Three notably distinctive performers stole the limelight at the New Zealand leg of the SailGP series last weekend, yet not one of them was a world-class sailor. Instead, they were members of an endangered species of Hector’s dolphins, whose unexpected presence on the racecourse of Lyttelton Harbor led to a pronounced cancellation of the day’s much-anticipated competitions.
Lyttelton Harbor, situated on the outskirts of Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island, nurtures a significant number of Hector’s dolphins – approximately 1,000 of the surviving 10,000 individuals. The unexpected sight of these native aquatic creatures flitting joyfully around the race area sprouted an unforeseen issue. The established event rules stated that races couldn’t proceed when dolphins were spotted splashing near the racecourse, leading to a predicament for the day’s events.
Observant eyes behind binoculars were assigned specifically to watch for any signs of the playful mammals and to alert event organizers if the creatures ventured too close to the action. An official update on the SailGP racing website confirmed the cancellation of the first race day, citing the lengthy observation of the dolphins around the designated racing lanes throughout the scheduled window of time.
The ten competing teams showed abundance of patience on Saturday. Waiting for about an hour and a half, they gave the dolphins wide berth. Unfortunately, the time spent waiting ate significant daylight, leaving not enough time to fit in even a single contest.
Three fleet races were initially lined up for Saturday, with an additional two set for Sunday, forming a prelude to the final event where the top three teams would be battling for the championship.
The SailGP’s official website released another statement, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding the marine ecosystem. The event organizers expressed their heartfelt dedication to minimize any risks to the aquatic environment and wildlife. They assured that comprehensive protocols, developed meticulously in line with local authorities and experts, intend to avoid unwanted interactions with local wildlife.
The future of the SailGP series, nestled within the spectacular backdrop of Lyttelton Harbour, isn’t promising. Russell Coutts, SailGP chief executive and New Zealand native, hinted that due to activist interventions, this venue would be scratched off from potential locations for future events. Coutts criticism was a nod towards conservationists who objected to the decision to conduct races in the delicate habitat of Hector’s dolphins. Coutts expressed disappointment, stating that due to conflicts with the international calendar, the SailGP event might never return to Lyttelton.
Despite the inconvenience and missed races on Saturday, most sailors took the unexpected interlude in stride. In an interview, New Zealand wing trimmer Blair Tuke voiced solid support for the cause of the delay, stating earnestly, “We don’t want to be racing if there are mammals on the course.”
The SailGP series, currently in its fourth year, is an international event where ten national teams compete using high-tech F50 foiling catamarans whose speeds surpass a thrilling 50 knots. A thrilling three regattas in Bermuda, Halifax, and New York await after the Christchurch round.
Points earned in each event contribute to the series standings with the top team earning ten points and the following teams earning points in descending order. The teams will converge in San Francisco in July for the final race, where the first place winner is crowned event champion. As for now, Australia leads with 66 points, trailed by New Zealand at 58 and Canada at 52, a sure premonition of high-paced action and fierce contests on the shimmering horizon.
