BRISBANE TO GLADSTONE RACE HISTORY HONOURED.

by Ian Grant on 31 Jan 2001 The Brisbane-Gladstone Yacht Race, Queensland's premier blue water classic, has been selected as the feature aquatic sport event for The Centenary Of Federation celebrations in Queensland.

This popular 308 nautical mile ocean classic steeped in individual history will carry official Celebration Of Our Nation recognition with this year's 53rd race between both ports during the Easter holiday weekend

In many ways our national heritage is uniquely bonded with sailing and the maritime activities associated with the development of this sporting icon and the 100th birthday celebrations of our proud nation.

National pride will be a dominating theme when the thriving commercial ports of Brisbane and Gladstone join in the party mode for the special historical occasion.

As expected Flag Officers and members of the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club who have been responsible for hosting the classic race for the past 52 years realise the significant honour which has been granted to the event his year.

They are also proud of their role in promoting the sport of ocean racing and the unique history associated with the internationally famed classic.

Former Commodore, Race Director and popular Life Member Herb Prendergast enthusiastically expressed his appreciation. 'It's a major milestone for the Brisbane-Gladstone race, the sport of ocean racing and the Queensland Cruising Yacht Club'. He said.

This year's race will also record another remarkable entry in the racing log of the majestic ketch Laurabada when her second generation family skipper Doctor Ivan Holm sets her compass course for Gladstone for the 49th time.

No other yacht in the history of the sport can equal this amazing feat that started as a father's dream to become his devoted son's legacy.

There are no parallels to this legendary story, born from passion and determination to build a yacht on a strict 'Shoe-string' budget and sail on in the same event almost half a century later, with a record of continuity that is unequalled in the World of ocean racing.

Laurabada, which has sailed over 200,000 nautical miles, represents the real spirit of a family who are devoted to maintaining an unmatched love of the sport.

Her designer and builder the late Ivan Holm Sen. proudly stood watch at the helm for 43 consecutive Gladstone races simply to enjoy the fellowship of being at sea with his crew.

This tradition will continue to be respected when the legendary Laurabada sets sail on Good Friday morning for her 49th race.

As usual there will be the special 'toddy' of ships rum stowed in the liquor locker to toast another major milestone in her remarkable career and jointly celebrate the Centenary of Federation as she sails on her predicted rhumbline to Gladstone.

By Ian Grant.