Howick Sailing Club recently welcomed 112 sailors from across New Zealand for the 54th Family Boats New Zealand Starling National Championship, held at scenic Howick Beach.
The event was proudly sponsored by Family Boats, Yamaha Marine New Zealand, and Team Marie Raos of Ray White Howick — all longstanding supporters of the club.
Club Commodore Reneta Money described the event as a true test of skill and spirit. “The weather challenged us, with Cyclone Tam’s tail end bringing gusts up to 35 knots on Good Friday and Saturday. Despite this, we managed to complete three races on Good Friday, though Saturday’s racing was abandoned for safety.”
The sailors found solace ashore with a lively Starling Class Association dinner, featuring inspiring talks from Olympic sailors Erica Dawson and Jenny Armstrong. The club also welcomed Brian Peet, author of Des Townsend: A Sailing Legacy, who shared insights about Des Townsend, the Starling’s designer. “It was especially meaningful as Brian won the Starling Nationals the last time Howick hosted the event in 1973,” Money added.
Easter Sunday saw the return of favorable conditions, allowing four races to be completed. “The Easter Bunny even made a surprise visit, leaving Easter eggs on the boats, delighting our young sailors,” Money said. While Monday began with fog and light winds, a midday breeze allowed for further racing, wrapping up what was described as a fabulous regatta despite Mother Nature’s challenges.
The club extended heartfelt thanks to the many volunteers — past and present club members, associated clubs, and local businesses — who made the event possible. “We couldn’t have done it without you!”
Congratulations were extended to all competitors, with special recognition for overall winner Blake McKinnon of Bucklands Beach Yacht Club. Close behind were Oli Stone (Kohimarama Yacht Club) and Callum Hyde (Murrays Bay Sailing Club).
Among female sailors, Lucy Luxford from Charteris Bay Yacht Club was the top-placed girl, finishing 11th overall. She was followed by Charlotte Handley (Murrays Bay Sailing Club) and Kate Howse (Kohimarama Yacht Club) in second and third places respectively.
In the Open Fleet (Silver Flight), local sailor Annabelle Cartwright (Kohimarama Yacht Club) earned first overall and first girl. Sasha White (Kohimarama Yacht Club) took second and second girl, with Lewis Amith (Manly Sailing Club) third. Brooke Cooper (Glendowie Boating Club) was third girl and fifth overall.
The Development Fleet showcased emerging talent, with Will Noyer (Kohimarama Yacht Club) winning top spot. Jessica Lee (Royal Akarana Yacht Club) finished as top girl and second overall, followed by Lucy Eaton (Kohimarama Yacht Club) in third.
