Sponsorship helps Christmas Regatta set sail

Lake Wakatipu will once again host competitive sailing these summer holidays thanks to the support of one of Queenstown’s leading construction companies.

Rilean Construction has stepped up to the plate to sponsor the Wakatipu Yacht Club Christmas Regatta, an event that has not been held for 15 years. The two-day regatta is expected to attract dozens of different craft and keen sailors to Queenstown from all over the South Island for some exciting racing.

Rilean Construction director Stephen McLean said his team included a number of keen local yachties, which had prompted the company’s support.

“Project manager Hamish Jackson and Gavin Shaw, a senior carpenter, love to get out on the water and we’ll be cheering them on from the shore,” he said.

“The lake is such a big part of life in Queenstown, especially in summer, and we’re delighted to help put the Christmas Regatta back on the events calendar,” he said.

Wakatipu Yacht Club Vice Commodore Andrew Husheer said the club thought the time was right to bring the regatta back to life.

“There’s nothing else like this in the region over the Christmas and New Year period so we’re hoping to attract up to 100 sailors and their families to come along. The races will be great fun but still very competitive. The main aim is to get people out on the lake to enjoy their sport at a perfect time of year,” he said.

“The club really appreciates Rilean’s involvement and support. We wouldn’t be able to stage the regatta without it.”

Entries are now open for a variety of age groups and sailing classes, from juniors to trailer sailors and catamarans.

Racing over two days is planned mainly around the Frankton Arm of Lake Wakatipu, occasionally venturing into the main body of the lake. Courses will be set each day depending on weather conditions and wind speed and direction.

The regatta starts at midday on Sunday 27th December and runs throughout Monday December 28th, finishing with a prize-giving BBQ at the Wakatipu Yacht Club at Kelvin Heights.

Would-be competitors are urged to go to www.wakatipuyachtclub.co.nz for more information and to download entry forms.