2012 Internationals
2012 Maersk Line Paper Tiger Catamaran International Championships
McCrae Yacht Club, Victoria, Australia
The Victorian PTCA is organising the next Internationals, which will be held over the four days of Easter in 2012 (6th – 9th April). The venue is McCrae Yacht Club, southeast of Melbourne, on Port Phillip Bay. McCrae will be familiar to many Paper Tiger sailors from both Australia and New Zealand, and has a strong history of running national and international championships, including PTs. The club is nestled at the foot of picturesque Arthur‟s Seat, which can influence wind patterns and make for challenging but enjoyable tactical racing. Tidal influences can also be significant, particularly at Easter.
The total fleet of forty boats will comprise the national teams and invited skippers, based on firm criteria of performance in national and state championships. The prospect of selection for their national teams always provides a bit of extra "juice" for AUS and NZL skippers competing for a "top ten" placing at their respective national championships. The Australia vs New Zealand teams challenge is regarded as an important reason for the success of the Paper Tiger class over its four decade history. New Zealand currently holds the teams trophy from their success in Napier in 2010, and the individual champion Ian Marcovitch, from NSW (AUS), will be looking to defend his title.
In the lead up to the event, McCrae YC will also host the Victorian PT State Championship in March 2012. This will be a good shakedown for both the club and skippers hoping to do well at Easter.
Mike Wold
APTCA President
