World’s best on show at the Docklands
The world’s best sailors will compete in a spectacular, short course, winner take all event at the Melbourne Docklands on Sunday, January 20, 2008. Olympic medalists, round the world racers, America’s Cup veterans and national champions will battle it out in identical sports boats to become the undisputed Vectrix SB3 King of Docklands.
Sixteen teams will be pitted against each other in a knockout series which has been likened to cricket’s revolutionary twenty 20 competition. The teams will be competing for one of the richest prizes for a single day’s racing in Australia, a $17,500 high performance Vectrix maxi-scooter.
Umbrella Event Coordinator Doug Jarvis said the unique format guaranteed fast, short course racing and a rare opportunity for spectators.
“The crème of the international sailing crop will be provided with the world’s fastest growing one design for the winner-take-all series. Identical sports boats, a demanding race course and one heck of a prize from Vectrix will ensure the pressure is on.
“It will be in your face racing and reputations will be on the line,” said Jarvis.
The event, which is part of a Super Sunday of sailing, will consist of four races featuring four equally matched teams with the winner of each race going through to the final. A challenging 220-metre short course on Victoria Harbour will test the nerve and skills of the competing crews. Racing will begin shortly after midday and the final is programmed for 6:30pm. The best vantage point will be Waterfront City.
Jarvis said the event would add an exciting dimension to the overall program.
“Skandia Docklands Invitational is all about the best sailors and the best boats. It is a showcase event. An opportunity for the general public to get up close to a sport that is often out of reach. You can climb aboard an ocean racing super maxi, have a try at sailing, mingle with celebrities and watch the best short course racing imaginable,” he said.
Vectrix, manufacturers of the world’s first high performance electric two wheel vehicle, are thrilled to be involved with sailing.
Vectrix Marketing Director Charles Mann said the Vectrix Maxi Scooter and sailing are an extremely good fit.
“Vectrix is all about high performance and zero emissions. The eventual winners will display the highest performance and they will do so without harming the environment.”
With the event literally on the city’s doorstep, spectators will have a bird’s eye view of the series. Organisers have planned a wide-range of on-shore activities and a host of sailing events for visitors and participants to enjoy. Skandia Docklands Invitational will be staged at Waterfront City Saturday, January 19 and Sunday, January, 20 2008.
The umbrella program is presented by Skandia, the Victorian State Government, the City of Melbourne, The Age, Vectrix and the organising authority Royal Geelong Yacht Club.
Download Entry Form PDF
Download Notice of Race PDF
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Sunday, December 16, 2007
STOP PRESS: LASER SB3 WINS SAILING WORLD BOAT OF THE YEAR AWARD - USA
Article by Chuck Allen: Sailing World
I've tested many sailboats while involved with Sailing World's Boat of the Year program and one of the coolest I've ever encountered is the Laser SB3. The absolute simplicity of this boat is amazing. Upwind it locks into a groove, which in most boats you have to fight to maintain. Downwind is a dream; the SB3 is an incredibly stable platform with remarkable speed.
Since its introduction in Europe in 2004, the SB3 has experienced tremendous growth, with more than 400 boats built. Two reasons for its popularity are that the boat has been designed to be sailed legs-in and all the controls are at the crew's fingertips. Another key feature is that it can be rigged and launched in 45 minutes. The mast is light enough to make raising it a two-man job, allowing the third, and possibly fourth crewmember to rig the rest of the boat. The T-bulb keel, which is raised and lowered by an included, removable gantry, makes launching and hauling painless. As the boat only weighs 1,309 pounds, a mid-sized car can tow it.
We sailed the SB3 twice, in 2 to 7 knots of breeze, and again in 25. Both times the SB3 found its groove easily and we found it nearly impossible to unintentionally slow down or fall off a plane. We tested moving our weight around, with the boat responding as expected. Light air and flat water required moving the crew forward and sitting close together, while in breeze and chop we moved aft. The boat sailed best in the light stuff with a lot of twist, and the long throw of the traveler made this easy; you can pull the car well to windward while easing the mainsheet for power. It was the exact opposite when the breeze was up; vang on, find the correct mainsheet tension and play the traveler up and down to control the angle of heel while maintaining good drive forward. All the controls are easily within reach and if someone needed to jump in to adjust a line, it wasn't a big deal. You think the boat is going to tip over like a dinghy, but the high-aspect keel underneath keeps it on its feet. The boat has a great feeling upwind and because of the flared gunwales, is relatively dry.
Downwind is an absolute blast; simply put, the SB3 rips! During our high-wind test we sailed consistently at around 15 to 18 knots of boatspeed. I would think when setting the 495-square foot kite at the offset in big fleets you would need to stay high, so easing the vang is a smart idea. When the kite reaches the sheave, it's take-off time. Weight aft near the foot straps is the place to be. When driving in breeze, the helmsman is butted up against the backstay, the kite trimmer next forward (using the foot straps), and the bow person is the furthest forward, watching the vang while pumping the main. It's quite obvious when a puff hits that you need to bear down a bit. Once you do so, the boatspeed jumps a couple of knots. A breeze spotter is the way to go, and can make a huge difference in one-design racing in a boat like this.
Jibing is simple, especially with the long pole and high-clewed gennaker. I found the easiest way is to start the jibe slowly, wait until the clew got just past the centerline, and finish on the stronger side, coming out fully powered up. By starting slowly it also gives the crew some time to locate their position on the opposite side of the boat before take off. Sets and takedowns are very simple; there's an enormous launching bag at the forward edge of the cockpit. Takedowns require a quick turn downwind to help the bow person get the kite in the boat completely. Overall, downwind sailing in the SB3 will be some of the best sailing you'll ever do.
The SB3 hull laminate is epoxy with a foam core, and there's an internal frame and bulkheads providing strength and rigidity. The mast is an aluminum deck-stepped Proctor Selden rig with double spreaders. The boom, also by Proctor Selden, is aluminum as well, but the retractable pole is carbon fiber. The boat is mostly Harken equipped, with gear from the Carbo Block and Hexaratchet range. A Spinlock halyard cleating system offers easy lock and release even under load. The rudder is epoxy and core with carbon reinforcement, and the high-aspect ratio keel is based on a stainless steel main member with an epoxy, foam core, polyester skin, and a 770-pound lead bulb.
The best thing the SB3 class has done is put a tight rein on its rules. The boats come complete from bow to stern and you cannot change anything. This ensures tight racing and keeps running costs down. One potential cost issue could be sail purchasing, which is unlimited [but sails are only available from Hyde Sails through Laser]. In Europe the top sailors are showing up with new sails for each big event. Otherwise, you are looking at a $39,000 program (includes sails, trailer, and a TackTick system), which seems high at first, but when you look at comparable boats and their costs, it's right in line, if not better.
The SB3 was clearly the best boat we sailed this year; if not the best boat we have sailed in all our BOTY years. With the buzz over the SB3 in Europe, it seems poised to take the U.S. market by storm. If you get the chance to take one for a sail, go for it; you'll quickly see why we named the SB3 as our top choice.
For more information see link: http://www.sailingworld.com/sailboats/boat-of-the-year/2008-boat-of-the-year-coverage-21031640.html
I've tested many sailboats while involved with Sailing World's Boat of the Year program and one of the coolest I've ever encountered is the Laser SB3. The absolute simplicity of this boat is amazing. Upwind it locks into a groove, which in most boats you have to fight to maintain. Downwind is a dream; the SB3 is an incredibly stable platform with remarkable speed.
Since its introduction in Europe in 2004, the SB3 has experienced tremendous growth, with more than 400 boats built. Two reasons for its popularity are that the boat has been designed to be sailed legs-in and all the controls are at the crew's fingertips. Another key feature is that it can be rigged and launched in 45 minutes. The mast is light enough to make raising it a two-man job, allowing the third, and possibly fourth crewmember to rig the rest of the boat. The T-bulb keel, which is raised and lowered by an included, removable gantry, makes launching and hauling painless. As the boat only weighs 1,309 pounds, a mid-sized car can tow it.
We sailed the SB3 twice, in 2 to 7 knots of breeze, and again in 25. Both times the SB3 found its groove easily and we found it nearly impossible to unintentionally slow down or fall off a plane. We tested moving our weight around, with the boat responding as expected. Light air and flat water required moving the crew forward and sitting close together, while in breeze and chop we moved aft. The boat sailed best in the light stuff with a lot of twist, and the long throw of the traveler made this easy; you can pull the car well to windward while easing the mainsheet for power. It was the exact opposite when the breeze was up; vang on, find the correct mainsheet tension and play the traveler up and down to control the angle of heel while maintaining good drive forward. All the controls are easily within reach and if someone needed to jump in to adjust a line, it wasn't a big deal. You think the boat is going to tip over like a dinghy, but the high-aspect keel underneath keeps it on its feet. The boat has a great feeling upwind and because of the flared gunwales, is relatively dry.
Downwind is an absolute blast; simply put, the SB3 rips! During our high-wind test we sailed consistently at around 15 to 18 knots of boatspeed. I would think when setting the 495-square foot kite at the offset in big fleets you would need to stay high, so easing the vang is a smart idea. When the kite reaches the sheave, it's take-off time. Weight aft near the foot straps is the place to be. When driving in breeze, the helmsman is butted up against the backstay, the kite trimmer next forward (using the foot straps), and the bow person is the furthest forward, watching the vang while pumping the main. It's quite obvious when a puff hits that you need to bear down a bit. Once you do so, the boatspeed jumps a couple of knots. A breeze spotter is the way to go, and can make a huge difference in one-design racing in a boat like this.
Jibing is simple, especially with the long pole and high-clewed gennaker. I found the easiest way is to start the jibe slowly, wait until the clew got just past the centerline, and finish on the stronger side, coming out fully powered up. By starting slowly it also gives the crew some time to locate their position on the opposite side of the boat before take off. Sets and takedowns are very simple; there's an enormous launching bag at the forward edge of the cockpit. Takedowns require a quick turn downwind to help the bow person get the kite in the boat completely. Overall, downwind sailing in the SB3 will be some of the best sailing you'll ever do.
The SB3 hull laminate is epoxy with a foam core, and there's an internal frame and bulkheads providing strength and rigidity. The mast is an aluminum deck-stepped Proctor Selden rig with double spreaders. The boom, also by Proctor Selden, is aluminum as well, but the retractable pole is carbon fiber. The boat is mostly Harken equipped, with gear from the Carbo Block and Hexaratchet range. A Spinlock halyard cleating system offers easy lock and release even under load. The rudder is epoxy and core with carbon reinforcement, and the high-aspect ratio keel is based on a stainless steel main member with an epoxy, foam core, polyester skin, and a 770-pound lead bulb.
The best thing the SB3 class has done is put a tight rein on its rules. The boats come complete from bow to stern and you cannot change anything. This ensures tight racing and keeps running costs down. One potential cost issue could be sail purchasing, which is unlimited [but sails are only available from Hyde Sails through Laser]. In Europe the top sailors are showing up with new sails for each big event. Otherwise, you are looking at a $39,000 program (includes sails, trailer, and a TackTick system), which seems high at first, but when you look at comparable boats and their costs, it's right in line, if not better.
The SB3 was clearly the best boat we sailed this year; if not the best boat we have sailed in all our BOTY years. With the buzz over the SB3 in Europe, it seems poised to take the U.S. market by storm. If you get the chance to take one for a sail, go for it; you'll quickly see why we named the SB3 as our top choice.
For more information see link: http://www.sailingworld.com/sailboats/boat-of-the-year/2008-boat-of-the-year-coverage-21031640.html
Sunday, December 2, 2007
Volvo Laser SB3 Middle East Grand Prix
Round 2 – Al Hamra Village Marina, Ras Al Khaimah
23rd – 24th November
Event Overview
Held at the newly opened Al Hamra Village Marina, on the 23rd and 24th November, Round Two of the Volvo Laser SB3 Middle East Grand Prix proved to be another exciting chapter in this evolving Grand Prix Circuit. With outstanding on water facilities and the promise of further expansions in the near future it proved an excellent base for the weekends racing.
Al Hamra proved an exciting arena for both offshore and onshore activities, with the crews appreciating the challenges of the Al Hamra Golf Resort Driving Range over a few refreshing beverages at the Dunes Terrace once racing had wound up for the day, not to mention the bountiful BBQ that accompanied the Prize Giving Ceremony on the 24th November.
Special thanks must go to the logistical support from Volvo, with the Grand Prix Series XC90’s proving invaluable in transporting the fleet to the Northern Emirates, also to Chris White, General Manager of Al Hamra Golf Club and Marina, for all his support in organising this event and making his facilities available to us for the weekend.
Race Report
Day One – Light morning desert breezes matured through the mid-morning into a promising sea breeze gaining strength and maintaining direction as Race One got under way at approximately 1pm. This was true Grand Prix style Short Course Racing, with course lengths set between 0.4 and 0.6 nautical miles with up to four laps contested in each race. The emphasis was on smooth crew work and fault-free execution of mark rounding’s and tactical fleet play up wind. By late afternoon Jonathan Hill had exerted his dominance on the day’s proceedings with two bullets from three races, DeVere Racing picking up the win in the second race. Markus Fiala was snapping at their heals with two 2nds onboard Petite Tazo, and the ever consistent Team Premier Composites, Series Leaders after Round One, sitting in third place with 5,3,2.
Day Two – Stronger morning pressure off the desert delayed the arrival and strength of the sea breeze for day two, though there were no complaints from those looking for a little weekend tan, with another stunningly clear and sunny 31C day greeting all competitors and officials. Renowned local race officer Brian Hooper was keen to get the proceedings underway and with 5 knots he launched Race Four at approximately 12:30pm. Again following the shorter course strategy of Day One, the fleet quickly split in search of fickle zephyrs. Team Premier Composites quickly asserted their strength with two quick bullets, but it was Team Laser with Tom Pratt at the helm who surprised with a consistent 2,3,2, making the most of their lighter crew weight and often leading to the top mark but unable to find the downwind pace to hold off the likes of Hannes Waimer and Jonathan Hill who between them walked away with five of the six victories.
Round Three of the Volvo Laser SB3 Middle East Grand Prix sees crews shift their focus to the waters off the Abu Dhabi Corniche. To be held on the 14th – 15th December it is already shaping up to be a cracking weekend of racing, with the prospect of new teams, and some breezier conditions already whetting the sailors appetites.
Round Four and the arrival of the New Year sees the crews take flight to the Indian Ocean Coast of Oman, for two days of spectacular racing along the jagged coastline of the nations capital, Muscat, on the 25th – 26th January.
Round Five and the series shifts its focus back to the UAE, but this time to the East Coast port city of Fujairah. Renowned for its fishing and abundance of shipping, it will be an interesting test for crews and race officials alike.
Round Six, the Grand Final, and it’s all eyes on the Dubai International Boat Show 2008, with racing being held in and around the world famous Palm Jumeirah development over the Boat Show Weekend 14th-15th March 2008, it will be a fitting climax for this One Design Grand Prix Series.
23rd – 24th November
Event Overview
Held at the newly opened Al Hamra Village Marina, on the 23rd and 24th November, Round Two of the Volvo Laser SB3 Middle East Grand Prix proved to be another exciting chapter in this evolving Grand Prix Circuit. With outstanding on water facilities and the promise of further expansions in the near future it proved an excellent base for the weekends racing.
Al Hamra proved an exciting arena for both offshore and onshore activities, with the crews appreciating the challenges of the Al Hamra Golf Resort Driving Range over a few refreshing beverages at the Dunes Terrace once racing had wound up for the day, not to mention the bountiful BBQ that accompanied the Prize Giving Ceremony on the 24th November.
Special thanks must go to the logistical support from Volvo, with the Grand Prix Series XC90’s proving invaluable in transporting the fleet to the Northern Emirates, also to Chris White, General Manager of Al Hamra Golf Club and Marina, for all his support in organising this event and making his facilities available to us for the weekend.
Race Report
Day One – Light morning desert breezes matured through the mid-morning into a promising sea breeze gaining strength and maintaining direction as Race One got under way at approximately 1pm. This was true Grand Prix style Short Course Racing, with course lengths set between 0.4 and 0.6 nautical miles with up to four laps contested in each race. The emphasis was on smooth crew work and fault-free execution of mark rounding’s and tactical fleet play up wind. By late afternoon Jonathan Hill had exerted his dominance on the day’s proceedings with two bullets from three races, DeVere Racing picking up the win in the second race. Markus Fiala was snapping at their heals with two 2nds onboard Petite Tazo, and the ever consistent Team Premier Composites, Series Leaders after Round One, sitting in third place with 5,3,2.
Day Two – Stronger morning pressure off the desert delayed the arrival and strength of the sea breeze for day two, though there were no complaints from those looking for a little weekend tan, with another stunningly clear and sunny 31C day greeting all competitors and officials. Renowned local race officer Brian Hooper was keen to get the proceedings underway and with 5 knots he launched Race Four at approximately 12:30pm. Again following the shorter course strategy of Day One, the fleet quickly split in search of fickle zephyrs. Team Premier Composites quickly asserted their strength with two quick bullets, but it was Team Laser with Tom Pratt at the helm who surprised with a consistent 2,3,2, making the most of their lighter crew weight and often leading to the top mark but unable to find the downwind pace to hold off the likes of Hannes Waimer and Jonathan Hill who between them walked away with five of the six victories.
Round Three of the Volvo Laser SB3 Middle East Grand Prix sees crews shift their focus to the waters off the Abu Dhabi Corniche. To be held on the 14th – 15th December it is already shaping up to be a cracking weekend of racing, with the prospect of new teams, and some breezier conditions already whetting the sailors appetites.
Round Four and the arrival of the New Year sees the crews take flight to the Indian Ocean Coast of Oman, for two days of spectacular racing along the jagged coastline of the nations capital, Muscat, on the 25th – 26th January.
Round Five and the series shifts its focus back to the UAE, but this time to the East Coast port city of Fujairah. Renowned for its fishing and abundance of shipping, it will be an interesting test for crews and race officials alike.
