Sydney-Mooloolaba returns

The popular Sydney to Mooloolaba race is returning this year after a 10-year absence. The race will be run the Middle Harbour Yacht Club (MHYC) and the notice of race (NOR) is now posted at the club’s website: www.mhyc.com.au

The return of the race sees it open to both monohull and multihull boats and rated as a Category 2 race (modified) under YA Special Regulations Part 1.

The race is scheduled to start at 1300hrs on Wednesday, April 9. Entries officially open on March 5 and will close on April 2. However, on March 4 already two entries were already in for the multihull division including Sean Langman’s Orma 60 trimaran Team Australia, which will be an odds-on favourite for line honours, and the hot 9.2m racing cat Two Tribes (Paul Nudd).

Unsurprisingly, Sean Langman was one of the driving forces behind getting the Sydney to Moolooaba back onto the ocean racing calendar.

“From the outset I have had a commitment from Grant Wharington with Wild Thing. So we already have a supermaxi and an ORMA 60. That’s pretty exciting in itself,” said Langman.

MHYC Commodore John McCuaig says, “From our club’s perspective we grasp the concept with both hands. Having been involved with the Mooloolaba race from the outset it’s great to have the opportunity be involved again.

“The interest in multihulls generated by the America’s Cup has really strengthened their profile. They are more recognised and more events are putting out the welcome mat.

“We see this as a great avenue to keep the club busy and satisfy a niche in the market.”

Mooloolaba Yacht Club will be responsible for the finish and warm welcome.

The resurrection of the 469nm Sydney to Mooloolaba Yacht Race marks 20 years since the record of 1 day 20 hours 1 minute 43 seconds was set by George Snow’s mighty Jutson 79 Brindabella back in 2004.