Media Release: Round 4 Napier

Last Saturday, St Patricks Day, the Konica Minolta team thought they would be in for a fast and furious ride on the Pacific Ocean as it looked like a millpond, but typically fickle offshore wind conditions thumped them into reality. Driver Mikey Smith and co-driver Adam Smale made a solid start across the line, but more importantly they took a cautious approach testing out the boat in the conditions. Adam explained “It was really calm in the morning but come race time it got nasty with a side chop and some big holes to contend.”

Mikey added “We used the first couple of laps to get used to the conditions, then had a good run in lap 3 closing the gap.”

With the crowd watching from Perfume Point the rugged conditions started taking its toll on both the boats and the crew. The Konica Minolta team ploughed on, taking advantage of the demise of Total Oil and Energizer to take second place in their class and third place in the 60 mile race overall. This is an excellent result and keeps our team at the top of the table overall.

Team Leader Greg Brinck said “Napier is a tough race in true offshore conditions. Mike and Adam drove a sensible race and looked after the gear. We are only half way through the season so it is important to rack up points. We couldn’t hope for much better at this point, leading both championships with a comfortable points buffer.”

Celebrations at the Napier Sailing Club took a green turn, not from bumpy waters but to commemorate St Patricks Day, with teams dressing up for the occasion.

Only 4 more rounds to go so get planning and be there.

Next race is 31 March at Whitianga, always a great place to view from Buffalo Beach and enjoy a weekend away.

Photos courtesy of Cathy Vercoe – www.LuvMyBoat.com Race Schedule: 31-Mar Whitianga 14-Apr Wellington 28-Apr Auckland 12-May Tauranga For further information, contact Leanne Erceg 021 825 821