As part of that commitment to safety, the organisers held a free Boat Preparation and Safety Seminar hosted by the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron in Westhaven last week. Thirty five people attended to hear speakers discuss several safety-related subjects.
Multihull designer and Yachting New Zealand safety inspector Tim Clissold advised competitors to check their safety gear before the race, and know how to use it. In particular, he spoke of the dangers of using flares incorrectly.
Alexis Reeves, Auckland manager of yacht rigging company Rig Pro, spoke about the importance of checking the mast and rigging before the race.
"It's all very well having flash sails," said Reeves, "but your rig is what they hang off."
Sailmaker Andy Pilcher recommended similar pre-departure checks to sails, to ensure they are in good condition before the race. He also reminded competitors that storm sails need to be stored with sheets (ropes) already attached, to comply with the YNZ Category 3 safety requirements which are a condition of entry to the race.
Simon Hull, owner of Team Vodafone Sailing - the catamaran which holds the current race record - gave some valuable advice to competitors, and to multihull sailors in particular.
"Consider a crisis plan before the race - it's far easier to plan this before a major incident happens", said Hull.
"Allocate tasks ahead of time," he continued, "like who gets the liferaft, who calls for assistance, and so on."
In closing, the NZMYC would like to remind competitors that the PIC Coastal Classic is a great event, that can be undertaken by any boat that meets the required safety standards.
Information about the required safety standards for taking part in the PIC Coastal Classic can be found in the Notice of Race at www.coastalclassic.co.nz
