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IT'S ALL SYSTEMS GO...
Yes, it is all systems go for the 2010 Mauritius to Durban race. This despite some negative comments on facebook and the like that the race will not happen.
Late last year I met with the Flag Officers of both the PYC and RNYC and explained that at that point I had not been able to secure a sponsor, but that the race should go on. They agreed wholeheartedly, have each committed working capital to the race, and are as adamant as I am to make the race a success.
Plus, I was in Mauritius in late December and spent an afternoon at the yacht club where the people I spoke to were very positive about the race and very keen to see it happen and to host the fleet. So, let's not dwell on the negatives, and let's get down to the real business of a yacht race.
Interest in the race is massive. I am continually amazed at how many people know about it and are keen to compete either as crew or in their own boats. That's positive and the first and most important ingredient in the recipe for a great race.
Sponsorship
Despite no overall sponsor yet the race will go ahead. There are people prepared to assist financially on a low-key basis, so whatever happens we will have a race. Without an overall event sponsor we may not have all the fanfare and ‘nice to have's' - but we will race - and that after all is what we are doing it for. My request to anyone who may have any sponsorship leads is to please contact me personally so that I may follow the lead through.
Visit to Mauritius
I was in Mauritius briefly at the end of December and met with Craig McKenzie who earlier in December launched his new Pacer 376 which he will be racing to Durban in September. I had a good meeting with GBYC. It is still such an amazing venue. The sun was shining, the water was a beautifully clear turquoise and there was wind. The view across the bay from GBYC was as good as ever. Those who have been to GBYC will know exactly what I am talking about, while those who have not will have to get to Mauritius in September to witness it for themselves.
My kids have heard me rave on about GBYC - and they were blown away by the venue and quickly realised that the ‘old fart' was not smoking his socks again! In fact, I reckon that GBYC is one of the best yacht clubs in the Southern Africa and Indian Ocean islands area!
Notice of Race
This is ready and will be on the RNYC website within a few days. Go to www.rnyc.org.za and follow the link to the Mauritius Race. This is until the dedicated race website comes on stream.
Safety Requirements
These are ready and will be on the RNYC website within a few days. Go to www.rnyc.org.za and follow the link to the Mauritius Race. This is also until the dedicated race website comes on stream.
Entry Form
This is ready and will be on the RNYC website within a few days. Go to www.rnyc.org.za and follow the link to the Mauritius Race. And this is until the dedicated race website comes on stream.
Expressions of Interest
The following have expressed an interested in competing:
Alex Schon
Alexandre Monat Addis in Cape Archambault 35
Brain Kennedy
Chris Frost Prodigy III SVD 54
Craig McKenzie (Mauritius) Pacer 376
Dale Kushner
Dave Elcock
David Taylor Alacrity Taylor 36
Dieter Mielke
Don Voysey Zeus Fast 42
Gavin van der Merwe Kimaya Fast 42
Greg Simmons
Hylton Hale Puma Unleashed Pacer 42
JJ Provoyeur
John Banfield R&G 40
Keith Mattison
Leo Kroone Phezulu Fast 42
Nicholas Mace Gumption Simonis 42 modified
Nigel Milln Skitzo Fast 42
Phil Gutsche Warrior Simonis 60
Ryan Lotter Doughty Simonis 65
Solly Heyns Leyna Elan 435
Vernon Goss Bellisima Hanse 402
If you are interested, please let me have your details so that I can add you to the list. And, please pass this on to anyone you feel may be interested in being kept up-to-date.
Satellite Tracking
There is a strong possibility we will secure a Satellite Tracking sponsor in the very near future. This means that every boat will be fitted with a tracking device enabling its progress to be tracked throughout the race. Not only is this a strong safety feature, but it will keep the public and media continuously in the loop as to the progress of the fleet.
Travel & Accommodation
I hope to bring a really good travel and accommodation package to competitors soon, so please keep in touch.
General
Behind the scenes a lot of work is being done. If anyone has any specific queries on any matter regarding the race, please contact me personally.
Regards
Richard Crockett.
Tel. 031 709-6087
Cell.083 265-3885
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