Tidelines: Volvo changes

Plans for a revamped Volvo Ocean Race in 2005-6 will be revealed on February 10. The new concepts were decided after discussions with ocean racing competitors, designers, past and potential entrants and commercial partners. VOR chief executive Glenn Bourke says the new race yacht design, together with the revised racetrack and format will be confirmed at an Auckland press conference.

Hall of Fame

Sailor and commentator Gary Jobson will be the keynote speaker at the 10th annual induction ceremony of the America's Cup Hall of Fame at the Auckland War Memorial Museum on February 17. The three new nominees are Malin Burnham, the San Diego yachtsman Dennis Conner credits with kick-starting his career; Sir Michael Fay, who first guided New Zealand into the America's Cup arena; and famed photographer, the late Stanley Rosenfeld. Proceeds of the $400-a-head black-tie dinner will go to the museum, the Hall of Fame and Yachting New Zealand. To book call (09) 309 9140.

Safe Summer

The Safe Summer campaign beach teams are at North Shore beaches this weekend. Action today is at Long Bay and Mairangi Bay tomorrow. Mai FM and WaterSafe Auckland will have competitions and giveaways between 10am and midday. Activity will switch to the Glenfield Pool if the weather is bad.

Water-watch

As the last phase of the Louis Vuitton America's Cup challenger series gets under way on the Hauraki Gulf this weekend, most interest will be on big boat sailing. Race watchers are urged to observe the race exclusion zone and listen on Channel 18 for spectator fleet instructions. Other activity:

Saturday: Noelex 22 championships conclude (RYC); finals of the national Starling regatta at Murrays Bay (MBSC).

* Clubs and organisations planning events on or in the Waitemata or Manukau harbours should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on (09) 366 2070.