http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au RSS feeds for Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race 60 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/84/Ian-Stripey-Grant-Video-Tribute.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=84 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=84&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/84/Ian-Stripey-Grant-Video-Tribute.aspx Follow the link for a short video Vale to Stripey put together by the good people of VidPicPro.com... host Sun, 21 Apr 2013 06:03:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:84 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/81/Wedgetail-wins-the-QantasLink-65th-Brisbane-to-Gladstone-Yacht-Race.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=81 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=81&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/81/Wedgetail-wins-the-QantasLink-65th-Brisbane-to-Gladstone-Yacht-Race.aspx Bill Wilde was crowned as Courier Mail Cup winner today after a tight battle with Black Jack and Immigrant who were split by just over an hour on corrected time following thirty hours of intense racing.Bill first won the race in the previous incarnation of Wedgetail in 2010 and was delighted to emulate the achievement in his current yacht which bears the same name.For much of the race, smaller boats such as Wistari were predicted to take the honours but as the wind died overnight on Saturday, one by one they fell down the leader board leaving the faster yachts to dual it out for the top spot.The skill required for the win was one of intense concentration to squeeze the maximum out of the sails in the light and fluky conditions. The task was no doubt eased by have having renowned international sail maker Neil Pryde on board. host Sun, 31 Mar 2013 09:18:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:81 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/80/Wild-Thing-takes-Line-Honours-in-the-QantasLink-Brisbane-to-Gladstone-Yacht-Race.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=80 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=80&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/80/Wild-Thing-takes-Line-Honours-in-the-QantasLink-Brisbane-to-Gladstone-Yacht-Race.aspx Wild Thing took Line Honours in the QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race for the second year in a row this afternoon with a finish time of 16.05.43. The race record was never in danger during the race but despite this, the crew of Wild Thing were very pleased with the result after spending much of the race in a cat and mouse battle with their main rivals Black Jack who finished just 22 minutes behind after over twenty nine hours of racing. After an early lead for Wild Thing leaving Moreton Bay on Good Friday, a navigational error gave the advantage to Black Jack. Having gone back and correctly rounded the missed mark, Wild Thing gave chase overnight and eventually caught back up to Black Jack on the trip up the Fraser Island coast. Although Wild Thing managed to overhaul their rivals they never managed to entirely break loose of Black Jack’s attentions.Whilst Wild Thing celebrate their Citizens of Gladstone win, most of the rest of the fleet are still making their way to Gladstone so the chase for the race win and the coveted Courier Mail Cup is still well and truly on. Previous winners, Wedgetail, are currently looking to be in a good position to take the honours but it all depends on the wind overnight tonight with a couple of local Gladstone boats, Wistari and Immigrant, keen to wrestle the trophy from their grips. host Sat, 30 Mar 2013 10:38:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:80 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/79/Ian-Stripey-Grant-passes-away.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=79 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=79&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/79/Ian-Stripey-Grant-passes-away.aspx It is with great sadness that the Race Committee of the QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race announces the passing of Ian “Stripey” Grant. It is with extra significance and sadness that this occurred just after the race start yesterday (Friday 29th March). This year was due to be Stripey’s 53rd year of involvement with the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race; for many years he had been an integral part of the organisation and success of the Race. The thoughts of the Race Committee are with his family. There will be a one minute silence to remember Stripey during the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race presentation. The following is an article by Bob Ross: Ian 'Stripey' Grant, the tireless Brisbane sailing writer and press officer for the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club's Brisbane-Gladstone race for many years, died on Good Friday, after the start of the annual Queensland coastal classic. He was recovering in Greenslopes Hospital from a stroke he suffered on March 2 when he had a heart attack after a physio session. Race director Herb Prendergast earlier posted an item on the race web site acknowledging Stripey as a very valuable member of the race management crew. "He witnessed the first start in 1949 at the age of about 13 after pedalling his bike from Bulimba to Woody Point Jetty with his Vegemite sandwiches for lunch and his contribution to this race spans a period of 53 years, starting with a win, crewing on Mouse of Malhamaa in 1960 and about 1963 took up journalism," wrote Herb. "He has been in the race control room in Gladstone every year along with his wife Marie until about two years ago, whom he lost on March 12 after a long illness. "He was an expert at predicting the finishing time of yachts without reference to electronic assistance and could recall stories about every race and crew to entertain the control room for 24-hour periods." Stripey was the Queensland correspondent for Australian Sailing magazine from its first issue in 1976. He covered sailing for the Brisbane Courier Mail and Sunday Mail from before that time and was still doing so until the stroke. He also had a regular column in Afloat magazine, contributed to local Queensland publications and provided expertise to television crews covering Audi Hamilton Island Race Week. Over time, the proud Queenslander developed a distinctive style of reporting that always drew a chuckle: "The sheaves ran hot through the tacking duel." "Tactically-tormenting conditions." "Bramble Bay torture track." My absolute favourite was in a press release he prepared for the 2007 Brisbane-Gladstone race: "Ichi Ban remains short-priced favourite for the line honours trophy." "There is absolutely no truth in the rumour that Matt Allen is considering a pre-race name change from Ichi Ban (number one in Japanese language) to Ichi Bum in Aussie slang after the super sloop scorched her bottom peaking an anti-foul blistering boat speed of 33 knots during last week's race to the Gold Coast." So long old pal. - Bob Ross host Sat, 30 Mar 2013 04:16:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:79 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/78/Valuable-member-of-the-Race-Management-Crew.