Entries closing for Pittwater Coffs

by Event Media on 1 Dec 2005 RPAYC Commodore Angus Gordon reminds skippers that Entries close on Friday December 2nd for the 25th Pittwater to Coffs Race. Entry forms can be downloaded at www.rpayc.com.au now

Here are the Commodore’s comments courtesy of the Alfred’s Magazine.

‘Welcome to the Royal Prince Alfred’s 25th Annual Pittwater to Coffs Harbour Race. Up until 25 years ago we raced up to Solitary Island and back to Pittwater; seemed like a good idea at the time! Then a very observant member of our Club, I believe it was Max Tunbridge, spotted the entrance to an 'undiscovered naturally man made' harbour and though it might be a good id ea to stop there for a bit, rather than bash home again. Turned out that this was a really great idea so the Pittwater to Coffs race was born.

At around 225 nautical miles downwind, or somewhat more upwind, the race is magic. Starting on the 2nd January you can get over your Christmas and New Year’s excesses, pack your family up and send them to Coffs for a holiday, jump on board with your mates, male and female, and sit back to enjoy a stress free ocean voyage before arriving at a magnificent destination for a great party amongst friendly and welcoming locals. Well, maybe just a tiny bit of stress as you strive to beat those who you have a 'jug' bet with.

Depending on the strength of the East Coast current and the wind direction you may find yourself way offshore, full kite set and yahooing as you surf down the rolling kings or alternatively counting the mussels on the rocks and dodging surfboards as you enjoy a close inspection of the NSW coast. Navigation is often challenging and big gains are usually made at night. What ever happens, the water gets warmer as you head north and the race is over before serious physical discomfort sets in.

The 'Coffs' is a challenging race for those looking for keen competition, and a must for those who want to gain offshore experience. Further more it’s a great way to get to a fantastic range of excellent restaurants. When the Coffs race used to start on the 27th December I, like many, found it 'somewhat difficult' to race to Hobart and then head for Coffs. In 2000 this all changed with the Coffs being moved to the 2nd January. Now, if you are really keen, you can enjoy both great races. If you are not that keen then relax at Christmas, turn left and come to Coffs.

As with past years the Coffs race is part of the overall Coffs Series which includes four races off Pittwater on the 29th and 30th December and a further two races at Coffs on the 5th and 6th January. The race on the 5th January is the ever-popular Islands Race sponsored by the Pelican and Nautilus beach resorts. The Coffs community always puts on a great welcome and has created the ‘Festival of Sail’ to commemorate the event.

Royal Prince Alfred and the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club are delighted to celebrate the 25th year of this iconic event and hope you will join us in our celebrations. I look forward to racing you to Coffs and enjoying your company throughout the series.

Angus Gordon