Largest Hobie 16 World Championship, ever

A record number of entrants will be on hand for the world’s largest Hobie 16 World Championships, held Jan. 31-Feb. 15, 2014 at Jervis Bay, New South Wales in Australia. More than 365 teams, comprising almost 500 competitors from 27 countries will battle it out in three (3) world championship disciplines: Women’s, Youth, Open with two (2) additional disciplines Masters Cup and Grand Masters Cup.

“This is great news for our community, and we look forward to welcoming the competitors and visitors to our beautiful region for the 20th Hobie 16 World Championships,” said class member for the South Coast, Shirley Hancock. “With previous World Championships hosted in Canada, Mexico, New Caledonia, South Africa, Spain, United Arab Emirates and The Virgin Islands, Jervis Bay is in good company hosting this truly global event.”

Steve Fields Managing Director of Hobie Cat Australasia said: “These are fantastic numbers. With the consistent winds making Jervis Bay one of the world’s top 5 sailing locations, add to that kangaroos and the natural beauty of the Shoalhaven region as well as the whole Aussie small town experience, it’s no wonder we’re looking at being the Worlds largest Hobie 16® World Championships!”

“Destination NSW estimates the event will deliver an economic impact of close to $3.4 million. In addition, around 60 of the Hobie 16 Catamarans have been built locally in Jervis Bay, injecting in excess of $750,000 into the local economy before the event even begins,” Mr Souris said.

Destination NSW CEO, Sandra Chipchase said: “The Hobie 16 World Championships will attract local and international visitors and provide the perfect opportunity to showcase the natural beauty and pristine waters of the Shoalhaven area. As the pinnacle competition for this catamaran class in the world, we are thrilled to be hosting it in NSW.”

For more information, please visit: hobieworlds.com or visitnsw.com

Source: David Brookes, Executive Director, International Hobie Class