Friday 29 January 2010

Solo Trans-Tasman Race: New Plymouth to Mooloolaba

by Zoe Hawkins

The 11th Solo Trans-Tasman race starts in less than three months and has a strong fleet of around 20 starters, including Trish Lewis, who intends to be the first New Zealand female to sail the Tasman solo in more than 35 years, aboard her 25 foot Reactor, Wishbone.

When Trish Lewis entered her Reactor, Wishbone, in a single handed race across the Tasman the first challenge was getting both boat and skipper fully prepared.

To help ensure Trish could achieve her admirable goal, Geoff and Bronwyn Cooper decided they would sell their Reactor, Antares II, and donate the proceeds to support Trish in her challenge. Geoff has successfully raced Antares for the last 12 years, getting the gun on many occasions in Reactor Class racing. He has also done up six other Reactors over the years, including Wishbone which he sold to Trish in 1999.

When Tony Smith and Graham Murray from Westhaven Marine Brokers heard of Geoff and Bronwyn’s decision they pitched in and offered to market Antares at no cost. (Anyone interested in Antares should contact Graham or Tony on 09 376 0102.)

Trish has also received support from other yachties who have been keen to sign up as Cyber Crew – an opportunity to sail across the Tasman with Trish without getting wet or seasick!

Meanwhile, Bruce McKay (Wasabi), Steve Newcombe (Zen) and David Rose (Hot Property) have withdrawn from the Race, but 2007 solo monohull winner, Lillie, is a late entry this year with Island Girl and Rhys Boulton from Christchurch has entered his Ganley Chevron, Spellbound.

Solo Trans-Tasman

No comments: