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The weekend of November 7th and 8th saw organised racing of Hansa 303 and Liberties on Lake Ngaroto for the first time. The Hartley 16’s were holding their North Island Champs there and kindly let the Hansa classes share their course. As Lake Ngaroto is a peat lake, anyone expecting clear, sparkling waters could be disappointed, especially as the lake level was lower than usual due to maintenance on the outlet of the lake, but the friendly atmosphere make up for that. With very light breezes over both days, the start of racing was delayed on the Saturday, and a lack of wind also effected racing on the Sunday, although six races were finally completed. Seven Hansa boats competed, with Bob Knox winning the 303 division and John Buchanan the Liberty division. Full results can be viewed here. Sailability Waikato, working with Ngaroto Sailing Club held its first “Have A Go” day, using the New Zealand Hansa Class Association’s Hansa two 303s in November 2014, so they have made good progress. A ramp into the club rooms was built in October in time for the regatta, and I am sure the venue will become even more accessible in the future. To follow Ngaroto Sailing Club like them on Facebook and check out their website