Round Six, the Grand Final, and it’s all eyes on the Dubai International Boat Show 2008, with racing being held in and around the world famous Palm Jumeirah development over the Boat Show Weekend 14th-15th March 2008, it will be a fitting climax for this One Design Grand Prix Series.
Saturday, December 1, 2007
Dublin Bay = venue for the first SB3 Worlds
Dublin Bay will be the venue for the first ever World Championships for the sensational Laser SB3 Sportboats – the world’s fastest growing keelboat.
The National Yacht Club (www.nyc.ie and www.sb3worlds2008.com) will run the event next September and the huge fleet of 120 boats will be the largest ever assembled in Irish waters for a single make keel boat event.
NYC Commodore Con Murphy spoke of the significance of the event and it’s status in international sailing: “The SB3 is an out and out racing boat which has had explosive growth since it began in 2000. There are now 400 boats worldwide – raced by many national champions and Olympic sailors. This is the hottest boat in international racing and we are delighted to be the first country and club to host their world championships”.
The Championships are expected to be an Open event and competitors will be travelling from all over the world. Strong teams will travel from the Middle East, USA and as far away as Austrialia and New Zealand as well as many European countries.
There are still some details to be sorted as event Chairman Rory Byrne explained: “We will be seeking a commercial sponsor for the event and are having discussions with a number of firms and expect to make an announcement at the end of January. Logistically to cater for a fleet of 120 wet sailing boats will take some planning – but we are getting great support from many organisations.
It will be the best single manufacturer sailing championship ever run in Dublin Bay”
Formal Notice of Race will be published at the end of January 2008.
Programme:
Saturday 20st Sept - Arrival, Registration, Measurement
Sunday 21st Sept - Registration, Measurement, Practice race & Opening ceremony
Monday 22nd Sept – 3 races
Tuesday 23rd Sept – 3 races
Wednesday 24th Sept – 3 races
Thursday 25th Sept – 3 races
Friday 26th Sept - 2 races, Prize giving and closing ceremony
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
SB3 Gains ISAF Recognition
Wednesday 14th November 2007
LASER / Dart SB3 gains ISAF recognition following the ISAF Council meeting in Estoril, Portugal.
Dartsailboats and the SB3 class association are delighted to announce the SB3 as an ISAF recognised class.
As the class grows so does the competitiveness of the fleet, ISAF’s knowledge and experience with helping emerging classes will be a great benefit to the Class Association and the future of the LASER / Dart SB3.
Performance Sailcraft Europe Ltd have produced over 400 boats, and the SB3 is now established in 7 countries, including, Dubai, Singapore, Italy and Portugal.
With the acquisition of Vanguard Sailboats, the SB3 is now being launched across North America.
In 2008 the SB3 Inaugural World Championships will be held in Dublin, from September 22-26 at the National Yacht Club.
Tim Bourke, SB3 Ireland Chairman, comments “From a standing start in 2006 the SB3 is now Ireland’s most successful keelboat class ever. Hosting the inaugural SB3 World Championships for up to 120 boats in 2008 will be the highlight of this adventure for the class. The Dublin event should be a pretty good party too!!”
David Graham MD of PSE quotes;
“2007 has been a spectacular year for the SB3 with the biggest entry ever at Skandia Cowes Week, with 98 boats competing, The Volkswagen Touareg King of Cowes, fantastic Europeans at Weymouth, new districts worldwide emerging and sailors from all continents joining the class; ISAF recognition is the icing on the cake”’.
For more information regarding the SB3, please contact:
Dartsailboats (AUS/NZ) info@drtsailboats.com, +61 9016 4151
Performance Sailcraft Europe, James.lund-lack@lasersailing.com, +44 (0)1327 841603
Vanguard Sailboats (USA),info@teamvanguard.com,800-966-SAIL,
LASER / Dart SB3 gains ISAF recognition following the ISAF Council meeting in Estoril, Portugal.
Dartsailboats and the SB3 class association are delighted to announce the SB3 as an ISAF recognised class.
As the class grows so does the competitiveness of the fleet, ISAF’s knowledge and experience with helping emerging classes will be a great benefit to the Class Association and the future of the LASER / Dart SB3.
Performance Sailcraft Europe Ltd have produced over 400 boats, and the SB3 is now established in 7 countries, including, Dubai, Singapore, Italy and Portugal.
With the acquisition of Vanguard Sailboats, the SB3 is now being launched across North America.
In 2008 the SB3 Inaugural World Championships will be held in Dublin, from September 22-26 at the National Yacht Club.
Tim Bourke, SB3 Ireland Chairman, comments “From a standing start in 2006 the SB3 is now Ireland’s most successful keelboat class ever. Hosting the inaugural SB3 World Championships for up to 120 boats in 2008 will be the highlight of this adventure for the class. The Dublin event should be a pretty good party too!!”
David Graham MD of PSE quotes;
“2007 has been a spectacular year for the SB3 with the biggest entry ever at Skandia Cowes Week, with 98 boats competing, The Volkswagen Touareg King of Cowes, fantastic Europeans at Weymouth, new districts worldwide emerging and sailors from all continents joining the class; ISAF recognition is the icing on the cake”’.
For more information regarding the SB3, please contact:
Dartsailboats (AUS/NZ) info@drtsailboats.com, +61 9016 4151
Performance Sailcraft Europe, James.lund-lack@lasersailing.com, +44 (0)1327 841603
Vanguard Sailboats (USA),info@teamvanguard.com,800-966-SAIL,
Sunday, November 11, 2007
Volvo SB3 Middle East Grand Prix
After two days of racing in light sub-planing conditions the winners of the inaugural round of the Volvo Laser SB3 Middle East Grand Prix have been decided.
Hannes and Max Waimer racing Team Premier Composites showed consistant speed across both days, with a 1,2,3,3,1,6. Recent additions to the Grand Prix line up these boat building brothers bring vast class experience to the fleet, having previously been behind DK Yachts.
Second place was won by Jonathan Hill racing Men On Pause, as the first Laser SB3 owner in the region Jonathan has shown that time on the water is invaluable in this fleet, and his pioneering support of the class is greatly appreciated by the event organisers and local distributor ART Marine.
Tied on points but third on countback DeVere Racing, helmed by pereninal local competitor David Worrall showed impressive speed and strong tactical nouse through out the weekends racing.
Results amongst these top three teams were down to a missed shift here, or a good rounding there and with fourth placed Petite Tazo only a point behind and fifth and sixth tied after that there are plenty of excellent teams nipping at their heals.
These included event guests Team Holt, skippered by Simon Russell for the weekend... and whilst some of the action at local nightclub Boudoir might have been a little more fresh to frightening than the weather for the weekend we hope to see more appearances from our international friends through out the series.
With literally seconds deciding each race OD racing has truely arrived in the Gulf, we look forward to a few weekend of club racing, some new entrants and then the next competative Grand Prix round at Ras Al Khaimah on the 23rd / 24th November.
Hannes and Max Waimer racing Team Premier Composites showed consistant speed across both days, with a 1,2,3,3,1,6. Recent additions to the Grand Prix line up these boat building brothers bring vast class experience to the fleet, having previously been behind DK Yachts.
Second place was won by Jonathan Hill racing Men On Pause, as the first Laser SB3 owner in the region Jonathan has shown that time on the water is invaluable in this fleet, and his pioneering support of the class is greatly appreciated by the event organisers and local distributor ART Marine.
Tied on points but third on countback DeVere Racing, helmed by pereninal local competitor David Worrall showed impressive speed and strong tactical nouse through out the weekends racing.
Results amongst these top three teams were down to a missed shift here, or a good rounding there and with fourth placed Petite Tazo only a point behind and fifth and sixth tied after that there are plenty of excellent teams nipping at their heals.
These included event guests Team Holt, skippered by Simon Russell for the weekend... and whilst some of the action at local nightclub Boudoir might have been a little more fresh to frightening than the weather for the weekend we hope to see more appearances from our international friends through out the series.
With literally seconds deciding each race OD racing has truely arrived in the Gulf, we look forward to a few weekend of club racing, some new entrants and then the next competative Grand Prix round at Ras Al Khaimah on the 23rd / 24th November.
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Fierce competition expected as the Dart SB3 Nationals approaches
Momentum is growing in the run up to the inaugural SB3 National Championships to be held during Skandia Geelong Week, 25 - 27 January. Heads are being turned in Australia and throughout the world’s sailing community. There are 12 confirmed teams for the event which feature some of the country’s top sailors and who all are looking forward to a slice of the action.
Early entrants include:
1. ‘PWC’ Skippered by UK yachtsman Jono Shelley and featuring a highly skilled crew, this team will be hard to beat as they have been racing the SB3 in Europe for the last four years. Sponsored in the UK by PWC, this team has always featured highly at the major event. They are travelling half way round the world and mean business.
2. ‘Tasqua Youth’ Former Australian Sabot champion Sean O’Rourke has good reason to be excited about his future career in One-Design fleet racing and the highly competitive IRC class ocean racing. The exceptionally talented Mooloolaba Yacht Club sailor, who added the Audi Australian IRC championship to his impressive career as a member of the Rod Jones skippered OceanBuro crew, has been selected to skipper the Tasqua Management Services Dart SB3.
3. ‘Team Oceanburo’ Skippered by Kai Timm, tactician and top sailing coach. Kai is the distributor for the SB3 in Australia and will have had a chance to sharpen his teeth well before the event.
4. ‘Guy Bancroft’ This top Melbourne based sailor just missed out of the top spot at this years B14 World Championships. Guy is vastly experienced with high performance sailing and should be on the pace from day one.
5. ‘Newcastle Yachting’ skippered by Glenn Coulton, GC is an ex FF15 World Champion and J24 National Champion and will be joined by Dale Sharp from his J24 campaigns.
6. ‘Insomnia’ skippered by Newcastle Restaurateur Mark Prince. Mark will be joined by crew including Steve Mackay.
This is the first time many of the teams will compete in the SB3, lured here by the strict one design performance sailing of the Dart SB3 national championship. Oceanburo, distributors for the SB3’s have made a limited number of charter boats available to enable sailors the chance to enjoy all that Skandia Geelong Week has to offer. These boats will also be available for sale after the event at a reduced rate. To find out more please visit: www.dartsailboats.com or www.oceanburo.com.au
We have been delighted with the response to the SB3 and the event is shaping up fantastically for the SB3 racing. As well as the national championships, Skilled Engineering is joining in the fun by running the Skilled Corporate Cup in SB3’s. This event will give Skilled staff teams the chance to test their sailing abilities under the watchful eyes of experienced sailors for the overall Corporate Cup victory. Another great event for the SB3 at SGW.
Everyone is getting onboard! Are you?
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Former Australian Sabot Champion Joins the SB3
Former Australian Sabot champion Sean O’Rourke has good reason to be excited about his future career in One Design fleet racing and the highly competitive IRC class ocean racing.
The exceptionally talented Mooloolaba Yacht Club sailor who added the Audi Australian IRC championship to his impressive career as a member of the Rod Jones skippered OceanBuro crew has been selected to skipper an exciting new Dart SB3.
One of the four Dart SB3’s which are due to arrive in a shipping container next month has been sponsored by Tasqua Management Services a Sunshine Coast Development and Investment Company to further promote youth sailing at the Mooloolaba Yacht Club.
Sean O’Rourke who valued leaning ‘the ropes’ with Sabot class racing on the open ocean courses off Pt Cartwright showed his class when he won the National Gold Medal in a similar open water racing environment on Port Denison (Bowen).
He has since matured into a clever tactician and his selection to steer the new Dart SB3 under Tasqua Management Services ‘Battle flag’ is a fitting reward.
Mooloolaba Yacht Club has a proud history of producing Australian junior class sailing champions but unfortunately they have either drifted away from the sport or continued their senior class racing with Brisbane clubs.
Fortunately this exciting new One Design sailing program to be managed by Rod Jones and Kai Timm the principles of the successful OceanBuro racing team promises to stem the flow of talent by offering young Sunshine Coast and Queensland sailors an opportunity to compete in National and World championships.
The program will be officially launched with Sean O’Rourke and Matt Jones nominated to represent Queensland in the inaugural Dart SB3 Australian championship which will be sailed in conjunction with Audi Geelong Race Week series in late January.
Meanwhile the OceanBuro Performance Sailing squad members O’Rourke and Jones will enter into an extensive sail training program off Mooloolaba where they will develop their understanding of racing the Dart SB3 to her potential.
Skipper Sean O’Rourke and Matt Jones will have almost three months to become familiar with the new class which promises to provide champion youth sailors and older sailors with the opportunity to experience the challenge of one-design class racing in club, Queensland, Australian and World championship regattas.
The Dart SB3 has experienced tremendous growth in Europe with big fleets competing in fleet racing on the major international sport boat regatta circuit.
They have the design pedigree to make an exciting debut in Australia but more importantly the class will encourage both young and old Sunshine Coast sailors with a personal challenge to compete in an affordable strict one design class with the Mooloolaba Yacht Club based OceanBuro sail development program.
The combined support of Tasqua Management Services and the sailing skills of Rod Jones, Kai Timm and Sean O’Rourke have provided a solid foundation to inject a high standard sail development program back into the proud history of the Mooloolaba Yacht Club which has played a major role in producing a number of Australian champions including the 2007 Audi Australian IRC trophy winner Alegria.
Sunday, October 14, 2007
Charter SB3's available for Sale at a Great Price
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A unique opportunity exists to enter the exciting new SB3 fleet in Australia
- at a once only price
After Skandia Geelong Race Week in 2008 , Oceanburo will release its fleet of 8 charter boats , For Sale , on a first in best dressed basis.
These are brand new SB3s , except for the four days of sailing they will be involved in at SGRW ….
They will be sold with brand new sails ( not the sails used by the charters ) and in full Oceanburo SB3 specification
Our standard SB3 pack includes
- Fully rigged ready to sail Dart SB3 with
- Hyde Race Sails pack ( brand new sails – main / jib / asso )
- Tactic Race Master electronics
- Fibreglass removable outboard bracket
- Road Trailer ( Australian built by Belco Trailers and fully ADR compliant )
This normally retails for $49,990.00
However 8 only boats will be available after Skandia Geelong week for $47,490.00 with the added inclusion of a custom Dart boat cover , normally a $990.00 option.
This represents a near $3500.00 saving on normal retail.
There are 8 boats only , this offer will not be repeated and the offer is available for boats ex Geelong or Melbourne and is open from now until close of the offer on February 28th at 1700 hrs.
Don’t Miss this opportunity to join the fastest growing one design class in the world today……..
Please email Oceanburo to register your interest today.
kaitimm@oceanburo.com.au
www.oceanburo.com.au
mob 0404094244
Thursday, October 4, 2007
International Sailors Join the SB3 Action at Skandia Geelong Week
Even if the weather isn’t hot in Geelong for this year’s Skandia Geelong Week, the SB3 racing is forecast to be sizzling! Top international crews will be competing against crews from Melbourne, Hobart and Queensland for the inaugural SB3 event at Skandia Geelong.
Billed by one of the UK visiting teams as “revenge for the Ashes”, these teams mean business! Are they going to have it their way? It looks unlikely, with some top Australian teams including experienced international sailors, impressive pedigrees and a string of results already under their belts.
Choosing a winner in a fleet packed with talent is almost impossible, but two skippers to watch will certainly be Jono Shelley and Kai Timm. Shelley is flying from the UK to try and win the SB3 event at SGW. Shelley has always placed well in the SB3 events around the world, and has come second three years in row at Skandia Cowes Week. Kai Timm, the tactician from the current Audi IRC championship winning boat Alegria, is sure to be another front runner.
The SB3 is the fastest growing sports boat fleet in the world and has attracted some of the best sailors including triple Laser World Champion Glenn Bour
ke: “In my opinion the SB3 is simply the best small keelboat money can buy. They are good in light airs or a howling blow, they are tactical upwind and down which makes for good racing and, once you launch the masthead spiny then get ready for some blasting downwind action. But what really helps set this one design apart from all the others is how easy they are – easy to find crew, with only three necessary, easy to rig, easy to tow and best of all, easy on the pocket”
Oceanburo, distributors for the Dart SB3’s, have made charter boats available for the event. Giving potential customers the chance to sail and experience this awesome boat and event before purchasing.
Rodney Jones, Director of Oceanburo, says: “I have always enjoyed Skandia Geelong Week and am really excited about the prospect of the strict one design class racing. With the added competition that the overseas sailor will bring, this is truly set to be an event to remember.”
Skilled Engineering, renowned for the provision of workforce solutions and helping companies deliver a competitive edge, are joining the action by running the Skilled Corporate Cup in SB3’s. This event will give Skilled staff teams the chance to test their sailing abilities under the watchful eyes of experienced sailors for the overall Corporate Cup victory. Another great event for the SB3 at SGW.
Everyone is getting onboard! Are you?
To find out more about the Dart SB3, please contact:
Dartsailboats
Tel: +61 (0)3 9016 4151
Email: info@dartsailboats.com
http://www.dartsailboats.com
Billed by one of the UK visiting teams as “revenge for the Ashes”, these teams mean business! Are they going to have it their way? It looks unlikely, with some top Australian teams including experienced international sailors, impressive pedigrees and a string of results already under their belts.
Choosing a winner in a fleet packed with talent is almost impossible, but two skippers to watch will certainly be Jono Shelley and Kai Timm. Shelley is flying from the UK to try and win the SB3 event at SGW. Shelley has always placed well in the SB3 events around the world, and has come second three years in row at Skandia Cowes Week. Kai Timm, the tactician from the current Audi IRC championship winning boat Alegria, is sure to be another front runner.
The SB3 is the fastest growing sports boat fleet in the world and has attracted some of the best sailors including triple Laser World Champion Glenn Bour
ke: “In my opinion the SB3 is simply the best small keelboat money can buy. They are good in light airs or a howling blow, they are tactical upwind and down which makes for good racing and, once you launch the masthead spiny then get ready for some blasting downwind action. But what really helps set this one design apart from all the others is how easy they are – easy to find crew, with only three necessary, easy to rig, easy to tow and best of all, easy on the pocket”
Oceanburo, distributors for the Dart SB3’s, have made charter boats available for the event. Giving potential customers the chance to sail and experience this awesome boat and event before purchasing.
