Since being launched last December, Norla has had moderate racing successes in the hands of the previous owners, T and M Halvorsen, her best race being the Trans-Tasman event which she won. She is now owned by John Howie and will be racing to Hobart with the regular Halvorsen crew and can be counted on to give an honest account of herself. Since last year, the sail plan has been modified to help rating, but critics now reckon she needs a blow to give of her best. If appearance means anything she must have a great show.