Championship
p. 11 · Read in the full issue
Fiji's Bid for Yacht
O-Vaka Launched
THE 18 ft. yacht, O-Vaka (Flying- Cloud) which will represent Fiji in the international championship races at Auckland this month and next, was launched by Lady Freeston, wife of Fiji’s Governor, at the Suva Yacht Club’s head quarters on December 17.
O-Vaka was designed and built by Mr.
Alex Bentley, of Suva, who is responsible for many of the graceful yachts on Suva Harbour. Mr. Bentley will also sail her in the championship races in Auckland.
He will have a crew of six.
The yacht is made of kauri with a 32 ft. oregon pine mast. The sails were made locally by W. E. McGowan Ltd., and all fittings, including special gadgets designed by Mr. Bentley, were also made in Fiji.
Lady Freeston christened the yacht by pouring a tanoa of kava over her bows and wishing her luck.
O-Vaka was shipped from Suva to Auckland on Aorangi in early January.
Captain and crew have been spending the time since their arrival in learning some thing of the currents, winds and tides of Auckland harbour. They are confident that their yacht will give a good account of herself.