Quest shows potential for Northern series

by Rob Kothe on 30 Jul 2007 In the 22nd Audi Sydney to Gold Coast race, Bob Steel’s new TP 52 Quest has had an impressive first outing. She is the provisional winner of IRC Division B from Geoff Ross’ Yendys and Graeme Woods Nelson Marek 52 Wot Yot.

Quest skipper Jamie MacPhail was grinning this morning. 'The 24 hour run to Yamba was the fastest we’ve ever had. Top speed was 30 knots; it’s an exciting boat to race. We will be in good shape for Meridien Marinas Airlie Beach Race Week.'

Owner Bob Steel was all smiles knowing he will have a very competitive boat for the two upcoming Whitsunday regattas. ‘I’m delighted, a new crew and a new boat, we will improve considerably from here in. The boat has enormous potential, we have lots to learn but it’s a lot of fun.'

Julian Plante, from North Sails commented, ‘We had a hectic first night, a lot more wind than forecast. Saw 35 plus knots a few times, topped at 39 knots and we were barrelling along in the mid twenties at times with a confused seaway and plenty of water over the deck. We are still learning the hard way the tricks to sailing the boat well.

'Broke the foot on the 4A spinnaker on the first night and we fixed it to get it back up. The boys on the loft floor will have laugh for sure when they see our handy work.'

The IRC class at Meridien Marinas Airlie Beach Race Week is shaping up as a particularly tough regatta for Quest and the rest of the grand prix fleet, with Ray Robert's Quantum Racing, Rob Bassett's Bakewell-White 52 Wired, Karl Kwok's Reichel-Pugh Beau Geste and Alan Brierty's Limit all potential winners.

The 18th annual Meridien Marinas Airlie Beach Race Week runs from the 9th to 16th August 2007.