Issue date
Entries are open for February's Barfoot & Thompson Bridge to Bean Rock race, an event being described as a Round the Bays on water.
The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron are hosting a number of events in 2021 to mark their 150th anniversary and the Bridge to Bean Rock race on February 28 will feature a minimum of 150 dinghies and foiling vessels.
Entries from about 20 different classes are expected, from Optimists to kitefoilers and 49ers, and the RNZYS expect a number of classic M Class boats to be on the water as well.
The race will start under the Auckland Harbour Bridge and is set one way to Bean Rock, with the fleet split into three divisions.
The Bridge to Bean is being supported by local clubs and is a collegiate event for all Auckland dinghy and centreboard sailors. It also coincides with the annual Round the Bays which features thousands or runners and walkers.
The RNZYS are not just looking for participants but will also need fleet support and representatives from local clubs to assist with the event on the day. Please contact Nic Finlayson on nicjfin@outlook.com if you can help.
Prizes and trophies will be handed out at the official prizegiving held at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron following the event.
“After some great work from the Bridge to Bean committee, we are now ready to accept entries," RNZYS vice commodore and chair major projects 2021 Aaron Young said. "Like many of us, having raced dinghies myself as a youngster, I am passionate about making this inaugural B2B race an ongoing fixture for Auckland.
"To create this marquee event right around the America’s Cup is a great opportunity for us to include as many dinghies from all over the country.”
Former dinghy sailor and the world's second-ranked match Nick Egnot-Johnson is excited to be involved in this event.
“I grew up dinghy sailing. It’s where my love and passion for sailing began. I can’t wait to get back into a dinghy for the B2B race. With a minimum of 150 boats on the start line, it is going to be a sight to behold and I can’t wait to be involved.”
