, the largest keelboat regatta in the
Southern hemisphere, catering to over 450 entries, 6,000 competitors and
120,000 visitors each January, is accustomed to the logistics involved in
running a large international event successfully, ensuring a good time for all.
The inaugural World Skiff Regatta is the brainchild of Stewart Vickery from the
14ft skiff class who has worked for several years to make this event a reality.
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