Sir Jack launches his new campaign

by Black Jack Yachting on 14 Jul 2008
Rivergate Marina on the Brisbane River was where the Reichel Pugh 66 Black Jack was launched on Saturday, 12th July. The glorious Queensland weather and construction of the new Gateway Bridge was a spectacular backdrop for the blessing and launch.

The nickname of three time Formula One world champion Sir Jack Brabham, Black Jack was officially named after the Australian hero in honour of his sporting achievements.

'My first sailing experience was onboard a catamaran. It’s wasn’t the best day on the water, so I can’t wait to get onboard this one, just once,' said Sir Jack in his speech to the media at the launch this morning. 'I think this boat might go a little faster than that catamaran though,' he laughed.

Reverend David Johnstone blessed Back Jack to safe sailing and good strength just prior to Sir Jack cracking the champagne on the bow sprit whilst wrapped in a checked flag representing Sir Jacks Formula One racing history.

'I don’t think I will get on board much and I’m happy to watch her progress from shore,' said Sir Jack just prior to being presented with a scaled half model of the yacht. 'Receiving this model is a wonderful gesture, and now I can imagine her at sea taking on the elements from the safety of my home!'

Purchased by Brisbane businessman Peter Harburg two months ago from USA, Black Jack will compete in her first race in just 14 days when she hits the start line for the Audi Sydney Gold Coast Race hosted by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia. Racking up against sister ship Wild Oats X is sure to create some interest amongst the yachting fraternity. From there Black Jack will race for her home club Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in the 2nd Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race.
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'We are looking forward to many fine moments aboard Black Jack as we race along the east coast of Australia,' said Harburg.

Most of the Black Jack crew were on hand this morning at the launch including skipper Mark Bradford who is honoured to take the helm of the new canting keeled racing yacht. 'The launch of Black Jack is an important moment in Queensland yacht racing history and I know the crew are eager to hit the water and just go racing,' said Bradford. 'We head to Sydney next Friday and the delivery from Brisbane will be a good chance to prepare the crew before racing. We have a lot to learn about this new machine so are keen to just get amongst it,' continued Bradford.

With the spotlight now focused on the actual racing the crew are prepared for anything.

'We are going up against some of the best sailors in world, so it’s important that we focus on the job at hand and get Black Jack over the line,' said skipper Bradford. 'We made a promise to Sir Jack to perform in honour of his nickname. Now it’s time to give it a shot.'