French Island challenge hits 40 competitors

With just two weeks until the 30th running of the Cowes Yacht Club's famed Around French Island Endurance Race, the event has already surpassed 40 entries.

More than 15 interstate competitors are travelling to Phillip Island, including World, National and State champions.

The race will take place on March 21, starting at 11am. Cowes Yacht Club will once again host a fun and entertaining day for spectators, with the race start always providing a spectacular display on the water.

Thanks to fantastic event partners from the Phillip Island community, race day promises to be a great opportunity to head down to the club and support some of the best sailors in Australia.

Spectators can enjoy a free sausage sizzle and a coffee truck offering a two-for-one deal, generously provided by Red Rocks Golf Course.

There will also be plenty of giveaways, including event merchandise and rounds of golf at Red Rocks Golf Course.

Ocean Reach Brewing returns as the official beer partner and naming rights sponsor of the prestigious "Line Honours" trophy, awarded to the fastest catamaran around French Island.

If wind and conditions are favourable, the winning time could be as quick as three hours, with world-class sailors pushing some of the highest-performance catamarans in the country to their limits.

"Cowes Yacht Club sailors are amazing supporters of Ocean Reach beer, so we couldn't be more excited to return the support and jump onboard this event," said Ocean Reach owner Wayne Bismire.

"Naming the Line Honours trophy is very special. Hopefully this year we see a record for the fastest finish time."

Isola Di Capri is also onboard and will be supplying pizza for 90 competitors, along with their families, friends and Cowes Yacht Club members, at a welcome function at the club.

Cowes Yacht Club Commodore Andrew Janson is thrilled with the partnerships.
"How good is it having these local businesses support this event - the best pizza on Phillip Island and the best beer in Australia. I am super thankful to them," said Andrew.

"Their help will really make this a fantastic event for our competitors, volunteers and the public to enjoy."

Cowes Yacht Club has also seen a record year of membership growth, increasing by 30 per cent following a strong membership campaign. More locals are recognising the value of the club, which is located on arguably the best waterfront site in Cowes.

"Come along, watch the best sailors tackle this incredible race, grab yourself a free snag and a cheap coffee, and explore Cowes Yacht Club to see why so many people are joining," said Andrew.

The race starts off Cowes Yacht Club on March 21, with spectators encouraged to arrive from 10am for the 11am start.

/ Sponsored article /