Entries in the Rating Passage division at the Jeanneau and 74 Islands Airlie Beach Race Week (ABRW) are on the rise, signalling stronger competition for the regatta, which will take place from 6-13 August. Currently, 14 owners are confirmed for this division at Whitsunday Sailing Club’s (WSC) annual event.
Among the newcomers is Bruce McCraken, participating for the first time. He expressed enthusiasm, stating, “I asked crew if they would like to go. I got no argument, so we’re in. We decided just before Christmas to come up and there’ll be 20-25 of us, including family.” McCraken has a solid track record, having previously won multiple competitions with his 18-year-old Beneteau First 45, Ikon.
Recent accolades include winning Division 2 at the 2022 Australian Yachting Championships and Division 1 of the 2024 Range Series. His crew has been together for 18 years, focusing on improving their performance, especially in lighter wind conditions.
McCraken faces competition from Andrew Lloyd and Mary Ann Harvey, who will be racing their Sydney 38, Clockwork. They have prepared extensively, having travelled thousands of miles for major events across Australia.
The fleet also features three TP52s, known for their offshore racing capabilities, including Frantic owned by Michael Martin, Ocean Crusaders’ J-Bird, and V5 from New Zealand.
The regatta promises six days of intense racing amidst stunning scenery, complemented by seven nights of entertainment organised by WSC, including food stalls and live music starting on the opening night.
From 7 to 10 August, attendees can enjoy coffee at the Ronstan Coffee Cart and participate in family-friendly Friday Night Movies in the Park.
A Lay Day will feature a clean-up event led by the Thomsons from Ocean Crusaders, who aim to maintain the local environment by collecting rubbish from the shoreline. Last year, they collected over 380 kilos of waste.
Participants can also join the 74 Islands Distillery Long Lunch at Elementa Whitsundays, an exclusive event with stunning views and entertainment.
The final night will include the Presentation Dinner, followed by fireworks and music from Viva Band.
No matter the type of boat, all are welcome at the Jeanneau and 74 Islands Airlie Beach Race Week. For more information and to view the Notice of Race, visit www.abrw.com.au.
More details on entertainment will be released soon.
Di Pearson/ABRW media
Follow the action on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AirlieBeachRaceWeek
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