IOM State Championship - Day 1 of 2

​A fantastic day on the water by the looks of it today. A fresh 10-12 knots early on when I was there, and when I returned later in the afternoon, all but two yachts were on B Rigs.

From reports, the wind was quite shifty, both making it difficult for the PRO in setting the courses, but also for the sailors in picking the correct shifts to chase.

Sailing at a good clip, we got 7 races finished prior to lunch, with Mat Gray continuing his sizzling form - in the lead on 13 points, from Chris Wood on 18, tied with Ray Joyce in equal second. Three more yachts followed inside 5 points of third. A very close mornings sailing.

A further 9 races were completed in the afternoon, with time called just as the wind was starting to falter - great timing.

At the half way stage, we have Mat Gray comfortably in the lead, on 28 points, with Michael Hickman blasting through the pack into second, on 37 points, with Chris Wood in third, on 43 points.

Chatting with various sailors after the days sailing was real nice to hear the enjoyment of the day, with quick turnarounds between races, and a great atmosphere amongst the sailors.

It was great to see some out-of-club competitors as well as club members who have not been able to make regular Sunday sail days. Thanks, Ted, for making the trip down again from Launceston, and also to Ricky (representing MBYC) competing in the state level event

Big thanks has to go to Les, who as PRO got things under way after his briefing - all nicely on time, and kept things moving nicely as the day went on.

Thanks also to Andrew Wardrop, Ken Dobbie and Rod Marshall, who all gave their time to help with observing duties throughout the day. It's really appreciated guys.

Tomorrow will be the resumption of the championship, briefing at 1015, and button press at 1030 through to 1530.

Photos to come later, but in the meantine, results are below;