Audi Hamilton Island Race Week hits 100 entries

'Hamilton Island' Hamilton Island Click Here to view large photo

A cruising yachtsman from Townsville, in Queensland, has lodged the 100th entry for this year's 25th Anniversary Edition of Audi Hamilton Island Race Week. Tristram Denyer was the man who took the fleet size into triple figures when he registered his Bavaria 37, Iseulta, in the Cruising Division for the regatta, which is scheduled for August 23 - 30.

This is my fifth Race Week,' Denyer said, 'and there was no way we weren't going to be there this year for the 25th Anniversary celebrations. It's the best regatta - we have an absolute ball every time we are there, and I'm sure this year will be no different. The racing is excellent, the camaraderie between the crews exceptional, and the post race parties second to none.'

Iseulta's entry also brought a high level of satisfaction for the Race Week organisers. The rate of entries is 20 per cent up on what was achieved at this stage last year. That regatta saw a record fleet of 216 yachts on the starting line.

'The signs are very encouraging for this year's event,' said the Race Director, Denis Thompson. 'The 25th anniversary celebrations are obviously bringing added appeal for competitors, so much so that on current projections we could see a fleet of around 250.'

Tristram Denyer echoed Denis Thompson's words, saying the improvements that came both on and off the water last year, and the significance of it being the Silver Jubilee this year, made Race Week even more of a 'must do' on his sailing agenda.

His attitude to the racing - where the crew includes his wife, Gail - also reflects the wide-based appeal that Audi Hamilton Island Race Week holds with sailors from all levels of the sport: 'We will be trying to win, but it won't really matter if we don't. Having a great time is what Race Week is all about for us. However, we will be sailing a little harder than normal this year as a friend has agreed to join the crew on the proviso that he can replace our tired old second-hand spinnaker with a new one. So, when you see a 'chute emblazoned with 'Zing Space Environmental Consultants' you will know it's us.'

As Race Week approaches Hamilton Island is continuing to expand in spectacular fashion via major upgrades in accommodation, and the development of new facilities. Among the new projects being undertaken is the spectacular 18-hole Hamilton Island Golf Course, and the impressive Hamilton Island Yacht Club complex. The first significant development to be established under the new plan, 'qualia', is a world class resort situated on the secluded northern-most tip of the island.

Audi Hamilton Island Race Week is Australia's most awarded regatta. It has been recognised as Queensland's 'Best Significant Event' at the annual Queensland Tourism Awards on three occasions, and also taken out two Australian Tourism Awards.