Issue date
Organisers of the PIC Coastal Classic yacht race are continuing to hold their course in planning this years’ race, despite the uncertainty presented by the global pandemic.
The NZ Multihull Yacht Club, who oversee the event, have every intention of running a race on October 23, 2020. The committee are evaluating solutions that allow the right level of safety and compliance at every Covid-19 alert level, while still delivering the fun Labour Day long weekend that Kiwi yachties have enjoyed for the last 38 years.
“Whether we need to move social events online, change the route of the course, or include virtual sailing, we will find a way to run the race” race director Megan Kensington said. “Regardless of which alert level we are living with at the time, the race will go ahead. We’re flexible and ready to make any changes required to suit public health advice and allow a great weekend’s sailing.”
Kensington is a new addition to the 2020 PIC Coastal Classic team and, as one of the country’s handful of international race officers, is able to utilise her knowledge. With more than 20 years’ experience running races on the Waitemata and with high profile events such as the America's Cup and Ocean Race, adapting to change and putting on the best race possible given any day’s conditions is what she strives for.
“Just like you won’t know the weather forecast this far in advance, you have to keep preparing your crew and boat for the variety of options that could present in the build up to the race,” she said.
Competitors and those interested in participating are reminded that it may take some time to obtain the necessary category 3 minus safety inspections and PHRF certificates, especially with less than 10 weeks until race day.
Starting in the vicinity of Devonport Wharf on the morning of Friday, October 23, the 119 nautical mile-long challenge from Auckland to Russell is again expected to draw well-seasoned yachties and beginner sailors alike for the Labour Day long weekend tradition. The event has typically signalled the start of the summer boating season since 1982 and has become one of the most important on New Zealand’s sailing calendar.
The PIC Coastal Classic is made possible only with thanks to primary sponsor PIC Insurance Brokers, a loyal team of long-standing event partners and many volunteers.
Competitors are now able to download the Notice of Race and Enter Online.
More information for media, spectators and participants is available online www.coastalclassic.co.nz, on Facebook @piccoastalclassic and Instagram @piccoastalclassic.
- Photo: Yachting New Zealand
