Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race 2024

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2023
Michael Smith from Tempo chats Noakes

Michael Smith from Tempo chats Noakes

NEWS
30 Jul, 2023 01:07:00 PM

Michael Smith from Tempo chats Noakes

On the docks on Saturday morning at The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, we caught up with owner Michael Smith from Super 40 Tempo, just to ask about his preparation for the 2023 Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race.

Representing the Middle Harbour Yacht Club in IRC Division 1, Tempo is a boat that is looking highly competitive for this race.

At the time of writing Tempo is placed at number 16 but with sailors like navigator Steve Taylor on board they could have a good chance of placing very well.

The boat preparation has been “really good” according to owner Michael Smith.

“We put a lot in, we have updated a few things, so we are happy with where we are at,” Smith said eyeing the boat confidently over his shoulder.

When asked how the crew were performing as a group he was also quietly assured.

“We did the LGT Crestone Winter Series Division II and came first, and we are pretty happy with our result,” he said.

“We are feeling competitive. Let’s just say we will do our best. Steve is the man downstairs at the nav table – he is at work already down there!” said Smith not wanting to pull Taylor from his post just 30 minutes before the boats were to head for the starting line.

When asked about whether he had done the race before and had any thought Smith was tight-lipped. “We won’t give anything away,” he said moving on quickly to describe onboard sustenance.

Not new to the race, Tempo said they were looking forward the journey north.

“it’s just an interesting coastal race – interesting tactically - yeah. And we want to have fun, it’s a fun race.”

While we ended our chat on a light note, the competitive spirit in the crew was palpable at the start line.