Thirty three Seawind catamarans, valued at around $10 million, competed in the Seawind Pittwater Regatta held over the weekend (17-19 October) on Pittwater near Sydney, being the 10th time this event has been run. With such a strong fleet and close to 200 people attending, the regatta has grown to be Australia’s largest “Big Cat” regatta.
Entrants in Friday afternoon’s invitation race enjoyed a fresh 15-knot NE breeze and then relaxed afterwards at the Harken Cocktail Party at the Royal Motor Yacht Club, with a selection Wild Oats wines. Seawind’s Cruising Club website was launched, featuring forums, blogs, photo galleries and more, while Olympic Silver medalist Darren “Bundy” Bundock was interviewed by Seawind marketing manager Brent Vaughan, on his Olympic experience in China and his catamaran sailing career. Kids flocked to get Bundock’s autograph, while many other guests stopped to get their photo taken with Bundock and his silver medal.
By Saturday morning the conditions had eased to a maximum of only five knots. However, the beautiful sunshine meant there was more time for sunbaking on the large open decks on the catamarans, while back in the cockpit, picking the right side of Pittwater was vital as positions changed frequently.
The fleet rafted up in Towlers Bay for a very social lunch, with the Finlease Cappuccino boat providing complimentary coffees and ice-cream.
The breeze kicked in after lunch and a pleasant 12-knot NE breeze had the fleet enjoying every minute of the race down Pittwater and around Lion Island and finishing at the Basin, where the presentation party was later held.
At the Basin, the large marquee was bustling with about 200 people enjoying a night of catching up with other Seawind owners. There was a Pig-On-The-Spit catering and entertainment provided by a fantastic three-piece band. Some great sponsored awards were provided, including a Lifetag system from Raymarine, a chain-counter anchor winch conversion kit provided by Muir Winches, plus many more.
Seawind would like to thank major sponsors, FGI, Harken, Finlease, GME, Tempo Spars, Whitsunday Rent A Yacht, UK Halsey, and Yanmar and secondary sponsors, including Oatley Wines, B & L Supplies and Smart Boating, Hunts Marine, Barracouta Sails, Club Marine, Muir Winches, Raymarine, RW Basham, Ronstan, Tunbridge Signs, High Modulus and Sheets Ahoy.
Results:
Overall Handicap Winner: Seawind 1000 “Felix” William King
Seawind 1160 Winner: One More Steve Liddell
Seawind 1000XL Winner: Endless Summer Rohan Walter
Seawind 1000 Winner: Alize Phil Amos
For more information visit www.seawindcats.com