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=78 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=78&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/78/Valuable-member-of-the-Race-Management-Crew.aspx It is that time in the lead up to the QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht race when a very valuable member of the race management crew punches out a lot of media reports and this year he is not available. I refer to Ian (Stripey) Grant and for those who are not aware, he suffered a Stroke on the 2nd March and is in Greenslopes Private Hospital. He witnessed the first start in 1949 at the age of about 13, after peddling his bike from Bulimba to Woody Point Jetty with his Vegemite sandwiches for lunch and his contribution to this race spans a period of 53 years, starting with a win, crewing on Mouse of Malham in 1960 and about 1963 took up journalism. He has been in the Race Control room in Gladstone every year since along with his wife Marie until about two years ago, whom he lost on 12th March after a long illness. He was an expert at predicting the finish times of yachts without reference to any electronic assistance and can recall stories about any boat and crew to entertain the control room crew for 24 hour periods. Some of his journalistic phrases like “antifouling blistering speed”, “throwing buckets of water on the winches and turning blocks to stop them running hot” and “the Bramble Bay torture track” brought many a smile to reader’s faces. Well regarded along the east coast he covered most of the sailing regattas and has many friends, particularly with the younger generation, many of whom are just emerging from smaller craft to offshore events, who grew up with Stripey giving them encouragement and press coverage with their achievements. Our thoughts are with you Stripey and we all wish him a satisfactory recovery. He will be greatly missed in Gladstone this year. Herb Prendergast Race Director host Tue, 26 Mar 2013 04:21:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:78 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/77/QantasLink-Brisbane-to-Gladstone-starter-named.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=77 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=77&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/77/QantasLink-Brisbane-to-Gladstone-starter-named.aspx Gladstone Regional Council mayor Gail Sellers will fire the Start signal at 11am on board the start boat South Pacific 11, skippered by Ron Jenyns. This will be the 30th consecutive year for Ron and his boat carrying out this official task.The long range forecast for the start area of the QantasLink 65th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race is not consistent with a fast exit from Moreton Bay. Light variable NNW winds will give the 25 yachts an upwind leg to the first mark off Redcliffe Point before heading East towards Tangalooma and exiting the bay via the North West Channel to Caloundra Fairway where a light sea breeze from the North east will give a slow passage along the Sunshine Coast into Saturday.When asked about the chances of the race record of 20hrs 24m 50s being lowered, Race Director Herb Prendergast, offered a hesitant “it is shaping up to be one of the slowest races for some years however I have seen these forecasts before and the weather has changed dramatically overnight”.This year the Queensland Multihull Yacht Club feet of 8 yachts will start from the same line as the monohull fleet but twenty minutes later following a direction from Queensland Water Police. Prendergast said this was disappointing given the number of spectators who for years have gone to the Shorncliffe/Sandgate foreshore to witness the start. host Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:09:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:77 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/76/Sailing-days-are-over-but-racing-tales-last-a-lifetime.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=76 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=76&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/76/Sailing-days-are-over-but-racing-tales-last-a-lifetime.aspx BARRY Austin's sailing days are over but the tales he has to tell about the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race will last a lifetime.Between 1959 and 1964 Barry cherished many thrills of sailing in three Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Races.He has been a member of the Port Curtis Sailing Club for about 60 years.Barry relishes in his former racing days. The club patron said he missed the racing but was just too old for it now."I'm too slow and I won't go if I can't do my share," Barry said.The thrill of sailing the open seas in previous Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Races is one of Barry's great loves."I sailed two races on a boat called Mayra and one on Elva D."Throughout the journeys, Barry has picked up a few tales."In my first race in '59 there were seven of us on board and they all got sick down below," Barry began.The story continued as Barry relayed how the boat took an awful blow off Double Island Point.Soon after, Barry had to go down below to make some small repairs."Our yacht had tiles on the floor and I hit the floor from the companion stairs and I slid all the way up to the bow."After getting things organised, Barry said the drama still wasn't over."One of our crew members, Bob, cooked up a big stew and it simply smelt beautiful," he said."The doctor, who owned the boat, decided he was going to come up and have a look around but in the meantime, Bob had put this pot of stew down alongside the companionway."Barry said the doctor then walked through the bile and stood in the stew."I looked at Harry, the skipper, and said, 'Geez I'm hungry mate' and he said, 'Me too'. "We ate the stew after the doc had stood in the stew," Barry laughed.Looking back, Barry cherished every moment.He said there were three stages to a race."The adrenalin is pumping that hard at the start it will blow you apart, particularly up Fraser, then when you come up here."You find everyone waiting for you. It's adrenaline pumping."In the earlier years Barry recalls a rather cheeky memory."Another tradition for finishing is the bottle of rum used to come out," he chuckled. The adrenalin is pumping that hard at the start it will blow you apart, particularly up Fraser, then when you come up hereFollowing that, the after party consisted of the crews getting billeted out."They would tie up and there would be business people that would take them home for a shower and meal."The party would then be down at the art gallery."With the availability of technology, Barry agreed these days it was far easier to communicate during the race than in earlier days."When they started in the first race they had homing pigeons," he said. "They use to put a note on the leg of the pigeon and let it go to let you know where the yacht was."His report continued with a catch line."But the story goes that they ran low on tucker. And the pigeons became the dinner," he laughed.Barry said some of the sights you would come across during the race were picturesque."Coming up Fraser as the moon's coming up out of the sea and it's just coming up off the top of the horizon off the water."It's just something you can't describe - you have to see it for yourself." Tammy Lewis - Gladstone Observer host Mon, 25 Mar 2013 00:01:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:76 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/75/New-sailing-cup-joins-States-Season-of-Sailing.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=75 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=75&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/75/New-sailing-cup-joins-States-Season-of-Sailing.aspx Queensland’s 2013 Season of Sailing has introduced a ‘Season of Sailing Cup’ to encourage more sailors and holidaymakers to take part. Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games Jann Stuckey said the Season of Sailing concept was launched four years ago and since then the sport’s popularity had been on the rise. “To promote further growth, a new points system will be introduced in 2013 whereby the more Season of Sailing regattas sailors compete and score in, the better chance they have of wining the inaugural ‘Season of Sailing Cup’,” Ms Stuckey said. “The points tally will begin at today’s first event – Sail Paradise Gold Coast, and culminate at Magnetic Island Race Week where the Cup winner will be announced.” Ms Stuckey said the Queensland Season of Sailing campaign was driven by Tourism and Events Queensland in partnership with sailing regatta organisers, regional tourism organisations and tourism operators. Director of five Queensland Season of Sailing regattas Dennis Thompson said the new Cup would help create a stronger interest in the series, promoting increased participation in multiple events across Queensland. “The Cup will help raise awareness about the season among the sailing fraternity as well as encourage more Australians to experience one of Queensland’s favourite pasttimes – whether they’re beginners or professionals,” Mr Thompson said. “The holiday deals promoted through the Season of Sailing campaign are designed to encourage people to stay on and holiday in Queensland before or after the sailing events take place.” Ms Stuckey said the 2013 season incorporated seven events across Queensland during what was traditionally a quieter holiday period. Individual race events for Queensland’s Season of Sailing 2013 are: Sail Paradise Gold Coast: 15-17 March Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race: 29-30 March Etchells Australasian Winter Championships, Sunshine Coast: 6-9 June Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race: 2-5 August Airlie Beach Race Week: 9-16 August Hamilton Island Race Week: 17-24 August Magnetic Island Race Week: 29 August–3 September host Fri, 15 Mar 2013 02:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:75 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/74/Crew-News.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=74 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=74&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/74/Crew-News.aspx v\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} o\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} w\:* {behavior:url(#default#VML);} .shape {behavior:url(#default#VML);} Normal 0 false false false false EN-AU X-NONE X-NONE /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0cm; mso-para-margin-right:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0cm; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-language:EN-US;} QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Legends The QantasLink Legends of Brisbane to Gladstone pre-race party is on Saturday 23rd March. Starting at 1830hrs, the evening includes live music from 'Upenders' and Tim Cassidy presenting "My life in Yachts". In previous years, tickets to this event have been $70 per head. However, this year we want to see many more crew members celebrating this great race so tickets for the 65th anniversary event are just $25.00 and INCLUDE a welcome drink and canapes for the evening. To help with planning we ask that you purchase your tickets prior to Thursday next week. They can be purchased from the office during the week either by phone, email (tickets@qcyc.com.au ) or in person or over the bar during this weekend. --Members & non members welcome -- Smart Casual -- Cash Bar -- No door Sales -- Yacht Tracking The yacht tracking for 2013 is supplied by Yellowbrick. Shore based supporters will be able to follow your progress through the race website. Iphone and Ipad users can also keep upto date in the move by downloading the Race Viewer app from the app store; search word is "yellowbrick". Keeping in touch before and during the Race Don’t forget to “Like” the QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to received automatic updates to your timelines and why not to join in the conversation both before and during the race (Twitter hashtag: #b2g13). The Twitter feed also features on the tracker site so you can commentate whilst you watch. If Facebook and Twitter are not your thing you can still keep bang up to date by following the news feed on the Homepage of the Race website. Commemorative Clothing & Racewear In association with our Official Clothing Suppliers, Gill, the 65th Anniversary clothing range will shortly be on sale. You can grab a sneak peek of what is available on the race website . To make your purchase, you can buy online, visit QCYC at any time up until the start (stocks expected to arrive early next week) or drop into Race Control in Gladstone. There is limited stock of most items so you are advised to purchase early to avoid disappointment. Luggage Truck to Gladstone A luggage truck will be leaving the Queensland Crusing Yacht Club shortly before the race start bound for Gladstone. Competitors are able to make use of this service by purchasing luggage vouchers from the QCYC office. The luggage truck will also be returning to Brisbane on the Monday or Tuesday following the race. Competitors can utilise this service by contacting Race Control in Gladstone or catching up with the Race Committee at the conclusion of the Presentation Ceremony. For full details, packing times and prices see here. Pre Race Briefing The Pre Race Briefing will be held 1830h (registration from 1800hrs) on Wednesday 27th March at QCYC. Skippers are reminded that two members from each yacht are required to attend. Due to space restrictions, we request that no more than two per boat attend the briefing itself although all crew are welcome to the Club bar during the evening. Sailing Instructions Sailing Instructions will be available from the race website prior to Friday 22nd March. Skippers will be emailed as soon as they are available. host Fri, 15 Mar 2013 00:32:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:74 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/73/Single-handed-dinghies-to-Ocean-racing.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=73 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=73&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/73/Single-handed-dinghies-to-Ocean-racing.aspx Former Australian World Youth championship Laser skipper Curtis Skinner has made a successful transition from single handed dinghies to ocean racing.The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron member has not rested on his laurels since representing Australia at the Volvo World Youth championships while gaining valuable experience on the physically demanding ocean racing circuit.He already has the distinction of being a winning crew member in Queensland’s premier blue water classic the Brisbane to Gladstone Race and has successfully completed three Rolex Sydney Hobart races.On Good Friday Morning he will pack his sea bag onboard the Bill Wild owned and skippered Wedgetail along with a group of high profile sailors including Hobart race veterans Ian Davis Kevin Costin, Ashley Deeks and highly experienced New South Wales yachtswoman Vanessa Dudley .As expected Billl Wild has made no secret about his ambition to win his second Brisbane to Gladstone Race and has the crew manning the important sail handling on deck to produce the required boat speed to allow the exciting Wedgetail to outpace her handicap rating.Their line honours win in the Pittwater to Coffs Harbour race in January suggests Wedgetail will be on the pace to pose a threat when they go head to head with the equally impressive 2012 QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone winner the Mark Bradford skippered Black Jack.The Black Jack crew fresh from their outstanding corrected handicap class win in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race last December understandably enter the 308 n/ml ‘Drag Race’ to Gladstone full of confidence.However there is a strong indication that the high profile Black Jack crew will need to reproduce their 2012 race form to ward off the challenge from the equally aggressive Wedgetail racing team.This will be the first time that both crews have placed their respected reputations on the line in what promises to become a tactical dogfight for the honour of having the name of their yacht engraved on the 65 year old Courier Mail Cup.The form of Black Jack who became the first yacht in history to record a class win in the Rolex Sydney Hobart and a Gladstone Race victory in the same year deserves to be the pre-race favourite.But they will be drawn to respect the equally determined Wedgetail crew who will be determined to give the popular owner skipper Bill Wild the chance to emulate his win in 2010.This also embraces a challenge for Curtis Skinner who will man the navigators nook to become tactically with the race strategy to allow Wedgetail to produce the required handicap rated boat speed to win a boat on boat mate against mate arm wrestle over the race favourite Black Jack. host Wed, 27 Feb 2013 00:43:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:73 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/72/Schooner-Sails-under-Safe-Hands.