Seas the Week: Durban's sailors prepare for thrilling regatta

WHILE hooves will fly at the Hollywoodbets Durban July on Saturday, some of the country’s leading sailors are expected to make a splash when they participate in the MSC Week that begins on Monday, offshore from Durban.

Given the unpredictable nature of conditions that can be expected at this regatta, which will run until Friday, the Point Yacht Club (race organisers), have aptly named it: Seas the Week.

Competitors will race in two categories; ORC Class Championships and the L26 National Championships.

With the country's most prestigious yacht race on the horizon (Lipton Challenge Cup, August 25), competitors view the MSC Week as an ideal opportunity to sharpen their seafaring skills.

A fleet of 25 yachts are expected to assemble at the MSC’s 11am start on Monday, including the 13 L26s that will be lining up for their national championship at this event. 

As July is the mid-year holiday season, many school boats will make up the field in the L26 category.

Anna Correa, a crew member on MS Performance Sailing’s L26 Velocity, and matric pupil at Eden College, will be the vessel’s helmsman.

While Correa has featured at the previous two MSC Weeks, this year’s regatta is extra-special for her.

“It will be my first time as a skipper and it is a great privilege to make use of home waters as I get to enhance my local knowledge. I know many of the participants and people involved, so it's overall more fun.” 

Correa took to sailing in her Grade 9 year and has traversed the waters in various parts of the country participating in club and national competitions.

“Sailing has become such a massive part of my life. I've met people and learnt lessons that will forever impact my life. I will always try to keep myself involved in sailing.”

She rates highly each opportunity she’s on the water.

‘Being out in the ocean allows me to take a breath and let go of life’s stressors. It's one of my absolute favourite places to be, a place where I constantly learn to appreciate life and connect with nature in its purest form,” she said.

After each day of sailing, the PYC has organised entertainment for the competing teams.  

For more info visit www.pyc.co.za or follow the yacht club on Facebook or Instagram.

DAILY NEWS