Exciting Racing and Strong Camaraderie at the 2024 Hamilton Island Race Week
Exciting Racing and Camaraderie Awaits at the 2024 Hamilton Island Race Week
Hamilton Island Race Week consistently offers thrilling experiences, and the latest Nautilus Marine Insurance Classic races delivered an exhilarating day of competition.
As a proud partner of Hamilton Island Race Week, Nautilus Marine Insurance celebrated the 39th edition of this prestigious regatta. The event kicked off with the Nautilus Marine Insurance Yacht Owners and Skippers Cocktail Party, attracting 164 vessels to the picturesque racecourses of the Whitsundays. Spanning six days, this year’s racing featured the highly anticipated Nautilus Marine Insurance Classic Long Race and Medium Race on Tuesday, where competitor skill and strategy were put to the test.
The standout winner of the IRC Rating Division Gold in the Nautilus Marine Classic Long Race was the Reichel Pugh 66 “Alive,” representing the Derwent Sailing Club in Tasmania. Justin Ferris, the tactician for “Alive,” described the day as phenomenal, noting, “We were never more than four boat lengths away from Wild Oats X. We were bedding in some new crew, preparing for the future, and they worked extremely hard. They all enjoyed themselves, especially with the result.”
The Reichel Pugh 52 “Virago,” having traveled from Sydney by road, was ready for the exciting week ahead. Tactician Andrew Parkes, a seasoned participant in Hamilton Island Race Week, emphasized the tactical nature of the races, stating, “The islands and the tides make it quite tactical, and the scenery makes it an absolute pleasure. This year, we had light conditions, but we got some pressure towards the end of the week.”
Another competitor, “Toybox 2,” commanded by Ian Box, took third place in its division after an enjoyable week of racing. Ian fondly recalled his initial experience at Hamilton Island Race Week back in 1998 and described this year’s event as a fantastic time for the entire team, which included 20 members.
Mark Richards, skipper of “Wild Oats X,” which secured second place in the Nautilus Marine Classic Long Race, expressed gratitude for the longstanding tradition of the regatta. “For the regatta to be in its 39th year is testament to the event. I also want to thank Nautilus Marine Insurance for their amazing support.”
Lyndon Turner, CEO of Nautilus Marine Insurance, attended the regatta to show support for the sailing community. He remarked, “The 2024 Hamilton Island Race Week was a resounding success, and many of our Nautilus Marine Insurance customers participated this year. I would like to pay tribute to the organising committee and the Hamilton Island team. This is our third year of partnering with Race Week, and I know how much work goes into ensuring the week is a success both on and off the water.”
Following this exciting event, Nautilus Marine Insurance will continue its support of North Queensland racing as a proud partner of SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week, taking place from August 29 to September 4. This year marks the 17th edition of the beloved regatta hosted by the Townsville Yacht Club, known for its unique atmosphere and as a fantastic conclusion to the Queensland regatta circuit.
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Sarah Mitchell, an experienced sailor and marine journalist from Sydney, has nurtured a love for the ocean throughout her life. After earning a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Sydney, Sarah quickly made a name for herself with her compelling and vivid storytelling. Her work captures the thrill of sailing and the unique culture of maritime life, making her a respected figure in the sailing community. Outside of writing, Sarah spends her time exploring Australia’s stunning coastlines and competing in local regattas, always on the lookout for her next great adventure.