Yachting: Auckland to host round-Antarctica yacht race in 2005

By JULIE ASH

A proposed race around Antarctica could bring life back to Auckland's Viaduct Harbour.

The 45-day, 14,600-nautical-mile event, brainchild of Australian building consultant Bob Williams, could bring $150 million of economic benefits to New Zealand.

The Antarctica Cup was originally planned to start and finish in Fremantle. However, a lack of drive saw it moved to Auckland.

"We had a great event looking for a home, while at the same time there was a great home looking for an event," Williams said.

Yesterday, the final race format was announced at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron.

The race will pit national teams against each other on identical maxi yachts designed by Auckland's Brett Bakewell-White and built in New Zealand.

"It is estimated that, based on a fleet of 10, the inaugural race will deliver around $150 million in economic benefits to New Zealand, including the creation of up to 1000 jobs during the boatbuilding process and the 100-day race programme," Williams said.

The race will take place in February 2005, starting and finishing in Auckland, but teams are required to spend 45 days in the city taking part in a series of offshore and short-course events.

The entry fee is just over $9 million, which includes the cost of the yacht.

The total prizemoney is $13 million, making it the richest purse in international yacht racing.

Teams will race non-stop around Antarctica, but will pass through 12 gates where they will accumulate points and prize money.

"This is not a race for the faint-hearted, it is designed for hardened and experienced sailors," Williams said.

There has been plenty of interest in the race, which is limited to 10 entries, and Williams hopes to have six confirmed by December so boat-building can begin.

He expects a New Zealand entry.