After a short hiatus over the Christmas and New Year period, the Big River Sailing Club resumed activities last Saturday.
After a hot start to the day, a timely sea breeze kicked in for the first race and maintained a pleasurable 10 knots for the duration. The second race started likewise, however by mid-race the predicted southerly change had arrived with gusto, causing chaos on the water but also providing a welcome change in temperature.
Not all members kept their sails in the locker over Christmas, with some members travelling to compete at state and national events. Glenn Williams posted his best result at a national level, finishing 6th at the OK Dinghy Australian Championships held in Adelaide last week. Glenn is no stranger to the waters of St Vincent Gulf, having sailed there as a junior, and more recently when he competed in the Australian Masters Games. The five day regatta attracted a quality fleet of 32 boats, with representation from most of the Australian states, and included past and present national champions. Glenn will now prepare for the World Championships being held in Marstrand, Sweden in August.
Nathan Stanton and Bob Eggins had earlier competed in the Weta Class NSW State Championships held at Speers Point, Lake Macquarie, finishing 6th and 9th respectively. Whilst conditions were variable and at times challenging, both sailors recounted how they enjoyed the regatta and the opportunity to meet and compete with others in a growing class.
Wayne Culph