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A number of world-class sailors are expected to compete at February's Oceanbridge NZL Sailing Regatta, especially as it will be sailed at the venue for the 2019 49er, FX and Nacra 17 world championships.
Entries are now open for the event, which will be held at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club from January 31-February 3 (racing Feb 1-3). You can find the entry form here and the
Entries received after midnight on January 21 will incur a late fee of $150.
A number of international sailors are venturing to New Zealand this summer to train with members of the NZL Sailing Team and to familiarise themselves with the conditions they're likely to face at the 49er, FX and Nacra 17 world championships next December.
The Oceanbridge NZL Sailing Regatta will also double as a selection event for the NZL Sailing Foundation Youth Team to compete at the 2019 Youth Sailing World Championships in Poland.
As many as 200 sailors are expected to compete at the Oceanbridge NZL Sailing Regatta. Along with the 49er, 49erFX and Nacra 17, there will also be racing in the Laser, Laser Radial, Finn, RS:X 9.5, 470, 29er, 420 and RS:X 8.5. Courses will be set in the vicinity of Bean Rock, with Browns Island and Rangitoto providing natural outer barriers.
"It's going to be a terrific event, especially with the 49er, FX and Nacra 17 world championships due to be sailed at the same venue later in the year," Yachting New Zealand's Stu Thomas said. "The Oeanbridge NZL Sailing Regatta is this country's premier Olympic and youth classes regatta and there will be plenty on the line for those competing.
"It will also be a great opportunity to run it as a test event at the same venue to be used for the world championships later in the year.
"Like any regatta, we rely on volunteers so we'd love to hear from anyone who can help out, whether it's every day or just for a small time."
For more information, see the event web page or contact Stu Thomas on stuart@yachtingnz.org.nz. Also contact Stu if you're able to help out as a volunteer.
