December’s 49er, 49erFX and Nacra 17 world championships are expected to dish up some spectacular racing and fans are invited to venture to Auckland to experience some of the action.
As many as 400 sailors are expected to compete at the world championships at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club from November 29-December 8.
Most of the top teams will be competing, given world titles and Olympic qualification are on the line, and many countries will also be using it as an Olympic selection event. Olympic champions Peter Burling and Blair Tuke will be looking to win their fifth world title and first since returning to the class after a two-year break and the Nacra 17 fleet will be looking to knock Ruggero Tita and Caterina Banti off their perch after the Italians dominated the class in 2018.
There will be spectator boats for anyone wanting to get close to the racing while big screens will also be operating at the fanzone at the event venue.
“We have spent so many hours training on the Waitemata Harbour over the last 10 years, so to have a world championship here is super-exciting,” Tuke said. “We are really looking forward to welcoming the world and giving Kiwis an upclose look at Olympic sailing at the highest level.”
Situated only 10 minutes drive from the heart of Auckland’s central business district, this new marine precinct will become the event village. This will include the boatpark, yacht club, competitors’ hub, and fanzone for supporters from around the world and local audiences.
After a day on the water, in no time at all you can be lazing on the white sands of Mission Bay indulging in ice cream or fish & chips, cycling your way along Tamaki Drive – a picturesque waterfront promenade – dining in one of Auckland’s many food precincts or relaxing back at your accommodation.
Auckland is a sophisticated international city, with a world-class food and beverage industry as well as the other exciting attributes which make up a thriving and diverse city.
December is a good time to explore Auckland beyond the boat park, with a host of sights and activities including many on the Hauraki Gulf itself like the Auckland Whale and Dolphin Safari, America’s Cup yacht experience or the Maritime Musuem.
Some might like to discover a little more of what New Zealand has to offer before or after the world championships with a trip to somewhere like the Bay of Plenty, Taupo, Fiordland or Northland.
See here for more on Auckland or here to help you with some ideas or visit here for information on New Zealand.
The notice of race for the world championships has been released and entries will open soon.