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=72 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=72&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/72/Schooner-Sails-under-Safe-Hands.aspx Experienced female navigator Robin Elkington will again man the Navigators nook when the 30m schooner South Passage contests the 65th QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone race over the Easter weekend. Robin Elkington a 24 race veteran has been an inspiration for a number of Female Ocean racing sailors who have faced the demands of setting sail on the physically tormenting open ocean elements. A similar situation will apply when the 30 member crew comprising a group of female cancer charity fund raisers share the spacious crew quarters and stand to man the sails under the orders of their experienced navigator. Yacht racing will become a treasured experience for several of the crew who have diligently raised funds in support of the national cancer charity Redkite to earn a berth to become a Gladstone Race sailor for the first time. During their voyage of personal discovery the rookie crew members will have the opportunity to bond with one of Australia’s more experienced female ocean sailors while leaning the valued skills of personally trimming the sails on the triple mast schooner. While they remain proud to wear a 2013 sailing for Redkite crew shirt the race over what has often been described as a 308 nautical mile torture track has also been known as a test of character. However Robin Elkington who has charted a safe course for South Passage r to record popular wins in the Cruising class has the important sea miles to provide the new Sailing For Redkite charity workers to gain another important reward for supporting the children and young adults who are suffering from cancer.   host Mon, 25 Feb 2013 01:58:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:72 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/71/Black-Jack-to-defend-the-Courier-Mail-Cup.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=71 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=71&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/71/Black-Jack-to-defend-the-Courier-Mail-Cup.aspx Popular Brisbane yacht owner Peter Harburg buoyed with an outstanding 2012 season of blue water racing has entered his speed sailing sloop Black jack for the 308 n/ml Qantaslink Brisbane To Gladstone race. Black Jack skippered by the experienced big boat helmsman Mark Bradfrord is the prerace favourite following their outstanding season of racing in 2012 where the crew combined cleverly to record a runaway Gladstone race win followed by an equally brilliant performance to claim the IRC class trophy in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race in late December. The professional analysis of the yachts North Sails wardrobe backed with a go hard attitude by her crew has been rewarded with Black Jack now ranked as Australia’s fastest pocket maxi. Her crew who have spent the past four years on a steep learning curve to master the sloops speed sailing potential including the critical technique of adjusting the canting keel ballast for maximum performance. They have finally graduated with their outstanding Sydney Hobart Race result which they hope to repeat when they defend their 2012 Courier Mail Cup win over the tactically demanding Brisbane to Gladstone coastal passage race course over the Easter Weekend. Meanwhile as the countdown to the race start at 11am on Good Friday Black Jack remains as the 2013 Gladstone Race favourite while former race winner’s Bill Wild (Wedgetail) Ian Kenny (The Gambler) and Scott Patrick helming the Gladstone sloop Wistari are among the likely challengers. By Ian Grant.   host Tue, 19 Feb 2013 06:55:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:71 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/70/Return-of-the-Gambler.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=70 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=70&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/70/Return-of-the-Gambler.aspx Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron’s Ian Kenny has made a surprise return to contest the 65th QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone race over the Easter Weekend. Skipper Kenny who proudly raced The Gambler to win the physically and tactically demanding 308 n/ml classic 23 years ago has applied some advanced modern technology to guarantee the former champion will be on the pace to match race her more modern rivals when the start signal is fired at 11 am on Good Friday. He has told Race Director Herb Prendergast that a suit of new sails and sleek new paint work will enhance the chances for the older generation yacht to set the required handicap rated pace against her more modern rivals. There is no doubt skipper Kenny will make a reference to his tactical notes which produced his only Courier-Mail Cup win in 1990 after he steered The Gambler to record the impressive score of 2-2-5-3 in 1986, 1987, 1988, and 1989. The return of the past champion has attracted interest however her skipper known among the offshore racing circles as ‘a quiet achiever’ understands that The Gambler will have to be raced harder and faster to stand a chance of repeating her star performance from 1990. The experienced owner skipper has not entered the historical 65th race just for the glory because he believes the Old Girl will be competitive.   Ian Grant host Tue, 19 Feb 2013 05:52:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:70 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/69/Spinnaker-Tales.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=69&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/69/Spinnaker-Tales.aspx 800x600 Normal 0 false false false EN-AU X-NONE X-NONE MicrosoftInternetExplorer4 /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0cm 5.4pt 0cm 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0cm; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:10.