Akaroa Classic and Traditional Boats Regatta 2009

The 2009 regatta proved to be most enjoyable on and off the water despite the adverse weather forecast for the weekend and the brief southerly blast that passed through late on Saturday afternoon.  Our judges Graham Mander and Dr Rodney Wilson gave all the boats a careful perusal as did the good crowd of supporters and public spectators who enjoyed seeing the wide range of craft on display.

Many of the participants appreciated the tour of the boats with owners telling something of the history and construction of their boats with the public vote for ‘My Favourite Boat’ proving to be very popular as well.  Children also enjoyed the new novelty event of building and sailing a boat made from junk The Dinner and Prizegiving on Saturday evening was enjoyed by over 50 diners.  Numerous stories were shared and many friendships renewed or made.

Unfortunately the Saturday afternoon inner harbour sail had to be cancelled because of adverse conditions but most boats were able to join the harbour cruise across to Tikao Bay on the Sunday morning.  This proved to be a most enjoyable cruise, a highlight being the kind hospitality and sumptuous refreshments provided at the Tikao Boating Club.

JUDGING RESULTS
Sail

1. Over 40yrs original “Warrego” Bob Gibson (ChCh)– RAN 14’ Sailing dinghy, 1952
2. Over 40yrs restored “Val Marie” Melvyn Sellwood (Ashburton) – Frostbite
3. New build “Salty Heaven 1” Tim Herbert  (ChCh) – Lug yawl

Motor

1. Over 40yrs original “Bellina” Gerard Miles (ChCh) – 16’ lapstrake runabout, 1940
2. Over 40yrs restored “Otira” Paul Pritchett (Church Bay) – Logan oil launch, 1902

Rowing

1. Over 40yrs original Antigua Boatshed rowing skiff, 1882-85, Ken McGill (ChCh)
2. New build “Bees Knees” Arthur Pretty (ChCh), Herreshoff 18’ skiff –

Special Prizes

1. Richard Powell (Timaru) 15’ double ended lapstrake canoe yawl
2. Neil McLennan (ChCh) “Thwistle” 19’6” Caledonian yawl
3. Public vote for ‘My Favourite Boat’ – “Warrego” – Bob Gibson
4. Furthest Distance Travelled – “Islesburgh” Ian & Alison Milne from Dunedin

Best Overall
“Islesburgh” – a 6m canoe yawl, by Ian Oughtred – Ian & Alison Milne (Dunedin)

As organisers we were delighted with the support given to us as well as the camaraderie and good spirit that was evident throughout the weekend.

THANKS
Through the generosity of sponsors and supporters, we were able to provide a better resourced regatta and we gratefully acknowledge and thank:

1. Christchurch City Council – for support funding and staff assistance at Akaroa
2. Akaroa District Promotions – Hollie Hollander for assistance and local publicity
3. Our Judges – Rodney Wilson & Graham Mander
4. Tikao Bay Boating Club – for generous hospitality
5. Bret de Thier Design – for poster and publicity designs

Also our grateful thanks to the following that provided prizes:

1. Onuku Heights B&B
2. Black Cat Cruises
3. A Class sailing – Akaroa
4. Harringtons Brewery
5. Boats NZ
6. Matua Gardens Retreat – Sue Lovett
7. Akaroa Guided Historical Walks – Suky Thompson
8. Oborns Nautical