Grassroots in great shape

Any yachtie visiting New Zealand in recent months (assuming he/she managed to slip past Covid’s travel stranglehold) might have assumed that sailing here was solely about ultra-sophisticated America’s Cup foiling monohulls and very expensive superyachts.

The truth, of course, is that while these exotic vessels are knitted into the rich fabric of sailing in this country, they sit at the apex of a pyramid with a very broad base. One that comprises thousands of dinghy sailors, all plying their trade with as much passion and competitiveness as the big guns.

So it’s worth chewing over a little context and perspective: the big guns have only arrived at the apex because they were lucky enough to have been nurtured at dinghy nurseries operated by scores of clubs scattered throughout the country. The path to sailing greatness often has very humble origins – particularly, I think, in New Zealand.

Despite the distractions of the digital age, grassroots sailing in New Zealand is in good health. I am always struck by the scale of the dinghy activity on the beaches near my home – on any given Sunday, in any weather. Mums and dads in stoic attendance.

A vibrant reinforcement of these musings was evident at Auckland’s Kohimarama Yacht Club in April as this issue was being wrestled out the door to the printer. The facility was hosting the Barfoot & Thompson

Starling Nationals – no easy task given that it attracted 106 entrants. Witnessing the fleet crowding the lengthy start line – well, you just know there’s going to be plenty of intriguing racing.

It’s also worth considering that this year’s event was the 50th anniversary of the Starling Nationals. Despite the availability of far more high-tech/high-performance dinghies, the Starling has endured and prospered, honing the skills of thousands of sailors over the years – many going on to greatness at the apex of world sailing.

Somewhere, Des Townson is smiling.

Happy boating.