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","serif";} Dual Australian IRC championship winning Sunshine Coast skipper Rod Jones and his highly talented A5 Alegria V Ocean racing crew have listed the Rolex Sydney Hobart Race as their major challenge for the 2013 Australian blue water racing season. Jones not unlike many other yacht owners has always had the personal passion to test his skill in the gruelling 628 nautical mile race to Hobart and considered the race as unfinished business when his crew of Sunshine Coast sailors won the prestigious Audi National championship trophy in yachts believed to be too small to race on the storm tormented Tasman Sea. His search for a likely Hobart race challenger ended with the purchase and subsequent speed sailing re-vamp of the Hugh Welbourn designed Heaven Can Wait which gained the distinction of being a top performer on the International open 50 regatta circuit besides winning the Grand Prix class trophy at Hamilton Island Race Week when helmed by her original owner Warren Johns. The proven pedigree of Heaven Can Wait has since  been ‘tweaked’ with a power sailing new rig configuration which was put to the test during the Surf to City (Gold Coast to Sandgate) race when the crew handled a physically demanding headwind sailing test to win the line honours trophy. They have successfully mastered the required crew technique to race the larger and more powerful  sloop and their results including winning the best in the Nation titles twice suggests the A5 Alegria V crew will be boat prepared to face a busy offshore racing challenge next month which includes the XXXX Queensland IRC class championship over the Southport Yacht Club courses on the 15th-17th March followed by the 308n/ml Qantaslink Brisbane to Gladstone blue water classic starting on Good Friday March 29th. However the entry list for the important Southport Yacht Club hosted Queensland championship and the Queensland Cruising Yachts Club’s Brisbane to Gladstone race promises to provide the Sunshine Coast crew with a supreme test of tactical racing particularly against the strong group of match racing Farr 40’s including Bribie Star and Keel Train skippered by experienced Sunshine Coast helmsmen Ken Down and Greg Torpy. Down who has the career distinction of being a member of an Australian Admirals Cup winning team held the edge over Torpy to win the class Queensland championship during a windy weekend in October. But Torpy a former Etchells World championship winning crew and Australian Olympian nominated as the sailing master with a young crew of Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron sailors on Keel Train believes his crew is not far away from creating a tactical headache for the more experienced rivals. They terminated some sails during the torrid Queensland Farr 40 series which ultimately damaged their point score however according to their mentor the enthusiastic Keel Train crew will be ready to engage the more favoured A5 Alegria V and Bribie Star when the battle lines are drawn for class honours in the 308 n/ml Brisbane to Gladstone Race over the Easter Weekend.  host Wed, 06 Feb 2013 00:17:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/68/December-Enews.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=68 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=68&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/68/December-Enews.aspx QantasLink is proud to announce their continuation of naming rights sponsor for the 65th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race.   Expressions of Interest First up, the slogan for next race is “65 for the 65th” and the credit for this goes to Gladstone’s Brad Barker. 65 entries that is, so let’s see what we can do.   The 2013 race is another milestone in the history of the event. The Race Committee would appreciate early advice from yacht owners/charterers of their intention to enter the QantasLink, 65th Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race by forwarding the yacht name and basic details along with contact details to rd@brisbanetogladstone.com.au as soon as possible please. This assists greatly with trophy purchases and allocation and also with number of tracking units required as it is anticipated there will be some big changes with this system next Easter.   The tide on Good Friday is the best for some years with a high of 2.22m at1040.   Radio Communications Kordia Solutions will again be conducting the HF Radio Skeds through Charleville Radio with their Operators based in Canberra. Their professionalism adds greatly to the prestige of the race and as a result of Kordia’s first involvement with us 4 years ago, they now handle HF communications not only for the B2G but for Brisbane – Keppel, Brisbane – Noumea, partially with Sydney – Southport, the 2013 Melbourne – Osaka, NSW, Victorian and South Australian Maritime Radios. Kordia may also be involved with Yacht Tracking from 2013 with a trial run planned for the Surf to City Yacht Race on 19th January 2013     65th Race Milestones Good Friday, 29th March 2013 will see the 30th anniversary of Ron Jenyns and his beautiful boat South Pacific 11 officiating as Start Boat of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race. This milestone corresponds with the Airline Industry being directly associated with this race, when Trans Australia Airlines took on Naming Rights in 1983 and continued in various ways with Australian and Sunstate Airlines through to the present day with QantasLink.   This race will also see the 30th anniversary of the Gladstone SES contribution of setting up and running the Finish line. Over the Easter weekend they have about 20 volunteers on a rotating shift carrying out this important task. Grahame Smith and Doug Savage have been involved since day one.   Another milestone to look forward to next Easter is the 53rd anniversary of Ian (Stripey) Grants association with the B2G. Ian first sailed the race in 1960 on Mouse of Malham, winning the race, skippered by Norman Wright and owned by Bill Dayhan-Smith. In 1964 he turned his skills to yachting journalism and has been a fixture in Race Control every year since, supported by his wife Marie.   The Gladstone end At a meeting with the Harbour Master in Gladstone on the 28th November we were assured that traffic on the harbour will not affect the running of the Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race and the finish line will be in the same position as last race. Further Dredging is programmed for Auckland Creek and at the Marina finger heads where the deep draft yachts have been moored in recent years   Race Control Office Although VMR Gladstone is now resident in their new base at the far end of the Marina Basin, the Race Control Office will still be in the former VMR lecture room (same as last year).   Notice of Race The Notice of Race is now available for download at www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au Entry to the race will open shortly.     ORCi Category ORCi Category has again been included for 2013 given the number of yachts now being measured under this system to verify Stability criteria but the Courier Mail Cup will still be awarded to the Overall Winner of the IRC Category.   Charts Some 300 series charts have been discontinued and replaced by 800 series charts. The Chart requirement is now AUS 815, AUS 816, AUS 818, AUS 819, AUS 246, AUS 245, & AUS 235. The latest Qld Transport Chart for Moreton Bay – Manly to Mooloolaba – Code MB1.   Gladstone Accommodation Our advice is that the accommodation crisis in Gladstone will have eased by Easter but shop around as the price has not eased in proportion with demand.   Crew Eligibility Yacht Owners and Skippers are reminded to ensure; 1) crew are compliant with Clause 55 of Part 4 – Other Requirements when Racing 2) crew SSSC and First Aid certification are current.   Radio Partners Radio partner, 4BC is also back for the 8th consecutive year and Zinc Gladstone, who have supported the race forever, are planning high frequency on-air campaigns to promote the 65th race.   On behalf of the members of Queensland Cruising Yacht Club we extend our best wishes for a safe, enjoyable and rewarding journey to all those competing in any of the offshore races over the Christmas/New Year period and also a Merry Christmas and more prosperous and Happy New Year. Remember 65 for the 65th …………..get your mates interested!   