Australia Day Trophy 2019

Twenty one boats enjoyed perfect conditions for the FSC Inshore Sections Australia Day Trophy last Saturday.   The race started at 10:30am after a short postponement to ensure that all competitors could reach the start line at N.  The race was a combined fleet Jib and Main race and the sunshine and light breeze created a relaxed atmosphere for the sailors and their guests.  The breeze had strengthened and swung to the South West by the time the last boats finished, without the dreaded calm between land and sea breezes.

Nineteen boats recorded a finish with Raf Bellofiori’s Beluga retiring and C Irwin’s French Kiss (making their inshore debut) disqualified for sailing through the line during the race.

John Palmer and Jaye Martin’s Witchy Woman sailed a terrific race to take first place and the the Australia Day Trophy. Witchy Woman had some extra crew with Steve and Vicki Delfos taking the opportunity for a sail while Minke is out of action for repairs.   Inshore Captain Brian Cooper’s Valkyr was second on handicap with Lance Woods’ Impulse third.

James Halvorsen’s Giddy Up was fastest – finishing several legs ahead of the smaller and slower boats.

Sailors returned to the club for a late lunch and the presentation of both the Cruising JAM prizes by Cruising Captain Robbie Hayes and the inshore pennants and Trophy by Inshore Captain Brian Cooper.  Thanks as always to our Race Control Crew on Success.  Full results are available on www.sportspage.com.au, all of Chris Bender’s photos for the day are available on OneDrive.

Race Report by Frances Hammond

Photos by Chris Bender & Frances Hammond