Mistral Class

An Update...

The Mistral was designed by local yacht designer Des Townson who also designed the Starling.  They are a classic class for two handed sailing with a mainsail, jib and spinnaker. Renowned for their good looks and sparkling performance, especially on a reach with the kite up. Perfect for parent/child, 2 adults or 2 teenagers to sail them.
 
We have had a great summer of Mistral sailing at GBC. What weather we have had! We have seen some fantastic crew combinations in the yachts which is exactly what we had hoped would happen with the evolution of the class at GBC. Dads with daughters, and sons. Two up, three up. Two Dads together, Dads on their own (always entertaining). Teenagers together. What a mix. Absolutely fantastic. All we need now is to get some Mothers out there as well. The way things are shaping up there could be some fathers left on the deck on a more regular basis, having been given the elbow by the teenagers wanting to take over the boats. To be fare this is a progression that we all encourage to help the younger ones grow and develop their sailing skills and experiences.
 
GBC had good representation at the Mistral Nationals held at Tamaki Yacht Club over the weekend of 23rd and 24th March with 6 boats attending. A good fleet of 25 yachts started the regatta. Congratulations to Mystique #5 from GBC, taking out second overall. Skippered by Henry Haslett on day one, with a second in the first race with his crew Jordan Stevenson. Great to see such good results from such a young duo. Day two saw regular skipper Jon Bilger back on the helm with Henry back as forward hand. On Handicap, Craig, Jack & Lucy Floyd were 1st with Shaun & Matt Connelly in second. A fantastic weekend was had with lots of great racing and camaraderie. I for one am looking forward to next years Nationals already.
 
We plan to do some more adventures in the Mistrals over Winter as we did last year. One a month if we can plan it around the tides. Keep an eye on the website for the upcoming dates. 
 
For more information about the Mistral Class see www.mistral.org.nz

For information about Mistrals at GBC please contact
Craig Floyd on 021 394 544 or email cmlj@xtra.co.nz

Storage for Mistrals is now available at the club. Contact Stu Devine stu@ppw.co.nz

Keep checking the website for updates as well.

Sunday Mistral Sailing
Winter 2013


Keep an eye on this page for updates.