On Monday the 18th July, the Darwin City Council hosted a Cocktail Party, for the Launch of the Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race & Rally 2011. Alderman Garry Lambert hosted the function and welcomed the distinguished guests from the Indonesian Consulate, Acting Consul Muhamid Hafiz and Vice Consul Avinanto Soeriaatmadja, skippers and crew. Garry spoke of the pride that the Darwin City had with the Sister City program being involved in this event, Gary wished all the participants well for the race. Gary also mentioned that he was looking forward to meeting everyone again in Ambon for the presentation night.
Rick Setter, Chairman of the Race Committee, replied on behalf of the yachties and thanked the Council for their work through the Sister City Program, their support, and for hosting this function. Rick also thanked the Consulate for their assistance with the race. Rick then presented Garry with a Darwin to Ambon Yacht Race & Rally 2011 official race shirt.
With formalities out of the way the yachties continued getting to know their opposition. Surprisingly a frequent topic from most yachts seemed to be how un-racing their yacht is. I guess the bravado won’t come until the handicapper has declared his findings. With all the interstate and overseas entrants having arrived over the last few weeks the fleet is proving to be a lively bunch which bodes well for a good race and a great time in Ambon and sailing through Indonesia.
