Gold Coast welcomes international competitors arriving for the Hansa Asia Pacific Championships 2024

Hansa Asia Pacific Championships 2024 © Southport Yacht Club

The International Hansa Class Association will officially open the 2024 Asia Pacific Championships this Sunday, hosted by Southport Yacht Club on the Gold Coast, Australia.

Attracting over 80 competitors from 7 countries, the regatta format will include multiple para sailing races each day on the Broadwater from 21st - 25th Oct, and determines the Asia Pacific Champion, Australian Champion and Queensland Champion for 2024 in each Class.

Based in the Netherlands, World President of the International Hansa Class Association (IHCA) Vera Voorbach said "Thank you for joining us as we set sail into the thrilling world of inclusive sailing! On behalf of the International Hansa Class Association, I thank the team from Southport Yacht Club and welcome entrants to these picturesque waters for the official launch of the Hansa Class Asia Pacific Championships.

"I welcome you all to be a part of our journey as our sailors showcase our passion, skill, and determination on the waves. With our Hansa boats ready and spirits high, we invite you all to witness the excitement firsthand.

Last held in Hiroshima in 2022, this 2024 Championships has attracted competitors from participants from Chile, Singapore, Hong Kong, China, Australia, New Zealand and the USA.

Tasmanian legend Chris Symons, who is a multiple World Champion in the 303, will be attempting to keep his National Championship status. Liberty Class legend Bob Shahinger from Adelaide will be defending his many titles against a fast fleet. The Gold Coast is well represented with local sailor and former Australian Champion Ross Manning from Paradise Point will also be determined to regain his crown. Fireworks can be expected in the Skud 18 Class, which featured at the Rio Paralympics where it was won by twice Australian Gold Medalist Dan Fitzgibbon, with Bonogin resident Neil Rowsthorn currently the pacesetter and is in fine form this year.

Chris Mitchell, designer of these international class of boats will be in attendance.

Southport Yacht Club Commodore Glenn Burrell said he was delighted to host this important international event that aligns with Southport Yacht Club's objective of supporting inclusive sailing for all ages and abilities.

"Although we have only just recently won the title of Club of the Year QLD by Australian Sailing, our inclusive facilities at Hollywell have long been utilised and valued by Southport Yacht Club members and Sailability Gold Coast, and we look forward to sharing our hospitality with the international Hansa Class community for all to enjoy the excitement of racing out on the water." Said Commodore Glenn Burrell.

Uniquely, Hollywell features a private beach adjoining a secure and spacious grassed area to rig up boats and wheel straight into the water. The club has temporarily expanded its marina facilities for the event to ensure inclusive access for all participants, thanks to the generous sponsorship and services supplied by Marine Structures, a Gold Coast based marina and pontoon manufacturer.

Director of Marine Structures John Hogan said "Marine Structures are delighted to support this significant event which showcases the importance of inclusive marine access for all ages and abilities. Our floating pontoon solutions provide easier and level access onto and off boats, at all tidal ranges."

The Asia Pacific 2024 Hansa Class Championships will take place from October 20th to 25th 2024 at Southport Yacht Club's Hollywell Sailing Squadron venue on the Broadwater and will incorporate the Australian and Queensland Hansa Class Championships. Invited classes are the Hansa 2.3, 303 singles and doubles, Liberty and SKUD18.

Vera Voorbach from IHCA said "Good luck to all sailors, and thank you to the Southport Yacht Club officials, members and volunteers for what I'm sure will be a fantastic event. Together, let's embark on this exhilarating voyage towards excellence and inclusivity in sailing!"

The event's opening ceremony commences at 4pm this Sunday 20th October, with racing each day to Friday 25th October 2024.