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With only one more sleep before the start of the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race, the *Maritimo Katwinchar* stands out with its rich history and impressive restoration. This classic Watney Circa 1904 yacht, owned by Bill Barry-Cotter and skippered by Michael Spies and Peter Vaiciurgis, is ready to make waves in the Double Handed division.
Built in 1904 by the Watney Brewery in England, Maritimo Katwinchar was designed for the now-defunct Rater Rule and enjoyed considerable success sailing around England. The boat's journey took a remarkable turn when it was sailed on its own bottom from England to Australia via the Panama Canal, with three English emigrants onboard. Arriving in Australia, the boat made its debut in the Sydney to Hobart race shortly after, with officials convincing the crew to participate. At that time, they were required to have a sail number, leading to the issuance of CYC8 by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA) in 1958—a number that was graciously restored to the boat during its recent refurbishment.
The vessel later found a new chapter when it was purchased by Bill Barry-Cotter’s late father, Frank, in the 1950s. It became the Barry-Cotter family's cherished boat in Pittwater for a decade. After a period out of the spotlight, Maritimo Katwinchar was rediscovered in 2016, undergoing a comprehensive restoration that included replacing rotting timbers and updating technology to accommodate modern sailing standards.
The restored Maritimo Katwinchar made a notable appearance in the 75th Rolex Sydney Hobart race in 2019, where it won its division and led the race overall for a time. With its recent transition to two-handed racing, the boat has been adapted to a more streamlined setup, including the removal of the mizzenmast and a switch to tiller steering.
As Spies and Vaiciurgis prepare for the upcoming race, they are aiming high despite the boat's age. With the forecast predicting a mix of light winds and strong breezes, their strategy is to place well in Division A and compete effectively against a competitive fleet. While the expectations are set high, they are focused on maximizing the boat’s performance and enjoying the challenge ahead.
Maritimo Katwinchar’s storied past and recent upgrades set the stage for an exciting race, showcasing the blend of heritage and modern racing spirit as it competes in the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race.
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