Two of the more than 220 crews competing at Hamilton Island Race Week this month can claim a spectacular prize and trophy without participating in a race.

All they need do is apply some creative thinking to theming themselves and their yacht then be judged as the winner of one of the two categories of the highly popular Prix d’Elegance, a fun pre-race event scheduled for Thursday, August 23.

Hamilton Island’s luxury retreat, qualia, is providing the magnificent prizes for the owners of the winning yachts in each category – an unforgettable two-night weekend escape for two.

Also, there will be special trophies awarded to the two category winners.

The Prix d’Elegance, or in some cases the not so elegant, is a contest that has been an integral part of Hamilton Island Race Week since 2007. The concept makes it an entertaining challenge for the crews while providing considerable entertainment for the spectators gathered on the flag deck at Hamilton Island Yacht Club.

There are two categories in the Prix d’Elegance:

THE BEST-PRESENTED YACHT: The yacht is perfectly presented and the crew in matching uniforms lining the deck etc. Yachts can be subtly themed … and remember, don’t have your fenders dangling over the side. THE BEST-THEMED YACHT: We have had political satire, tropical island settings, bubble baths, a wedding and even Michael Jackson as themes for this section.

Judging will take place off Hamilton Island Yacht Club’s flag deck (where the judges will be located) between 0930hrs and 1030hrs. The timing is scheduled so all crews have ample opportunity to be judged then return to their dock if necessary, get back into racing mode and reach their respective start lines in time for racing that day.

“The Prix d’Elegance is a wonderful tradition at Hamilton Island Race Week that everyone enjoys,” said the regatta’s race director Denis Thompson. “We are amazed each year by the length to which the crews go to in their endeavours to be declared the winners of what is a highly entertaining event.”

Each category winner will be presented with their trophy and prizes at Race Week’s gala prize-giving dinner on Saturday, August 25.

The 35^th edition of Hamilton Island Race Week will be staged from August 18-25.

All information relating to the regatta is on the website: www.hamiltonislandraceweek.com.au

For additional information please contact:

Lisa Ratcliff