16th Annual Seawind Pittwater Regatta - A huge success

by Brent Vaughan on 6 Dec 2014 The 16th Annual Seawind Pittwater Regatta, hosted by Multihull Central on the 28th and 29th of November 2014, was a huge success once again, with a fleet of Seawind catamarans parading down Pittwater just north of Sydney harbour in perfect conditions. Blue skies and beautiful summer seabreezes greeted the fleet moored alongside the RMYC Newport as the weekend unfolded into another memorable event.

The 2014 Seawind Regatta attracted boats from around the country, as far north as Airlie Beach and as far south as Tasmania, all coming together for a weekend of social racing and partying.

The Friday night cocktail party sponsored by Finlease Australia, welcomed the new Seawind 1160 LITE to the regatta for the first time with the boat open for viewing courtesy of owner Mark Ridsdale and partner Viera. Dozens of enthusiastic owners flocked to see the new boat 'Reality II' and it was apparent the new styling and affordable package impressed all.

The LITE also impressed on the race course, taking second place across the line in both races on Saturday and winning her division on handicap. Keith and Barb White from Seawind 1250 'Reflection' won the Mixed Division, with Brent and Desirée Isaacson of Seawind 1000 'Flyer II' winning the Seawind 1000 division and went on to take out the overall series championship.

Between races the fleet rafted up at Towler’s Bay for a giant communal BBQ on the back decks with cold drinks all round, before heading out for the second race around Lion Island and back. Following the 10 knot north easterly in the morning race, the winds had built to an exhilarating 20 knot breeze with a close finish directly in front of the yacht club.

After racing, the club put on a beautiful meal in their dining room, with 180 degree water views overlooking the fleet and Pittwater. With awards and presentation out of the way, the crew partied the night away with a five piece live band and 60s Rock and Roll theme, with the crew from Seawind 1200 'Mango' taking out best dressed prize with a $500 insurance voucher from Nautilus Marine. The crew from Seawind 1160 'St Arnou' won the Long Haul Traveller prize for sailing up from Tasmania for the event. Innovation Marine provided a new Mantus Anchor as a prize.

The fleet are now looking forward to the next event, the Jervis Bay Seawind Cup on the 17th of January and are expecting a big fleet.