Multihull Rendezvous and Dent To Dunk Race 2007

by Jo Djubal on 29 Dec 2006 Ever growing fleets are once again set to enjoy friendly competition and camaraderie in the paradise of North Queensland waters.

Two of Australias most enjoyable yacht races are being penned in sailors calendars for 2007. The Whitsunday Multihull Rendezvous and The Dent To Dunk Race have become iconic sailing events in Northern waters and continue to lure competitors from all over Australia. A successful combination of exceptional organisation, laid back atmosphere and stunning scenery has seen the two races grow in popularity from their inception.

The original Dent to Dunk race was battled out in 1909 with the gaff rigged cutter, Pilot, winning the prestigious trophy of a silver coffee pot. However in 2005, Abel Point Yacht Club and The Cruising Yacht Club of Hamilton Island joined forces to resurrect the event and create a fun race promoting both the joy of sailing and an appreciation of the spectacular cruising grounds between the Whitsundays and Cardwell. 'We want to foster fun and good fellowship' says APYC Commodore Frank Nachtigal. 'And also to promote our wonderful cruising grounds. Cruisers who are new to the area are able to become familiar with the islands and anchorages in company with locals who know the area well.

Hopefully they will be introduced to the beauty of the area and return.'
The event offers two options for competitors who can choose to enjoy a fun rally or more competitive and shorter race which sets sail a week later. The Dent to Dunk Rally begins on the 19th of May when vessels from monohull to multihull and even motorboats head out from Dent Island on a 240nm cruise over eleven fun filled days. Nightly stopovers at idyllic anchorages, lazy laydays and a compulsory rule to enjoy yourself ensures a party atmosphere which has become synonymous with the event. 'The Dent to Dunk Rally is a must for any yachtie who likes to have fun.' says 2006 competitor Marlene Leith.

'What other rally covers 240 miles of one of the most beautiful sailing areas in Australia, has 'Social Instructions' for the event and gives out prizes for having a good time?'

The Dent to Dunk Race begins on the 19th of May with a finish date of the 29th. Although more serious in nature, the racing fleet compete with a friendly rivalry and the shared sense of fun that has become the Dent To Dunk catchcry.Valued major sponsorship from Club Marine and an array of local businesses makes this fantastic event possible and also ensure some great prizes. With a total of forty four boats involved in 2006, a sixty boat limit has been decided upon for 2007.' As we are only a small club we wanted to keep the fleet size manageable to ensure the best experience for all.' explains Vice Commodore John Graham. Entrants are urged to be quick. 'We received four entries for 2007 before the presentations were even awarded for 2006!' says Frank Nachtigal. All crew fee monies are donated to the VMR and Coastguards assisting in running the event.

The Multihull Rendezvous is another popular event now proudly hosted by the APYC with the assistance of the Whitsunday Sailing Club. The race began in 1994 and has since become one of the nations largest multihull regattas. After enjoying venues from Laguna Quays to Bowen, the Rendezvous moved its base to the Whitsundays a few years ago and is set to stay. 'The Whitsundays offer perfect sailing conditions with a variety of challenges along with some of the worlds most beautiful scenery.' says APYC Rear Commodore Rick Pyne. 'The area could be said to be 'Multihull Country' and most entrants spend time before and after the regatta exploring the many delights offered in the area.' The introduction of OMR in 2006 has seen the event step into the arena of serious multihull racing while still retaining the relaxed cruising style of its origins. 'Its great to be able to enjoy the usual Rendezvous Revelry while also racing against similarly paced multis with OMR ratings.' says Peter Millar, owner of local go fast Schionning cat, Spudgun.

While not 'officially' confirmed, valued sponsorship by Hogs Breath Cafe will continue in 2007 along with the support of many dedicated local and interstate marine focused companies. Accomodation for visiting trailer tri entrants is also planned by way of billeting amongst the 'Whitsundi Multi' community. The 2007 Whitsunday Multihull Rendezvous is not to be missed and kicks off on the 25th August with final presentations on the 31st.

The Dent To Dunk and Whitsunday Multihull Rendezvous are unique and exciting sailing events where the thrill of racing combines with the age old philosophy of fun and friendly cruising.

For More Information on the events visit - www.apyc.yachting.org.au - Or call APYC Commodore, Frank Nachtigal on 07 49481493.