A Decade Of Hydromatic Relaxation

Ten years ago I had the idea to start an event that would celebrate antique and classic boats - I had no idea how the show would develop and change, but what I did know was that Lake Rotoiti was a very special venue for this event, and that the interest in classic boats was very real and had the potential to grow.

Ten years has zoomed by it seems, and the show has grown to such an extent that it certainly has it's own momentum, and seems to be spawning look-alikes all around the country. I was looking at some of the images from the first show in 2000 and I couldn't believe how much parking space was left, how the boats looked few and far between (35 registrations) and how much darker my hair looked. 

Glenn Common and I joined Steve Thomas and crew aboard the historic launch, Seabird, to compete the Rudder Cup in Auckland last week.  Seabird was built by James Reid in Auckland in 1908 and competed and won line honours in the first Rudder Cup raced from Auckland to Sail Rock (near Whangarei Heads) and back.  This was only the second time this race had ever been run - Seabird again won line honours, this time for boats built before 1918.   What an experience - moonlit night, great views and a very memorable trip.  I couldn't help reflecting on the original crew and how they must have felt during the race a hundred years ago, we really could feel their presence on the boat - it was quite an emotional experience.  Indeed it is that human touch to classic boating that makes it such an absorbing pastime - the boats will remain but their owners are transitory - like the show - the memories of the last ten years are strong but as time goes by they begin to fade - but the boats will remain due to the passion and dedication of all of you.  It is quite sobering to think that these old boats will probably outlive us all - let's enjoy them while we can.

 
I thank you all for helping to create the NZ Antique and Classic Boatshow - I look forward to seeing you and your boat at the tenth anniversary show - the show has created a very special legacy in which we can all partake.

 
Cheers and have a very merry xmas and a happy new year, and see you in March.

Pete Rainey

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