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Excitement is building ahead of the 2023 PIC Coastal Classic, now only weeks away.
The 40th instalment of New Zealand’s great race takes place on October 20, and with over 80 entries already received, the organisers are confident they will see an impressive fleet of over 120 boats at the start line.
One of these is a striking yacht formerly owned by America’s Cup yachtsman Dennis Connor.
Poseidon II, a sleek Farr design sloop in blue and white livery, is now owned by Northlanders Mike Lodge and David Skudder.
At 18.3m (60ft) long, Poseidon II is the biggest of the entries so far and will race for Kerikeri Cruising Club.
Launched in 1998, Poseidon II raced extensively in New York and the eastern United States before coming into Connor’s ownership.
Lodge purchased the vessel from the America’s Cup great around seven years ago and sailed it home to New Zealand via Hawaii and Fiji.
“We just sail for fun with family and friends,” Lodge said.
Poseidon II, a sleek Farr design sloop in blue and white livery, has entered the 2023 PIC Coastal Classic. Photo / Supplied
Another remarkable contender is Elevation, a 7-meter vessel that clinched the coveted overall handicap victory last year – a remarkable feat, triumphing over larger vessels and even the swift multihulls.
The PIC Coastal Classic is an annual season-opener attracting yachts of all shapes and sizes that was first contested in 1982.
Commencing at Devonport Wharf in Auckland, this thrilling race culminates at Russell Wharf in the picturesque Bay of Island, spanning an impressive 119 nautical miles.
Mark your calendars as entries are set to close on Friday (October 6).
For more information, click here.
Main photo / LiveSailDie
