8:11 AM Fri 19 Aug 2011 GMT
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'Australian Sabot Nationals 2010'
Elizabeth Sheldon
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Sabot National Championships and Sabot Week Regatta will take place between 28th December 2011 and 5th January 2012 at Southport Yacht Club (SYC), Hollywell. More than 100 sabot sailors are set to converge in Southport this summer.
The combined event is expected to be one of the largest ever run, with the Gold Coast location and the increased level of competition attracting sailors and their families from as far as North Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Tasmania.
Event hosts, the South Queensland Sabot Association (SQSA), chose the venue for its quality facilities both on and off the water.
'It will be hard to find a better location,' SQSA president Ian Smith says.
'Southport's waterways and weather conditions will challenge sailors and local facilities provide perfect viewing for spectators.
'With more than 300 families and friends travelling to the region to support the fleet of sailors, the event will be a big boon for local tourism.
'We have factored plenty of free time in the program for them to make the most of the beautiful beaches, fun theme parks, restaurants and attractions.
'We are also thrilled to announce Club Marine as the lead sponsor and we acknowledge the contribution the organisation is making to ensure the success of young sailors.'
With the fun taken care of, strategic planning for the competition is being managed by Southport Yacht Club's sailing coach Shane Smith. Shane, a former sabot national champion, World Titles and Olympic contender, is also proudly recognised as the patron for the Sabot Week Regatta.
'The Sabot Week Regatta is great for kids just starting out, as they can compete against other sailors of similar ability' says Shane.
'They race for prizes and trophies, just like in the Nationals Championship, but without the pressure of an experienced fleet bearing down on them.
'It's not only rewarding for the newcomers to the sport, but also for the families and coaches who are encouraging them to enjoy sailing.
'We find if we send the young ones home with trophies and prizes, they keep coming back.' he said.
'And,' he adds, 'those competing in the National Championships will not only have fun, but will face more challenging conditions.
'It is shaping up to be an event to suit everyone and that has to be good for sailing,' he says.
Sabot Nationals website
by Kirsten Ferguson
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Double Is Pt, QLD
