Hanse Yacht owners rally sails up a storm

The brightly coloured spinnakers of almost 40 Hanse Yachts lit up overcast Pittwater skies on Saturday 27 March. Gathered for the growing annual Hanse Owners Rally, crews met at the Royal Motor Yacht Club for breakfast and a briefing of the days’ events.

The large fleet headed up Pittwater in a light southerly . Two divisions ensured that yachts without extras had a competitive race amongst themselves, as those with extras sailed to a mark further out towards Barrenjoey.  The fleet then anchored together at the aptly named Hungary Beach for lunch and champagne delivered by tenders.

A fresh breeze was in by the start of the Perpetual Hanse Owners Trophy race. The handicap start and standard sail plan ensured all yachts had an equal chance of taking out the race. It was an exciting beat down towards the finish line at Newport giving all participants an invigorating sail home. Each of the first three boats across the line was a different model showing close racing between the fleet that varied from 32 feet to 54 feet.

Displaying great style and sailed two up by husband and wife team, John and Sarah Ball, the Hanse 53 “Ballistic” was first across the line to be awarded the Trophy at the evening dinner/presentation.  Live music and a great sense of camaraderie between owners completed a successful day. The lucky door prize of a complete set of Helly Hansen wet weather gear was gladly accepted by Peter Freeman, owner of “Wraith”.

Peter Hrones, M.D. of Windcraft, said “It makes me feel very proud, seeing all these people here bound together by one common interest, the love of sailing and the love of their Hanse Yacht. It is hard to believe that we only first held this event in 2007. It excites me to see where we can grow this concept of Hanse Downunder and what further adventures we can have together.”

Windcraft Australia Pty is the importer of Hanse Yachts for Australia and New Zealand. Head office is located on Sydney’s Pittwater.