Yachting to meet power boating in a dramatic new Regatta concept

by .. on 23 May 2010
The Auckland to Denerau Fiji Yacht race was an opportune time to reveal plans for another major regatta to be held in March 2011. The dates to be confirmed are most likely March 18,19,20

As the Fiji race fleet departed Auckland, the mainsail of race favourite 'Wired' was seen sporting a large CLASH OF THE COVE graphic in its main sail. Before the crew set sail from Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, all donned CLASH OF THE COVE shirts with the graphic emblazoned across their backs.

Marsden Cove near the entrance to Whangarei Harbour will be the venue for a totally new boat racing extravaganza. The event named CLASH AT THE COVE will include yacht races and offshore power boat races all rolled into one big marine festival.

Marsden Cove marina has been developing the mixed code regatta concept in conjunction with top yachtsmen who have for a long time harboured the desire for a different style of fleet racing which allows for significant onshore support and festivities. Marsden Cove which is owned by Hopper Developments is an ideal venue because of its unrivalled proximity to excellent blue water sailing and space ashore for staging a major festival.

Hoppers have a lot of experience with staging and promoting events such as the Northland Boat Show, Northland Seafood Festival, Offshore power boat races and the Whitianga Festival of Speed. CLASH AT THE COVE will combine a number of these elements to ensure a first class spectator and visitor experience.

Hopper’s Marketing Manager, Paul Shanahan commented that this will be quite a departure from typical regattas for a number of reasons. Yachts and offshore power boats will work side by side in a mixed code regatta. Both will share facilities and socialize in a huge marquee. There may even be some mixed code novelty races where offshore power boat skippers become yacht crew and vice versa.

The three day event will include the Northland Boat Show and a major wine and food festival with live music acts to set the scene.

This will require the Northland Boat Show shifting its traditional November 2010 date back in to March 2011.
As with all Hopper events, the entertainment component will be very high. It will have all the usual Hopper ingredients of action, fun, and a number of surprises,

All classes of sail craft and power boats are being invited to participate.

As Shanahan says, 'it is all about putting some serious fun into yachting and power boat racing.'

For further details email paul@hoppers.co.nz