host Mon, 10 Dec 2012 06:33:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:68 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/67/Black-Jack-too-classy.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=67 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=67&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/67/Black-Jack-too-classy.aspx Peter Harburg’s Black Jack ocean racing crew left nothing on the water to eventually pave the way to win 64th QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Race by a comfortable margin over the Easter weekend.Black Jack skippered by Mark Bradford entered a challenge to win the tactically testing 308 n/ml classic 4 years ago. They won line honours in 2009 and 2010 and were outpaced by Peter Millard’s Lahana in 2011 however they fell short of the achieving owner Peter Harburg’s ambition to win the race on corrected handicap.Interestingly Peter Harburg has a personal passion for motor sport naming his yacht Black Jack after his good friend and World champion Sir Jack Brabham has continued to provide his Black Jack racing team with the inspiration and budget to now be recognised as Queensland’s best in the sport.His encouragement and persistence was rewarded over the Easter Weekend when Black Jack skilfully sailed for almost 23 hours in a nip and tuck tactical tussle against the larger super maxi’s Wild Thing (Grant Wharington) and Lahana (Peter Millard) was officially declared the overall winner in Gladstone yesterday.The Black Jack crew now understand that there are rewards for doing the hard yards which involved a high number of sail changes, gybes and sets during their line honours arm wrestle against their maxi rivals.Mark Bradford had the belief that if it came down to a ‘slug fest’ that his crew of good mates would come out on top.“We are made up from a team of good mates who are dedicated to make our program succeed and this result represents a deserved reward”. He Said. Their collective professional attitude was applied for almost 23 hours of highly intensive offshore sailing resulted in Black Jack producing a runaway 2 hour 43 minute 50 second corrected time win over Lahana (Peter Millard) while Rob Hanna’s TP 52 Shogun V filled third another 1 hour 33 minute 7 seconds astern. host Mon, 09 Apr 2012 01:02:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:67 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/66/Yachts-becalmed-in-coastal-parking-lot.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=66 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=66&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/66/Yachts-becalmed-in-coastal-parking-lot.aspx Nature played a major role in closing the doors on the smaller yachts in the 308 n.ml QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race over night.Unfortunately the predicted change in coastal weather dramatically ended any chance for crews of 41 yachts to maintain the required handicap rated boat speed to break the big boat strangle hold in deciding the 64th outright winner of Queensland’s premier blue water classic.The crews of line honours trophy winner Grant Wharington’s Wild Thing, Black Jack (Mark Bradford) and Lahana (Peter Millard) who featured in a tactical match race in ideal conditions to be separated by 6.9 seconds per mile at the end of what proved to be an exciting chase to change the 20 hour 40 minute 50 second record.A softening wind eliminated the record challenge 20 nautical miles from the finish while a tactical match race continued before Grant Wharington finally steered the 30m Wild Thing to her 17 minute 29 second win over the Mark Bradford skippered 20.6 m Black Jack with another 18 minutes 16 seconds to Peter Millard’s 30m Lahana.They were happy to be onshore and enjoying the traditional post race hospitality on the deck of the Port Curtis Sailing Club when their interest turned towards who was most favoured to win the race outright.As the wind continued to fade at sea and the hour’s ticked by interest swung in favour of the big boats. Black Jack which was aggressively sailed to record a performance well above her waterline length progressively firmed as the most favoured when the calm conditions stalled all other challengers including handicap favourite Robert Hanna’s impressive Royal Geelong Yacht Squadron TP 52 Shogun V.“Our crew left nothing on the race course completing a huge workload which has ultimately given our respected owner Peter Harburg the opportunity to fulfil a personal ambition after finishing second last year”. Mark Bradford said.Peter who attended the inaugural race start in 1949 with his father the late ABC Sport Broadcaster Clive Harburg has a personal passion about winning in the memory of his famed father.That personal wish promises to be answered later today when the expertly prepared and tactically well raced Black Jack is declared the 64th winner of the Courier Mail Cup. host Sat, 07 Apr 2012 19:10:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:66 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/65/Wild-Thing-runs-out-of-time.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=65 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=65&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/65/Wild-Thing-runs-out-of-time.aspx Wild Thing ran out of time and distance to set a new race record in the 64th Qantaslink Brisbane to Gladstone race this morning.Skipper Grant Wharington said the result was very much touch and go for the first to finish honour between their 30m super maxi Wild Thing and the smaller 20.3 m Brisbane maxi chaser Black Jack.The Mark Bradford skippered Black Jack winner of the line honours trophy in 2009 and 2010 staged a three way nip and tuck match race with Wild Thing and her rival super maxi Lahana when the three high performance yachts raced towards Gladstone at record breaking pace over night.Unfortunately the first signs of the record challenge fell apart when the high pressure system which had directed a fast sailing trade wind onto the coast drifted offshore leaving behind a weakening wind system.This favoured the larger maxis Wild Thing and Lahana to exercise the advantage of larger sail area and longer waterline but the crew on Black Jack clearly showed why they are known as the best maxi chaser combination in the nation.They had shared the lead at various stages in what Grant Wharington described as a great race. “It was like racing in the sun with the glow from the full moon lighting up the deck overnight”. He Said.Thankfully the change in wind velocity and direction allowed Wild Thing to slip ahead as all three yachts entered the final 25 nautical miles when the record challenge expired at 7-40-50 this morning.Wild Thing finally ended the interesting line honours match race when they crossed the finish line at 9-34-24, 1 hour 53minutes 34 seconds outside their 20 hour 40 minute 50 second record set in 2004. While Black Jack filled second 17 minutes 34 seconds later followed by the Peter Millar skippered Lahana another 18 minutes 16 seconds astern. host Sat, 07 Apr 2012 10:34:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:65 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/64/Line-honours-match-race.