Marsden Cove provides free berthage for race to Whangarei

Marsden Cove Marina offers free berthage to entrants in the Auckland to Whangarei race SW

Marsden Cove location © SW

Richmond and Onerahi Yacht Clubs have revamped the annual yacht race formerly known as the Lombardini Marine Route 66, and advise the race from Auckland to Whangarei will commence at 3pm on Friday 5 March 2010.

This will be the 5th running of this increasingly popular race and the original naming rights sponsor Lombardini Marine is joined by Marsden Cove Marina with the event being re-named the Marsden Cove - Lombardini Marine, ROUTE 66 Yacht Race.

The finish line at the Whangarei Heads is only a mile or so from Marsden Cove Marina where all entrants will be provided with free marina berths. With the assembly of all contestants in one marina and generous competition and spot prizes, the organisers expect post race socialising to be a key aspect of the event.

Yachting New Zealand have agreed the race can be run under category 4 safety regulations duly enhanced with the requirement to carry a suitable dinghy or life raft, and a 406 Epirb thus making it an economical proposition for all entrants.

Marsden Cove Marina diagram © SW

Paul Powney of TransDiesel Ltd (NZ distributor for Lombardini Marine Diesels) says TransDiesel is keen to sponsor what is seen as a Coastal race that fits literally between the Coastal Classic and the Auckland / Tauranga race but involves only half the distance and logistics. Once the racing is over, competitors can relax and socialise at Marsden Cove Marina then spend time cruising back to Auckland, maybe stopping at Kawau on the way through.

'This race would suit newcomers or smaller boats wishing to try a Coastal Race,' says Paul. 'Family can drive to the marina to share in the socialising or collect crew who may need to return to Auckland. Being only 66 nautical miles, most boats in a favourable breeze should finish the race in less than 12 hours making it a nice manageable challenge.'

If inclement weather should preclude contestants from returning to Auckland immediately following the event, Marsden Cove Marina will provide free marina berths for a short time as required.