Currently sitting about two-thirds up the course the race continues. The six leading boats (Romanza, Equilibrium, Levity, Zephyrus, Vixen, and another which we can’t identify) have moved up past Whangarei Heads. Romanza is sitting out in front with a clear lead.
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The sun rose over Auckland this morning, casting a golden glow on the waters as the highly anticipated 2024 PIC Coastal Classic kicked off at 10am. Around one hundred boats were registered for the race but by this morning only 75 boats were ready to tackle the challenging 119 nautical mile course from Devonport Wharf to Russell Wharf, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. As the starting gun fired, the fleet surged forward, each vessel aiming to showcase its speed and skill amidst the elements.
As the race progressed, boats settled into their positions. Among the standout competitors was Fat Freddy, a 1980s Formula 40 multihull, whose dramatic comeback story captured the crowd’s attention. After a six-year rebuild led by Auckland sailor David Smith, Fat Freddy was determined to reclaim its place in the racing world. The boat’s sleek design and potential for line honours made it a frontrunner, with many eyes trained on its every move.
As the race unfolded, the thrill of competition was palpable. In a dramatic moment, Fat Freddy crossed ahead of Romanza, igniting a fierce rivalry that captivated spectators. This was not merely a race of boats but a classic struggle of the little guy versus the giant, where skill and strategy clashed on the open water.
The positioning of the fleet illustrated a mix of tactics, with early starters opting for a coastal route while others took a more direct line. Among the competitors, Highline and Steinlager II showed impressive speed and finesse, each pushing hard to maintain their lead. Their success depended not only on the capabilities of their vessels but also on the decisions made by their crews as they navigated the changing sea state.
The diversity of the fleet added to the race’s allure. Alegre, initially facing challenges with sail repairs, displayed remarkable resilience. The crew’s adaptability allowed them to thrive in the demanding conditions, reinforcing the idea that success in sailing hinges on both speed and strategy. This race is not just about crossing the finish line first; it’s about the journey, the teamwork, and the lessons learned along the way.
Meanwhile, Romanza continues to race with determination, reefing its main sail to navigate the increasingly turbulent conditions. With winds surpassing 20 knots and waves reaching 1.5 metres, the crew’s adjustments paid off as they pursued Fat Freddy, eager to capitalise on any opportunities.
However, the excitement has turned to concern, as of two hours ago (reported at 5:29pm by PIC Coastal Classic on their Facebook page), Fat Freddy suffered beam damage and issued a pan pan distress call. Fortunately, the crew reported no injuries, and Romanza, another contender, stood by to offer assistance. The Coastguard promptly dispatched a vessel from Marsden Cove to ensure a safe return for the crew. This incident highlighted the inherent risks of offshore racing, where unpredictable challenges can arise at any moment, demanding quick thinking and teamwork.
Way Points
All boats are required to check in at three key points: Flat Rock, Sail Rock, and Cape Brett. As of now, no boat has completed the race, and none have reached the third key point, Cape Brett.
As of posting, 30 boats have made it to Sail Rock, the second checkpoint. The fastest yacht to Sail Rock was Fat Freddy, clocking in at 16:27 (4:27 PM) today, but has since retired (RET). The second fastest was Highline, with a time of 16:34, closely followed by Romanza at 16:38. As seen in the America’s Cup, the lead can shift quickly in a boat race.
The fourth fastest to Sail Rock was Equilibrium, at 18:03, which is significantly slower than the top two yachts. However, right behind Equilibrium was Steinlager 2, finishing at Sail Rock with a time of 18:04. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing Steinlager 2 while sailing in the Gulf area, and it truly is a stunning yacht.
A total of sixty-three yachts have reached Flat Rock, the first check-in point. Among these, eight (potentially nine) have since retired from the race. Overall, 16 boats have been marked as Did Not Complete (DNC), and eight have retired (RET).
The Race Continues
With the dark setting in, the 2024 PIC Coastal Classic has proven to be a thrilling testament to the spirit of offshore sailing. Each competitor embodies the adventure and tenacity that define this sport, pushing their limits as they navigate the course toward Russell.
As the race continues, all eyes are on the unfolding drama, and the excitement remains palpable.
