Philosopher's Club leads IRC Aus Championship
'Peter Sorensen (r) - Audi Sydney Harbour Regatta 2008, Middle Harbour Yacht Club, Sydney'
Andrea Francolini / Audi ©
Sydney-based sailor, Peter Sorensen, is leading the race for the Audi IRC Australian Championship, heading into the final round at Audi Hamilton Island Race Week which started today.
Sorensen, a member of the Middle Harbour Yacht Club, with 'Philosopher's Club' (IRC Division 3) narrowly leads from 'Quest', owned by Cruising Yacht Club of Australia member Bob Steel (IRC Division 1).
With the final and deciding round of this national Championship Series about to commence at the 25th anniversary edition of Race Week, the competition will be fierce, as befits an important national championship, says Audi's managing director, Joerg Hofmann.
'We look forward to the start of racing today. Not only will the overall winner of Audi Hamilton Island Race Week win a new car, but also the IRC Australian Champion title. With such a strong incentive to win, we look forward to the race for the finish line,' Hofmann said.
Audi Hamilton Island Race Week's Race Director, Denis Thompson, is expecting a close finish.
'Looking at the fleet I think the racing is going to be very tight. I expect the last race to be the decider,' Thompson said.
'The IRC fleet is one of the best ever assembled in Australia, this will make the Audi IRC Championship very close.
'It's not cut and dry who's going to win,' Thompson said.
Sorensen is keen to keep his narrow lead after setting his sights on winning the major prize - a new Audi Q7 - earlier this year.
'I spent some of my superannuation to buy my new Sydney 36CR Philosopher's Club in December last year, and I certainly hope it helps me to win!' Sorensen said.
As is custom, Sorensen has the honour of flying the orange leader flag on Philosophers Club at Race Week.
The CYCA's Bob Steel is also a close contender.
'It's not all over yet - there is one more event before the winner is announced,' added Thompson.
The Audi IRC Australian Championship is endorsed by Yachting Australia.
by Event Media 
Port Macquarie, NSW