Rodney Jones, Director of Oceanburo, says: “I have always enjoyed Skandia Geelong Week and am really excited about the prospect of the strict one design class racing. With the added competition that the overseas sailor will bring, this is truly set to be an event to remember.”
Skilled Engineering, renowned for the provision of workforce solutions and helping companies deliver a competitive edge, are joining the action by running the Skilled Corporate Cup in SB3’s. This event will give Skilled staff teams the chance to test their sailing abilities under the watchful eyes of experienced sailors for the overall Corporate Cup victory. Another great event for the SB3 at SGW.
Everyone is getting onboard! Are you?
To find out more about the Dart SB3, please contact:
Dartsailboats
Tel: +61 (0)3 9016 4151
Email: info@dartsailboats.com
http://www.dartsailboats.com
Wednesday, October 3, 2007
Glen Bourke Wins UK SB3 Nationals
On the final day of the Laser SB3 National Championships two races were completed in light airs before the third race was abandoned. Overall victory went to Glenn Bourke, Jeremy Troughton and Tony Kilby sailing Musto. Russell Peters (Tack Tick) won the first race of the day with Glenn Bourke close behind in second and Barry Parkin (Hullabaloo) in third. Race two saw Paul Brotherton cross the line first with Colin Simmonds second and Parkin taking third once again. Bourke was safely in sixth place, with nearest rival, Peters, in ninth.
With the third race abandoned, Bourke, Troughton and Kilby were crowned the 2007 Laser SB3 National Champions after a 14 race series that saw some spectacularly close racing over four days. Second was Russell Peters with Greg Wells and James Grant, who had lead after the second day when they won three of the four races. An OCS on the third day and then a couple of double digit results were enough to let the ever-consistent Bourke, back into the lead, which he held to the final race. In third overall was Badger Racing; Paul Lovejoy with Rob and Peter Greenhalgh and Sally Wilson, and fourth was Paul Brotherton with Bill Masterman and James Fawcett in Pants.
Long days on the water battling against the cold northerly and a strong ebbing tide to get back to the warmth of the HISC bar meant many of the fleet found the event exhausting. This didn’t stop them celebrating in the usual energetic style at the Saturday evening Championship Prize Giving and Dinner.
The SB3 Class Association President, Daniel Geoghegan, described the event as one of the highest-calibre regattas seen on the SB3 circuit to date. He thanked Volkswagen Touareg for their generous sponsorship throughout the season. Dave Cheyne was given a special trophy for his commitment and superb work for the class over the years. Laser Direct Event Support were highlighted for doing a fantastic job, in particular Ian Mills, putting in long hours to ensure everyone’s boats were in top shape.
Prizes were awarded for the SB3 Grand Prix Series, which comprised of four events during the season:
1st Place: Palava - Geoff Carveth
2nd Place: Team Touareg - Craig Burlton
3rd Place: Champagne Blonde – Daniel Geoghegan
On winning the Laser SB3 UK National Championships for the second time, Glenn Bourke thanked Hayling Island Sailing Club for their friendly welcome, giving a special mention to the PRO Paul Carpenter, his team of volunteers and the protest committee for their professional running of a brilliant series. “We had a fantastic battle with Russell and his guys on Tack Tick, I lost count of how many wins they had. I am very pleased to have won it and couldn’t have done so without my crew JT and Tony, who did a great job both at Cowes and here.”
Friday, September 28, 2007
SB3 UK Nationals Update day 3 by Claire Molloy
Glenn Bourke takes the lead in ‘Musto’
Day 3 of the Laser SB3 National Championships at Hayling Island was long, cold, wet and windy. 5 races were sailed in a shifty northerly 20-25 knot breeze. Volvo Ocean Race CEO, Glenn Bourke had another strong day to take the lead from Russell Peters on ‘Tack Tick’. But it wasn’t all plain sailing for the leaders today, as the top three all found themselves black-flagged in the second race. Lawrie Smith took advantage of this to win his first race of the championships. Jono Shelley and yours truly on ‘PricewaterhouseCoopers’ came in second with Jez Entwistle ‘S4B’ close behind in 3rd place.
Paul Lovejoy, ‘Badger Racing’, won the first race, but had mixed results following his OCS in the second, including a rare dead-heat for 13th with Andrew Dallas’s ‘Hullabaloo’ in race 4. An OCS for Craig Burlton’s ‘Team Touareg’ in the second race seemed to spur him on, getting his best results of the championship for the remaining races (2,4,4) and making it into the top 10 overall.
The 2006 National Champion, Geoff Carveth also fell to the black flag in the final race, but with the second discard coming into effect today, moved up to 4th overall. Mark Rushall and his team on ‘Risk Premium’ showed consistently good form to climb up the rankings to 5th place.
With 3 races tomorrow to complete the championships and conditions forecast to ease, we might see Glenn Bourke crowned SB3 National Champion title for the second time.
Day 3 of the Laser SB3 National Championships at Hayling Island was long, cold, wet and windy. 5 races were sailed in a shifty northerly 20-25 knot breeze. Volvo Ocean Race CEO, Glenn Bourke had another strong day to take the lead from Russell Peters on ‘Tack Tick’. But it wasn’t all plain sailing for the leaders today, as the top three all found themselves black-flagged in the second race. Lawrie Smith took advantage of this to win his first race of the championships. Jono Shelley and yours truly on ‘PricewaterhouseCoopers’ came in second with Jez Entwistle ‘S4B’ close behind in 3rd place.
Paul Lovejoy, ‘Badger Racing’, won the first race, but had mixed results following his OCS in the second, including a rare dead-heat for 13th with Andrew Dallas’s ‘Hullabaloo’ in race 4. An OCS for Craig Burlton’s ‘Team Touareg’ in the second race seemed to spur him on, getting his best results of the championship for the remaining races (2,4,4) and making it into the top 10 overall.
The 2006 National Champion, Geoff Carveth also fell to the black flag in the final race, but with the second discard coming into effect today, moved up to 4th overall. Mark Rushall and his team on ‘Risk Premium’ showed consistently good form to climb up the rankings to 5th place.
