Tidelines: Innovation awards

Marine-industry innovators will again be rewarded at the Hutchwilco New Zealand Boat Show on May 31.

Industry New Zealand and the show organisers will be presenting three awards, for world-class innovation, commitment to innovation and innovative design.

At the 2002 show two Industry New Zealand awards were made. A third has been added to better recognise the wide range of innovation in the marine sector. The nine Boat of the Show awards will be announced at the same function. The show runs from May 29 to June 2.

Pressing on

Solo sailor Chris Sayer is making good progress with his preparation of the 2003 Mini-Transat. He says sail development is going well and the sea trials have been excellent. Sayer's second attempt to win the ocean classic was sidetracked in May last year when his new boat hit something hard on the way back from Sydney and sank. The replacement 21-footer is a step up and fulfilling all expectations.

Water-Watch

It is all cruise mode for organised sailing this Easter weekend. Ponsonby Cruising Club is continuing the Lindauer races and the Westhaven Yacht Club has Race 6 in the Old Fox series. Members keen to join the pack today can get the destination by calling 027 296 2542. Devonport has the Easter cruise to Ponui and Weiti members cruise to Man-o-War.

Other activity: Saturday: Single-handed race to Rangitoto (DYC).

Saturday and Sunday: Sunburst nationals continue at Wakatare (WBC); 3.7 nationals at Takapuna (TBC).

* Clubs and organisations planning activity on the Waitemata or Manukau Harbour should register with the Auckland Regional Council Enviroline on (09) 366 2070.

*Editorial inquiries to Robin Bailey (09) 524-4572, email rbailey@ihug.co.nz