Dear Sailors,

May I express my apologies for my inability to attend this years Hobie National Championships at Somers Yacht Club, Victoria.
I would like to thank Peter Manley, a former National Hobie Measurer, for volunteering his time to fill in for me.

As Hobie Racing leaps into 2018, its 50th year, I’d like to congratulate all Hobie sailors around the world on maintaining the continued strength of our strong One Design Classes.
From the first Hobie Regatta on July 4th, 1968 on a Sandy Beach in California, the Hobie Classes have maintained their popularity by allowing only the skill of the sailor to influence race positions.

It is the responsibility all skippers to ensure their Hobie conforms to our strict One Design Class Rules.
The National Committee, in conjunction with the National Measurer, will be making random equipment inspections of all boats. Also random crew weighing during the championship to ensure crews maintain above minimum crew weight when racing on the water.

All competitors must comply with the directions of the officials

I will draw your attention especially to Hobie General Class Rules: 1, 2 and 4, the individual Class Rules, and the Notice of Race 10.2.

Western Port is an excellent very challenging location for very competitive open water sailing.
Fair winds and especially fair sailing to all Australian and International competitors in all the Hobie Cat one design classes competing.
I look forward to congratulating this year’s Hobie Australian Champions.
Best Regards

Kevin Winchester
Measurer
Australian National Hobie Cat Association
Thursday, 21 December 2017