John Cutler, Olympic bronze medallist in the Finn at the Seoul Olympic Games, has been enlisted to coach the Finn sailors. "To have such an accomplished sailor involved in my programme who has previously medalled in the Finn is invaluable," said Murdoch.
Having represented New Zealand in the Laser class at the last two Olympics - he placed fifth in both Beijing and London - Murdoch said the change would take some work.
"The boat really interests me and is great to sail," he said. "There are some things similar to a Laser but a lot of new things to learn which excites me.
"The Finn is a very physically demanding boat so the weight needs to go on in muscle. The weights room in the gym is now my second home."
After six years in the Laser, Junior made the move to the Finn last year, making an impressive debut in the class at 2012 Sail for Gold Regatta, where he placed 19th overall.
"I decided to switch to the Finn almost a year ago. I was out growing the Laser and really liked the challenge of switching over to the Finn," Junior said. "I struggled a little in the stronger breezes at 2012 Sail for Gold, but still managed to have some fantastic races."
Junior predicts some close racing at next month's 2013 Oceanbridge Sail Auckland event from February 2-5. "Karl and I have been training a lot together down here in Wellington and he is going really quick. Andrew is very experienced so no doubt he will be near the sharp end of the fleet also."