On Saturday March 2, there was uncertainty early on, but any doubts about whether the forecast nor-easter would eventuate were put to bed, when on cue, the breeze arrived just past the scheduled start time and then built to provide excellent conditions for sailing.

Nathan had a good day out in Div 1, as did Wayne in Div 2, each scoring two wins from as many races.

Results have now been updated.

Div 1 

Race 1: Nathan Stanton, Brian Linnet, Bob Eggins.

Race 2: Nathan Stanton, Bob Eggins, Brian Linnet.

Div 2

Race 1: Wayne Culph, Hariet Woodrow, Hamish Robertson. Race 2: Wayne Culph, Rick Chalmers, Mark Mulligan.

Successful Annual Regatta

Rain in the preceding days and the forecast of light winds wasn’t enough to deter a 60 strong fleet from participating in this year’s annual regatta. By mid-day on Saturday any dampness had evaporated, the skies had cleared, and a gentle breeze was developing. Never more than 10-12 knots, with some light patches in between, there was at least enough for all boats to complete the race in a three-hour window, with no reports of injury or damage. There was plenty of positive feedback from all involved, and more so after they were ‘wined and dined’ and given an opportunity to recount the day’s events, exaggerate stories, and talk about their “could of and should of moments”. 
As is often the case, it was a challenge to get an early start on the Sunday. The early land breeze was always going to die and swing, and rather than risk boats becoming captive to the run-out tide, organisers opted for an early lunch and to wait for the forecast easterly. That decision was vindicated when the breeze came and strengthened around midday, which allowed for two more races to complete a three-race series.  

Some of the usual suspects were again dominant in their respective divisions/classes, including Dave Chester (fast catamarans), Craig Foley (Corsairs), Scooter (Impulse), and Steve Brajkovich (Trailerables), all of whom managed three wins from as many races. Chris Thompson (Laser) had to work a little harder for his win in the mixed monohull division, as did Garry Scott (RS100) in the faster monohulls. A special mention to Jay and Willow Stroud who came second to Garry, their placing topping off a good weekend for Willow who also celebrated a birthday.

If there was a prize for the best-looking class on the water, the Heron wins hands down, made so by their craftsman like boats, colorful sails and junior crews. Kylie and Joel managed to edge out Peter and Mia to make it an all Vaiciurgis affair at the top, closely followed by Adam Ross and son Max, third. The Arrow v Weta battle was on in earnest in the catamarans rated above 80 on yardstick, and in the end perennial winner Frank O’Rourke had to settle for second place, sandwiched by Weta sailors George Owen (1st) and Nathan Stanton (3rd).

The Big River regattas are lot of fun and they are always well received, both by the many who keep coming back and those who attend for the first time. Nothing is achieved without effort however, so a shout out to all those who make it happen, you know who you are!

Wayne Culph