Iconic coastal race set to stream live

Team Vodafone Sailing - which has set and re-set the Coastal Classic race record three times in a row- is competing in the Devonport to Russell race again later this month. PICTURE/STEPHEN WESTERN

The 2015 PIC Coastal Classic race from Devonport in Auckland to Russell in the Bay of Islands on October 23 will be streamed live online at www.coastalclassic.co.nz

For the first time in the history of New Zealand's most iconic yachting event, followers of the 119-nautical mile race will be able to watch the action as it happens, on their computer, tablet or smartphone.

Safety will be paramount at this year's PIC Coastal Classic, with more than 150 boats expected to participate.

The race is no cream trip and its organisers, the New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club (NZMYC), aim to ensure every boat and competitor is up to the challenge.

"First and foremost in any race, we want to ensure the safety of all competitors. That's our number one concern in the PIC Coastal Classic - making sure everyone gets to the finish line in one piece," said race director Matthew Flynn.

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