The Morris Finance Sydney 38 Regatta was held at Royal Geelong Yacht Club over the weekend of 15th and 16th September. The Series was won on a count back by “Cinquante” skippered by the local and sponsor Ian Murray from Lou Abrahams “Challenge”. The seven race series was sailed in predominately light and testing conditions.
Race One set the pattern of the regatta with “Cinquante” coming from behind to win from “Challenge”. The short course format promotes close racing which was a highlight of the weekend. “Clockwork” (Gordon Mathers and Frank McDermott) delayed proceedings by tangling the pin end of the finish line. Undeterred “Clockwork” sailed a sensational race to easily win race two from the consistent “Challenge”. With two wins and two seconds “Challenge “ led the series at the end of the day but those results did not reflect the closeness of the racing. An enjoyable silver service dinner capped off a great day!
Fortunately, more wind prevailed on Sunday eliminating some of the frustrations of the previous day. “Cinquante” came out to play and was the dominant boat of the day with two wins and a second. “Chutzpah” (Bruce Taylor) recruited North’s Noel Drennen and did well to win a race and pressure the leaders. “Challenge” struggled to hold off these rivals and slipped down the leader board. “Clockwork” sailed consistently on both days and did well to finish third overall. 38 South (John Chatham) had a second in race 4 and “Mille Sabords” (Stephane Howarrth) threatened at times. Adrenalin (B Watts Syn) had a regatta to build on!
A presentation concluded the regatta. Many thanks to the regatta sponsor, Morris Finance Ltd, the race and jury officials, the Marina Manager, the Sailing Manager, Rodney Haggebold and the RGYC for their hospitality.
The regatta is no doubt a highlight of the Victorian Sydney 38 calendar.
RESULTS (After one drop)
- Cinquante Ian Murray 10 points
- Challenge Lou Abrahams 10 points
- Clockwork Gordon Mathers & Frank McDermott 18 points (Ist Corinthian)
- Chutzpah Bruce Taylor 20 points
- Mille Sabords Stephane Howarth 26 points
- 38 Degrees South John Chatham 28 points
- Adrenalin B Watts Syn 38 points
Rowan Simpson
Southern Chapter Secretary