Nicorette completes Sydney-Hobart qualifier

by Susie Rutherford on 15 Dec 2004 Last weekend the brand new 90-foot super maxi Nicorette successfully complete her 24-hour qualifying sea trials, a mandatory requirement set by the CYCA for competing in the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

In near perfect conditions and 7-12 knot winds, the yacht and her 14-strong crew set off at 0900 hours, using the Sydney Hobart start line to mark the start of the 24-hour passage.

Armed with a full set of racing sails, the crew spent the first 10 hours looking at new sails and tuning the yacht, before settling into some serious sailing as the sun set.

Skipper, Ludde Ingvall said, ‘it was fantastic to be finally putting in long sailing hours on the new Nicorette and I’m delighted that we have completed the next stage of our preparations by completing the 24 hour qualifier. She handles beautifully and we are all excited about the challenge the race offers.’

In celebration of this year’s 60th Anniversary of the race, Nicorette has entered one of the world’s most advanced yachts to compete for the greatest prize in ocean racing – the Rolex Sydney to Hobart.

This is the sixth time a yacht sponsored by Nicorette has competed, but the first time in a stunning, new, purpose built 90-foot super maxi.

Pfizer Australia (Nicorette’s sponsor) is the nation’s leading research-based health care company. It discovers, develops, manufactures and markets innovative medical treatments for both humans and animals.

For more information visit www.pfizer.com.au.