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People You Meet at SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week
29 August – 4 September 2024
Experience two delightful days of sailing at the SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week 2024, where the fleet at Townsville Yacht Club (TYC) showcases a diverse mix of Olympians, champions, regulars, internationals, newcomers, and club sailors.
Two-time Olympian Nicky Bethwaite is participating in her first Race Week aboard 51st Project, a Beneteau First 50 owned by Julian Bell from Newcastle. “I’m enjoying it. It’s beautiful sailing, and we saw fish jumping today,” the NSW sailor remarked after a day of fun sailing with her crew. “It’s very social here – it’s great having a regatta in a smaller area,” she added while enjoying post-race drinks.
Bethwaite noted that the sea breeze was ideal, and the course was approximately two and a half times longer than the previous day’s, yet they finished earlier due to the consistent conditions. Both Bethwaite and Karyn Gojnich made history as the first women to represent Australia in sailing, first competing at the 1988 Olympics in the 470 Women’s class. Bethwaite’s journey continued through 2004 in the Yngling class, though an unfortunate biking accident halted her quest for a third Olympic appearance.
Nowadays, Bethwaite spends her leisure time sailing and playing golf. Her brothers also share the sailing gene; her older brother Mark is an Olympian, and younger brother Julian is a successful sailor and boat designer, notably known for designing the Olympic class 49er and its junior version, the 29er. Julian is competing at Magnetic Island with his self-designed 89er sports boat, Don’t Panic, alongside dual Olympian Christine Bridge, who has had a decorated sailing career representing Australia in the Europe class at the 1992 and 1996 Olympics. Today, she is an accomplished ILCA 6 sailor still winning at Masters events.
David Slingsby, father of America’s Cup helmsman Tom Slingsby, competes aboard Mac 2. He and his crew have shown remarkable competitiveness, winning the first two races of the week. David has a rich ocean racing history, having sailed on many renowned yachts before his son gained fame as an Olympic gold medalist and world champion.
Wendy Tuck, recognized as the first woman to win a round-the-world race, is also taking part in the festivities by skimming the waves aboard the Lyons 54, Making Waves Kayle. After leading the Clipper yacht ‘Sanya Serenity Coast’ to victory in the 2018 Clipper Round the World Race, Tuck is committed to furthering the mission of the Making Waves Foundation, which supports young Australians living with disabilities. She sails at major events alongside fellow supporters Kathy Veel and Bridget Canham, both of whom have noteworthy sailing accomplishments, including being part of the only all-female crew in the Two-Handed division of the Rolex Sydney Hobart race.
Kathy Veel fondly remembers racing on her Currawong 30, Currawong, in the 2022 and 2023 Hobart races, and has received tremendous support from the Townsville Yacht Club throughout her sailing journey. “This is my first Maggie,” Veel expressed with enthusiasm. “I love it. I’ve never danced so much in my life! Race Week resonates with a wonderful sense of community among sailors. It’s a beautiful location, and the social activities are fantastic. The mixed-class racing is also commendable.” The trio participates proudly under the Making Waves Foundation banner.
Colin and Denise Wilson, frequent attendees, appreciate the unique atmosphere of the event. “What makes Maggie Island special for us is that everyone gathers together after racing, whether at the marina or ashore,” Colin shared. “The Father’s Day celebrations are excellent, with different entertainment each year provided by the Townsville Yacht Club.” They enjoy spending time in the picturesque Picnic Bay.
The event also attracts local TYC sailors like Akarana (Vicki Hamilton), Brava (Tony and Selena Muller), Salacia (Owen Day), Soul Sister (Donna Heath), and Warragal (James Finch). Mike Steel, Commodore of TYC and long-serving Event Chairman of SMIRW, is one of the competitors this year, skipping the recently acquired Elan E5, Boudica. Steel mentions the diverse assortment of participants and boats draws people to this annual event at Peppers Race Headquarters, emphasizing that “people need to unwind, and Maggie is the perfect getaway.” He notes how the regatta has evolved since its inception, bringing attention to a destination that was once virtually undiscovered.
Steel’s investment in the island extends beyond sailing; he shares the story of Victorian James Permezel, who established a microbrewery, Maggie Island Brewery, in scenic Picnic Bay, signaling the community’s growth and its popularity among competitors. “It’s come a long way over those 17 years,” Steel concludes, reflecting on the event’s journey.
As Steel embarks on a new chapter in life following retirement, he looks forward to family cruising and incorporating his dog into sailing adventures. The SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week celebrates camaraderie among sailors from all walks of life, filled with racing, social activities, and memorable experiences that continue to draw attention and admiration year after year. The event was fully booked in just minutes, illustrating the growing enthusiasm surrounding it.
For more information and complete results, visit www.magneticislandraceweek.com.au.
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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.
