The fleet bound for Noumea were thrown into rough and heavy seas after an initial light and fickle forecast, of which trimaran Vodafone burst out to set a new multihull record for the 960 nautical mile race. She carried a new North gennaker on the way, which stood up to the test to reach the record-setting pace.
Another North dressed boat was 46ft Elliot Tourer Elysium. The Noumea race was her first offshore voyage since getting performance race sails to complement her new NZ Rigging carbon fibre rig. She finished up 8th on line, taking out 2nd place for PHRF, and 4th for IRC. Elysium’s owners are planning to cruise the Illes de Pines, and the Loyalty Island before returning to Auckland mid-July. Elysium also carries a cruising furling jib, and two gennakers which will be perfect for the post-race cruising conversion – and another great example of North versatility to cater for individual boats.
Two complete sets of North race sails on Elliot 12 Bullrush, and RP42 Rikki, also came in at the top end of the fleet.
Results:
1st Multihull: Vodafone North
PHRF Monohull: 1st V5 partial North 2nd Elysium North 3rd Bull Rush North
IRC Monohull: 1st Akatea 2nd Rikki North 3rd Kia Kaha partial North
The 80ft Farr designed maxi Beau Geste also carried a full set of North race sails, which unfortunately didn’t make it to Noumea after structural damage forced them to retire. Before her departure she had enjoyed a classic winter rum race, completing the short course in just over 25 minutes. One of the trimmers on board – former North sail-maker David Wood enjoyed his flying visit back home. Our thoughts are with the crew as they now make their way back to New Zealand.
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