Issue date
October 17-18 sees the hard out racer-cruisers and more laid back cruiser-racers gather for the annual weekend of 88 fun and games on and off the water out of Bucklands Beach Yacht Club.
On Saturday the open fleet will be sailing windward leeward courses West of Browns Island. They will be joined on Sunday by a restricted fleet with a maximum five crew and no spinnakers. The restricted format is a great way for those new to racing or preferring a more relaxed competition to join in the fun.
The in-form Zane Gifford will be back to defend his open fleet title in Raging Hormones and hoping to retain this magnificent trophy. We are also looking forward to some visiting boats from up the harbour to take on restricted fleet champion, BBYC’s Satellite.
This more laid back event provides an opportunity for some innovations around learning. There will be an amendment this year to allow on the water coaching plus North Sails led "dockside debriefs" both days after racing back at the marina following the very popular North U clinic format. This is a chance to get input from the experts re. opportunities to improve tactics, sail trim and maybe even use of rules.
North Sails will also be on hand to carry out any overnight repairs that may be required.
Saturday evening's social activities will be attended by the Young 88 venerable designer Jim Young. It will culminate in the major spot prize draw for those present of significant North Sails vouchers for new sails or repairs and a selection of other sponsors spot prizes.
The event will close with prize giving back at the club immediately after racing. There will be traditional and new awards given out including: line, handicap, 1st Corinthian (no pros), oldest crew, youngest crew, best dressed crew and whatever else is dreamt up.
As an added bonus this year, all skippers will receive a Live Sail Die Photo Coupon to the value of $25. This coupon can be used on the LSD store to claim one free high res digital file from the weekend. LSD professional photographer Lissa Reyden will be out there snapping away so make sure you smile for the camera!
Notice of race, entry details, event Q&A and Crew Wanted/Available can be found on the event web page www.young88.org.nz/OwnersChamps.html. Don’t forget to like the class on Facebook to see all the latest news www.facebook.com/YoungEightyEight.
