Issue date
The IOM New Zealand radio sailing Championships are being held in Hamilton this coming weekend on September 25-27. The venue is Hamilton Lake (Lake Rotoroa).
This year’s event has attracted some top level sailors from New Zealand, Australia and even South Africa. The fleet will include North Shore’s Ian Vickers, who achieved an excellent 4th place at this year’s championships in San Francisco. The Australian fleet will include Paul Jones, who has also competed very well at World events, with a couple of top 3 finishes.
With strong competition from both sides of the Tasman, and even a South African entry, this promises to be a very hotly contested event. Boat designs will also be closely watched, with World Class designs from New Zealand, Australia, Britain, Croatia and elsewhere.
The IOM (International One Metre) Class is arguably the most competitive radio sailing class. The sport attracts anybody from top “big boat” sailors to those of us who find it is a fascinating hobby; with endless opportunity to learn, have fun, and meet a great bunch of people.
The entry list of 50 boats is probably a record for a national championship in this country. There will be three fleets, with everybody striving to get into the next fleet up, or stay in the A-fleet. The beauty of the Heat Management System used is that nobody should feel overwhelmed by the competition. Sailors tend to find their own level in the competition, and end up sailing with people of similar ability and boat speed.
Full-size boat sailors might be surprised at how competitive the racing is, and how challenging the radio controlled boats are to sail. Many of the elements of full size sailing are there. Rules situations, tactics and changing wind conditions require fast responses. It’s a bit like watching a full size race from shore or on TV – except you are in control. Boat set up is all done on shore. Once boats are on the water the skipper has control over the rudder and the sheets.
Visitors are very welcome. So come along, have a look, and have a chat with some of our sailors. Racing starts at 11:15 on Friday, and 9:30 on Saturday and Sunday. Finish is around 3pm – 4pm each day.
