The HSBC Coastal Classic is New Zealand's biggest yacht race; a 119nm sprint up the coast between the wharves of Devonport in Auckland, and Russell in the Bay of Islands.

Around 250 boats take part each year and the regatta is well known for hosting the Sailing Party of the Year.

The HSBC Coastal Classic takes place every year on the Friday before Labour Weekend.

THE GREAT RACE NORTH
THE DATE: Friday 19 October 2007
THE COURSE: 119nm from Devonport Wharf to Russell Wharf
THE AUTHORITY: The New Zealand Multihull Yacht Club
THE SPONSOR: HSBC, the world’s local bank
THE FLEET: Up to 300 of our greatest race yachts
CURRENT MULTIHULL RECORD: 7h20.51 set by Split Enz in 1996
CURRENT MONOHULL RECORD: 8h29.50 set by Zana Konica Minolta in 2005
More information: www.coastalclassic.co.nz