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=64 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=64&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/64/Line-honours-match-race.aspx Peter Harburg’s 20.3 m Black Jack was engaged in a nip and tuck match race against the 30m super maxi yachts Lahana (Peter Millard) and Wild Thing (Grant Wharington) when they tracked on a fast pace along the Sunshine Coast this afternoon.A course error forced Wild Thing the current record holder to lose valuable time when the leaders sailed into a soft wind shadow near Moreton Island.Crew spokesperson Kelly Matthews simply explained the error as a‘stuff up’ and I’m wearing the blame. She said.However when Wild Thing sailed clear of the Moreton Island wind shadow she soon made up the lost time to enter into an interesting duel with Lahana and Black Jack.All three yachts had continued to log fast speed in the 15 knot breeze with the well sailed Black Jack putting together a strong performance.They were reported to be romping fast under spinnakers with the race tracker regularly registering the peak speed at 17.5 knots.Based on their positions this afternoon the three yachts remain on track to chase down the race record of 20 hours 40 minutes 50 seconds set by Wild Thing 8 years ago.As expected Robert Hanna’s TP52 Shogun V has firmed a strangle hold on the provisional corrected handicap to lead the wave surfing Gladstone yacht Wistari and the veteran Mackay yacht Matangi.However all crews are expecting to face a moderating wind after dusk as the high pressure system in the Tasman Sea drifts off to the east. host Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:59:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:64 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/63/Lahana-leads.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=63 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=63&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/63/Lahana-leads.aspx Peter Millard steered the Sydney maxi Lahana into a narrow lead in the QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Race on Moreton Bay earlier today.Lahana the defending line honours champion was locked into a close race with the smaller Brisbane sloop Black Jack (Mark Bradford) and the race record holder Grant Wharington’s Wild Thing when the three yachts tracked a course towards the navigation mark to enter the North West shipping channel.The Royal Geelong Yacht Club TP52 Shogun V (Robert Hanna) was also well placed sailing in clear wind in fourth place and holding a strong position to remain in the challenge to win on handicap.Wind conditions of a light 10 knot southerly provided the fleet of 45 yachts with a colourful spinnaker start however the race leaders will need to pick up the pace when they enter the open ocean waters off Caloundra later today to hold any chance setting a new race record. They have a target time to finish before 7-40-50 am tomorrow to eclipse the present 20 hour 40 minute 50 second record set by Grant Wharington’s maxi in 2004. host Fri, 06 Apr 2012 10:50:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:63 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/62/Race-record-expected-to-roll.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=62 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=62&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/62/Race-record-expected-to-roll.aspx Grant Wharington confidently believes his QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Race record of 20 hours 40 minutes and 50 seconds set by Skandia Wild Thing in 2004 stands to be challenged over the Easter weekend.“All of the coastal weather with a constant 15-20 knot trade wind blowing suggests we are up for a fast race”. “My crew will complete their final training on Moreton Bay later today and will be race ready for what promises to another exciting yacht race”. He said.His personal confidence is buoyed by the recordings registered on the wind velocity metres located at the Cape Moreton and Double Island Point lighthouses overnight.At Double Island Point the breeze never fell below 15 knots however the direction varied between South and East South East which indicates the tacticians will need to be flexible with their strategy.This weather forecast will certainly suit the spinnaker sailing speed of Wild Thing and her major line honours challenger the Peter Millard helmed 2011 line honours champion Lahana when both experienced crews enter into their private ‘tug o war’ style match race.Both 30 metre super speed sailing big boats who are nominated as the joint favourites for the Citizens of Gladstone line honours trophy promise to become tactically involved in a 308 nautical mile ‘Drag Race’.Selection of race strategy will play a major role in separating these outstanding blue water racing crews and naturally both skippers Grant Wharington (Wild Thing) and Peter Millard (Lahana) are remaining very protective of their tactical options.However both are aware that the breeze normally blows stronger well offshore and they will need to race in the stronger breeze to log the required speed averages to finish before 7-40-50 am on Easter Saturday to set a new race record.The expected moderate to fresh spinnaker and two sail reaching wind and associated 3 metre ocean swell will also set an interesting struggle in place to decide the overall winner on corrected time.Robert Hanna’s exciting speed sailing Royal Geelong Yacht Club TP 52 Shogun V remains as the favourite however her smaller challengers including the 8 time race winner the Sandy Cavill skippered Saltash ll and the four time champion Wistari (Scott Patrick) have the ‘track record’ and the shorter hull length that could allow them to surf the waves to victory. host Thu, 05 Apr 2012 01:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:62 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/61/Gladstone-race-crews-prepare-for-a-brute-breeze.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=61 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=61&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/61/Gladstone-race-crews-prepare-for-a-brute-breeze.aspx A prominent high pressure system in the Tasman Sea has provided an ideal forecast for the 64th QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race starting off the historical Sandgate Pier on Good Friday morningThe system has extended a strong southerly air flow onto the South Queensland coast promising the fleet of 45 yachts representing Victorian, New South Wales and Queensland clubs with spectacular and fast spinnaker sailing conditions.Wind recorders located at Cape Moreton, Double Island Point and Lady Elliot Island registered southerly gusts between 15-20 knots overnight while forecasters predict the wind to build along with a white crested 3m ocean swell.This forecast and combined wind velocity will present the competitively strong fleet with a supreme test of ocean racing while enhancing the possibility of the 20 hour 40 minute 50 second record set by the Grant Wharington skippered Skandia Wild Thing in 2004 being challenged.Wild Thing and the 2011 line honours champion the Peter Millard skippered Sydney maxi Lahana are listed as the joint line honours favourites ahead of the 2009 and 2010 champion Black Jack (Mark Bradford) while the smaller Royal Geelong Yacht Clubs impressively fast 16m Robert Hanna skippered Shogun V remains as favourite to win on corrected handicap.However the expected rugged wind velocity and the confused nature of the three metre ocean swell promises to sort the best from the rest with the important helming skills to avoid time consuming and nerve bending wipe-out style broaches playing a major role in determining which crew will win the prestigious 64 year old Courier Mail Cup.As expected all of the crews who have experienced the spray drenching spinnaker sailing aquatic sleigh ride in previous races have already revised the sail selection.They have stowed their fresh wind sails in the anticipation of being better prepared for what promises to be a searching test of ocean racing skill and endurance.The expected ocean racing conditions will favour the super maxi’s Wild Thing and Lahana to become involved in a 308 nautical mile match race when they become engaged in a duel for line honours.Also record chase is certainly a possibility however either crew will have to reach the finish off Gladstone’s Auckland Creek before 7-40-50 on Easter Saturday to extend the record into a new time zone. host Thu, 05 Apr 2012 01:30:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:61 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/60/Testing-time-for-Townsville-skipper.