Hot Wired challenges all-comers at the Clash of the Cove

by Marsden Cove Media on 17 Mar 2011
Rob Bassett, well-known skipper of the highly successful Bakewell-White designed 52fter Wired, is throwing down the gauntlet to those who are ready for something different in sailboat racing.

Rob and his crew are heading to Marsden Cove to take part in a unique regatta on March 26 & 27, which he hopes will set a trend. Simply put, Rob says he is looking to encourage a much higher level of fun and entertainment into the sport, which he feels is sadly missing. Rob urges other skippers to line up beside him and give it a try. He believes the Marsden Cove venue with its un-crowded surroundings and spectator friendly layout will provide greater social and entertainment opportunity.

'Clash at the Cove' was conceived when Rob and a group of his sailing buddies got together with Hopper Developments Ltd, the owners of Marsden Cove. They were attracted by Hopper’s reputation for staging highly acclaimed public events such as the Whitianga Festival of Speed and the Northland Seafood Festival.

As Rob says 'Yachting needs the kind of fun these Hopper people seem to create. With the greatest of respect, some clubs and organizations lack the imagination to turn on the 'X' factor which is missing from our sport. I had observed what Hoppers had done with their events and thought that’s exactly what is missing from sailing'

The fact that Marsden Cove will be hosting a boat show and NZOPA series powerboat regatta along with evening entertainment means all the ingredients are in place for an unforgettable marine event. One other important aspect about Marsden Cove is the fact that friends and family can arrive by road and share in the relaxed social side of this regatta. A number of launches are planning to come up to provide spectator viewing and overnight accommodation.

As a gesture to yachties who support the regatta, Marsden Cove is providing FREE BERTHAGE for at least until Easter, which is four weeks away. This will take the pressure off returning home on Sunday and may allow the opportunity to explore the Northland coast over Easter.

Display boats participating in the Boat Show will also enjoy free use of their marina berth after the weekend until Easter, so if you were thinking of selling your boat why not come up. It would be a great opportunity to display, and join in the fun at minimal cost.

A feeder race organized by Gulf Harbour Yacht Club will start at 10:00am on Friday March 25. Registration forms are available from Gulf Harbour Yacht Club web site www.ghyc.co.nz

Clash at the Cove regatta race enquiries and registration form requests should be emailed to paul@hoppers.co.nz

Or, www.sail-world.com/NZ/company_n.cfm?compid=1274!Click_here to download entry forms, then click the entry forms you require