RC of Sailing Members Update, 24 April 2018

To All Boat Owners, Skippers and Members,

On Sunday, 22th April, MYC in association with SCYC held BWS Race #3 (postponed from the ADR) – a total combined fleet of 10 boats signed on. The conditions became quite testing with winds over 20 knots prior to the start. Prior to reaching the first mark (NWF) 5 boats had already retired due to either worsening conditions or rig damage.

Prior to any boat reaching the NWF, due to persisting wind over 28 knots, increasing sea state and potentially worsening and dangerous conditions, I declared a shortened course. I retired Ocean Warrior short of the NWF due to winds over 30 knots and Harmony which had been bravely battling worsening conditions retired soon after.

3 MYC boats did complete the course – Margarita Pearl, Tanu and Sea Bass – congratulations to those hardy souls. Unfortunately, Tanu and Sea Bass had problems with communications and continued to complete the original course.

The Sailing Committee met last night and agreed that as the race had been officially shortened that the 3 finishing boats would be assessed as having completed the course and results would be determined upon their finishing times. The final handicap results for the BWS Race #3 are currently being calculated and will be published soon.

Further, the Sailing Committee has rescheduled the BWS Race #4 on the 6th May as the Brian and Trent Anstee Memorial Race.

The Interclub Bay Challenge scheduled for this Sunday will be postponed until Sunday 20th May. Instead, conditions permitting, a SAMS race will be held for those interested.

Safe Sailing.

Mark Coghlan

RC Sailing, Mooloolaba Yacht Club.