Top yachts to compete at Docklands

Top rated international yachts will stopover at Waterfront City, Docklands in January for two days of racing as part of an “invitation only” series.

The Docklands Invitational is an annual competition which features Australia’s best racing yachts who will compete in a five race series staged on Port Phillip Bay.

Members of the public will have the opportunity to wander the docks at Waterfront City, talk to visiting crews, try sailing with the “Go Sailing” program, and participate in the Audi One Metre Challenge with radio controlled yachts.

In addition to the big boats, there will also be high impact twilight racing within Victoria Harbour with the King of the Docklands. Competing for one of the richest prizes ever offered in Australian sailing, crews will battle it out in identical SB3 yachts to determine just who is the King of the Docklands.

Spectators will enjoy live commentary explaining the unfolding tactical side of things from a purpose built marquee catered by the Melbourne Yacht Club Hotel. Rivaling cricket’s 20/20, the event is guaranteed to test the skills of competitors who will have to endure fluky winds and a pressure cooker environment.

Docklands Invitational event co-ordinator Doug Jarvis said: “The Docklands program aims to bring sailing into the heart of a major city, allowing the general public to experience sailing first hand in a free environment.”

Activities will commence from 4pm – 8.30pm on both Thursday, January 21 and Friday, January 22. For further information please visit http://www.victoriaweek.com The events form part of Audi Victoria Week, which is Australia’s largest sailing regatta and Victoria’s oldest sporting event.

The six-day program will start in Melbourne with the Docklands Invitational and the King of the Docklands before the fleet of yachts compete in the traditional passage race from Melbourne to Geelong, which is scheduled for Saturday, January 23 and the program will conclude on Australia Day, Tuesday, January 26.

Audi Victoria Week is proudly sponsored by Audi, the Victorian State Government, City of Melbourne and City of Greater Geelong.