Sailing: Work on champs began four years ago

EXCITING TIMES: Napier Sailing Club commodore Paul Redman has every right to be excited about the hosting of the world champs. PHOTO/FILE

Napier Sailing Club commodore Paul Redman described the hosting of the 21st Flying Fifteen World Championship as the culmination of four years of work.

"It was four years ago when Graeme [event convener and long-time class competitor Robinson] came to the club and suggested we should host it. We thought about it for a minute-and-a-half and we said let's do it," Redman told a crowd of 140 at the opening ceremony for the Lexus of Hawke's Bay-sponsored champs at the club last night.

"We're excited to be hosting the worlds and the nationals. We're proud of our city and we consider the sailing club to be a big part of the city. It's sailing time ... let the fun begin."

Robinson told the function he was overwhelmed by the effort the 45 crews have made to get to Napier.

Nine crews from Great Britain, 20 from Aussie, three from Hong Kong, one from Canada and at least 11 Kiwi crews will be in action during the seven-race nationals, which begin today and continue until Friday, and the nine-race worlds, which begin on Sunday and continue until next Friday.

Among the Great Britain contingent will be helmsman Jeremy Davy and crew Martin Huett, who finished second at the 2015 world champs in France.

Six years ago Robinson raced at the Great Britain-hosted world champs with clubmate David Zorn who he will team up with again during the next 10 days.

Napier mayor Bill Dalton urged the international visitors to enjoy the city.

"Enjoy it so much you want to come back."

Napier MP Stuart Nash, a former club member, pointed out his father was a Flying Fifteen class sailor for many years.

"To dad sailing was about his friends."

Lexus of Hawke's Bay CEO Angus Helmore said the event aligns well with his organisation.

"It is about innovation, excellence through working together and supporting the Napier Sailing Club, which plays a big part in the local community."

Ngati Kahungunu kaumatua Tom Mulligan opened the ceremony with a traditional Maori welcome and blessed the champs.