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=60 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=60&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/60/Testing-time-for-Townsville-skipper.aspx Townsville skipper Leon Thomas has admitted he will be on a new learning curve when he contests the 308 n/ml QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race over the Easter Weekend.Leon Thomas respected as one of Australia’s best small yacht sailors including winning National trailer yacht class championships officially took delivery of the former New South Wales Sydney 38 class ocean racer Yeah Baby on Sunday March 31st.At 11am on Good Friday both skipper and crew will commence a far more demanding learning curve when the re-named Yeah Baby begins what is expected to become a promising new career under the Guilty Pleasures IV battle flag.Learning the ropes and steering with a wheel rather than a tiller and dogs-leg will become a challenging new education for the talented 8 member crew of North Queensland sailors.“Our plan is to sail a safe race to Gladstone before continuing on with the delivery cruise to Townsville”. Leon Thomas said.The Guilty Pleasures IV crew already recognised as a team of talented individuals should experience little difficulty with making sure they will be race ready to contest the Audi Hamilton Island and Magnetic Island race weeks later this year.Meanwhile their new challenge to win respect on the Queensland Ocean racing circuit starts this Friday with a 308 n/ml match race against the almost identical Ray Sweeney skippered Sydney 38 Mondo.Mondo has the valued racing miles from contesting the 2011 Rolex Sydney Hobart Race and will prove to be a good pacemaker for the Guilty Pleasures IV crew.“We are not expecting to create any surprises in terms of results but I’m sure our confidence and understanding of sailing in fast lane will progressively take a step in the right direction”. Leon Thomas said. The expected private Sydney 38 class match race between Guilty Pleasures IV and Mondo will be one of many highlights when the 45 yacht fleet including the race record holder the Grant Wharington skippered Wild Thing set their tactical strategy to win the prestigious 64 year old Courier Mail Cup. host Mon, 02 Apr 2012 23:35:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:60 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/59/Gladstone-Race-Skipper-hopes-to-turn-the-tide.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=59 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=59&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/59/Gladstone-Race-Skipper-hopes-to-turn-the-tide.aspx Jeffrey Paul skipper of Gladstone’s Port Curtis Sailing Club Farr 30 Immigrant has the recent form guide to warrant recognition among the favourites to win the 64th QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone Race over the Easter Weekend.The Immigrant crew who suffer with sharing limited crew quarters on board the baby 9.24 m sloop have shown the only way to limit the suffering is to sail fast.They set a career best course time of 32 hours 21 minutes 19 seconds in 2010 to finish third overall behind the larger yachts Wedgetail and Black Jack and were narrowly beaten by 2 minutes 51 seconds by the 20.3m Black Jack for third place last year.This form of a 3-4 suggests the aggressive Immigrant crew remain rated among the top contenders to contest for the honour of becoming the 64th winner of the prestigious Courier Mail Cup.Jeff Paul has proved to be the class master in this physically demanding coastal passage race and is determined to again dominate the 308n/ml match race over his Brisbane rival Lewis Perrin’s Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron sloop Italian Job.But while the previous race results and boat speed favour Immigrant rival skipper Lewis Perrin has left nothing to chance this year.The underwater surface of Italian Job has been scrubbed squeaky clean and skipper Perrin has nominated a quality crew including the talented Josh Walker which presents a warning that the baby speed sailing Gladstone Farr 30 Immigrant will be hard pressed to win the honour of being the class fastest into her home port.However Jeff Paul who has been known to race his yacht on the fine edge between distinction and disaster personally believes they are up for the challenge.“We have proved our ability to master the tactical and physical demands of ocean racing having sailed consistently in moderate to fresh winds”. He said.Immigrant convincingly answered the challenge last year finishing the boat on boat match race with a faster 7.88 seconds per nautical mile advantage.While Jeff Paul and the Immigrant crew are expecting to race under pressure they remain confident of holding onto the honour of winning the battle between the ‘baby boats’.Similar interest will focus on the match race for the first to finish trophy when race record holder the Grant Wharington skippered Wild Thing enters into a match race against the 2011 line honours champion Lahana (Peter Millard) and the 2009-2010 trophy winner Black Jack (Mark Bradford). host Sun, 01 Apr 2012 23:44:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:59 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/58/Aquatic-Sleigh-Ride.aspx#Comments 0 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/RssComments.aspx?TabID=69&ModuleID=416&ArticleID=58 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/DesktopModules/DnnForge%20-%20NewsArticles/Tracking/Trackback.aspx?ArticleID=58&PortalID=0&TabID=69 http://www.brisbanetogladstone.com.au/MediaSpectatorInfo/RaceNews/tabid/69/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/58/Aquatic-Sleigh-Ride.aspx Ocean racing sailors remain confident that the 308 n/ml QantasLink Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race will turn into another aquatic sleigh ride when the competitive fleet line up for the start on Brisbane’s Bramble Bay at 11am on Good Friday.“As I see it all of the weather indicators suggest this year’s race will be contested in moderate to fresh winds”. Co skipper of Lambourdini /Envy Scooters David Lambourne said.Their race preparations and tactical strategy will remain focused on facing up to another demanding sail in strong winds and the associated coastal seaway conditions which are known to tax both the concentration and steering skill of the nominated helmsperson.“Our recent trip to contest the Australian Farr 40 championships in Sydney was a good guide in terms of boat speed proving the crew are better suited for longer coastal passage races “. David Lambourne.Most of the crew who contested the Gladstone Race last Easter will be onboard including navigator and Melbourne Marine Pilot Barry Cuneo.As expected the Lambourdini/ Envy Scooters crew are keen to protect the honour of be ranked as Queensland’s fastest 12.32m racing yacht.But they will be placed under a serious challenge from the almost identical Bobby’s Girl (John Lehman) and the former Audi Australian ocean racing champion Alegria lll is now raced by Yeppoon skipper Tim McCall under the Acadia ‘battle flag’.However based on the 2011 results the Lambourdini /Envy Scooters crew who will target the slightly larger 13.86 m Stewart Lewis skippered Ocean Affinity as their pacemaker are keen to improve on the 3 minute 9 second margin that favoured Ocean Affinity last year to retain their ranking as Queensland’s fastest 12.32 m yacht. host Sun, 01 Apr 2012 23:40:00 GMT f1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:58