The Great Veterans Race, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia’s annual tribute to those classic Sydney Hobart Yacht Race yachts that sailed south in the 1940s, 1950s, 1960 and 1970s, will be held on Sunday 26 April 2009.

The Great Veterans Race is open for entry to yachts that competed in a Sydney Hobart Race and are over 30 years of age. The race is a non-spinnaker race, sailed in a relaxed atmosphere, around the harbour.

The CYCA is now seeking entries from owners of eligible yachts to compete in this year’s race for the historic Westward Trophy to join the regular competitors on the opening day of the Audi Winter Series on Sydney Harbour.

“The Great Veterans Race is a wonderful gathering on the water – and later back at the CYCA – of these fine old boats that contested those early races to Hobart,” CYCA sailing office’s Roger Wragby said today. 

Owners interested in entering the Great Veterans Race should contact Roger Wragby in the CYCA Sailing Office on 02 8292 7800 or by email sailingoffice@cyca.com.au

The Audi Winter Series opening day on Sunday 26 April, also includes the Ladies Day Race. The Ladies Day Race will be part of the Freedom from MS Regatta, which aims to raise awareness of MS and research funds. Yacht owners are encouraged to allow 2-5 participants onboard for the race. Visit www.msregatta.org.au or download the entry form and information. 

The Audi Winter Series pointscore starts the following Sunday 3 May, with 11 pointscore races for eight spinnaker, two non-spinnaker and a Sydney 38OD division.  The notice of race and entry form can be accessed online.