2022 ARYA DF65 National Championship Results

​Well, the third and final day has been completed and we have a new set of champions for the DF65 class.

Conditions early on were borderline between A+ and A rig, but the whole fleet settled on the A+.

After a quick assessment, we found the weed had infiltrated the course B area again, so went straight to the cource C championship area, where we enjoyed the eclectic mix of northerly, westerly, easterly and southerly winds. At least we hardly had a moment of no wind at all, with the exception of a half hour pause mid afternoon as the sea breeze fought against the northerly, and finally won, giving us a fantastic sea breeze for the last two races.

Co-incidentally, our 40th and final race per the NoR started at 3.55, just five minutes before the allotted last button press.

Unfortunately, a few gremlins turned up today, and we had some failures of certain degrees today, with five sailors feeling the effects, two having their participation in the championship cut short.

That said, the days sailing was very exciting and close.

Lisa Blackwood and Phil Burgess again showing up what consistency looked like.

Mathew Gray also had a great day, moving up the championship leaderboard.

Leader from yesterday, Lisa Blackwood's heart skipped a beat, when her V2 winch decided to pack it in finally. Luckily, a replacement was fitted and was back racing two races after the failure.

In the end, Lisa was just too good, with her vast sailing experience and knowledge of the local conditions - winning the 2022 ARYA DF65 Australian Championship with just 83 points from 40 races.

Second place, was Phil Burgess. Sailing an unflappable championship, and both ultra consistent, and very courteous around the race course.

Third place went to Mat Gray, who improved as the championship progressed.

All very worthy winners and are all to be congratulated.

We also had a Masters and Grand Masters awards. Australian Master winner went to Rod Marshall, with the Grand Master winner being David Jones.

We would like to thank all competitors who sailed for a very courteous and enjoyable event. Another big thanks goes to those who travelled across the pond from our neighbouring states to participate in the championship.

Thankyou also to our volunteers. Those who took on the Pro duties, rescue boat handlers, yacht launch/retrievers, scorers, observers, caterers and helpers. Your efforts have been really appreciated.

Time now to rest and recover somehow, in preparation for the DF95 Championship starting tomorrow.

​Thanks to Ray Joyce, who took the majority of the photos below across the three days