With 3 races tomorrow to complete the championships and conditions forecast to ease, we might see Glenn Bourke crowned SB3 National Champion title for the second time.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
SB3 UK Nationals Update
'Team Maclaren - Christina Summer, Catherine Williamson, Barbara Watson, Lizzie Vickers' Around The Cans Click Here to view large photo The second day of the Volkswagen Touareg Laser SB3 National Championships was another windy affair. Waking to a northerly breeze gusting over 30 knots, the PRO called a 1-hour postponement allowing competitors to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and the wonderful view at Hayling Island Sailing Club, before tackling the Bay.Images from the days racing - http://www.sail-world.com/indexs.cfm?nid=37808 Russell Peters, James Grant and Greg Wells on 'TackTick' were on top form today winning 3 of the 4 races sailed. The all-woman crew on 'Team Maclaren' gained a considerable lead over the rest of the fleet in the third race but were hunted down by 'tacktick' who stole the win from them close to the finish.Glenn Bourke’s 'Musto' continued to do consistently well, with 4, 2, 4, 4. Paul Lovejoy, Rob and Peter Greenhalgh and Sally Wilson on 'Badger Racing' started the day brilliantly with a second place in the first race and a bullet in the second. Having gained a third in the final race they are currently sitting in third place overall.Lawrie Smith’s disasters of yesterday were a distant memory as he Ozzie Stewart and Rob Cruikshank hit the water this morning in 'Alfie'. They also proved that they have not lost their touch posting 6-3-7-10, to be sitting fourth overall going into the penultimate day.After gear failure and running aground after racing yesterday, the current European Champion, Geoff Carveth sailed well today to place fifth overall.With one discard coming into effect today and potentially another eight races to sail, the top ten positions are by no means secure. Peters and Bourke have pulled ahead of the pack with 21 points each, but we are still only at the mid-way stage, with two days to go.Sinking feeling for Lawrie Smith On the first day Lawrie Smith had a major port starboard collision in the third race (Lawrie was on port) and had a huge gaping hole. He managed to limp back to the entrance of Chichester Harbour before he had to abandon ship and his SB3 sank with just the tip of the mast being visible.His boat drifted three miles before it was recovered by Frank in Hayling Rescue. It finally arrived back at the sailing club at 8.30pm whisked into the Scruiteneers shed and worked on by some incredible boat builders overnight with the final polish going on just as the fleet were going out for their second days racing.The other boat that spent the night in the scruiteneers shed was Geoff Carveth's whose SB3, for the second time in three days, had found it's way onto the Winner Bank when returning from the race track and decided that his keel needed some TLC.Full results at: http://www.hisc.co.uk/openresults07/sb3_nats_2007.htmImages from the days racing - http://www.sail-world.com/indexs.cfm?nid=37808
Charter SB3's available for Skandia Geelong
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Dartsailboats and Oceanburo are pleased to announce they have received funding to reduce the charter fee for SB3’s at Skandia Geelong Week. This offer is limited and will be based on a first come first serve basis.
Skandia Geelong Week (SGW) is the largest sailing regatta in Australia with over 400 yachts competing over the five days. Oceanburo is offering charters to overseas and interstate sailors enabling them to enjoy this fantastic boat and event. Rod Jones Director, fresh from his overall IRC championship win said “I am really glad we have been able to offer an even more competitive charter fee for this fantastic event. We are looking forward to developing the class in Australia and experiencing strict one design class racing, with the added competition that the overseas sailor will bring this is truly set to be an awesome event”.
All the boats are new and are also available for sale after the event. Boats will be available at Geelong Week approximately two days before the start of the event and will include the appropriate public liability insurance required to compete in the event as a minimum.
Grade 1 - Recommended charter fee was $6,000AUD and is now $3,000 AUD due to funding support.
Pre regatta training will also be available from the Oceanburo team to ensure sailors are able to gain maximum performance from these exciting boats.
To find out more information or to book your charter please contact:
Dartsailboats:Tel: +61 (0)3 9016 4151
Email: info@dartsailboats.com http://www.dartsailboats.com/
Oceanburo: Tel: +61 (0)404 094244
Email: kaitimm@oceanburo.com.au http://www.oceanburo.com.au/
Skandia Geelong Week (SGW) is the largest sailing regatta in Australia with over 400 yachts competing over the five days. Oceanburo is offering charters to overseas and interstate sailors enabling them to enjoy this fantastic boat and event. Rod Jones Director, fresh from his overall IRC championship win said “I am really glad we have been able to offer an even more competitive charter fee for this fantastic event. We are looking forward to developing the class in Australia and experiencing strict one design class racing, with the added competition that the overseas sailor will bring this is truly set to be an awesome event”.
All the boats are new and are also available for sale after the event. Boats will be available at Geelong Week approximately two days before the start of the event and will include the appropriate public liability insurance required to compete in the event as a minimum.
Grade 1 - Recommended charter fee was $6,000AUD and is now $3,000 AUD due to funding support.
Pre regatta training will also be available from the Oceanburo team to ensure sailors are able to gain maximum performance from these exciting boats.
To find out more information or to book your charter please contact:
Dartsailboats:Tel: +61 (0)3 9016 4151
Email: info@dartsailboats.com http://www.dartsailboats.com/
Oceanburo: Tel: +61 (0)404 094244
Email: kaitimm@oceanburo.com.au http://www.oceanburo.com.au/
About the Laser / Dart SB3
The SB3 is the fastest growing Sportsboat in the world. Fleets are now sailed across the world. Produced by Performance Sailcraft Europe Ltd, the boat is sold under the Laser Brand name in Europe and the USA and under the Dart brand name in Australia and New Zealand.
Glenn Bourke - 3 time World Champion said about the boat:
"In my opinion the SB3 is simply the best small keelboat money can buy. They are good in light airs or a howling blow, they are tactical upwind and down which makes for good racing and, once you launch the masthead spinny then get ready for some blasting downwind action. But what really help set this one design apart from all the others is how easy they are - Easy to find crew, with only three necessary, easy to rig, easy to tow and best of all, easy on the pocket.
Well done!"
For information on the boat visit: http://www.dartsailboats.com/dart-sb3-introduction
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