Tasmanian IOM State Regatta

A beautiful morning greeted us this morning, with a nice 9 knot northerly blowing early. The 13 competitors wondering if an A or B was going to be used to start with - with two on B rigs for the first race.

It was great to see such a mix of sailors along today as well. From those expecting to contest at the head of the fleet right through to the ones who are still getting used to their boats and all the in-betweeners as well.

The wind abated steadily throughout the day, with a finish half an hour early with the water glassing over. By the time we left the bar, the entire bay was glassed over, so it was a good move to close the day early.

The racing was very close througout with 6 skippers taking race wins. Similarly, in Silver Division, 4 of the 6 recorded wins as well.

The absolute standout of the day today (in my opinion) was the relaxed and respecftful nature of the racing throught. An ideal briefing at the start of the day setting the standard of behaviour and it was met. Fantastic seeing so many packing up saying how much they enjoyed the sailing today. The type of behaviour the club not only aims for, but expects when we are sailing. Fantastic job to all competitors in this regard.

Again, with Montrose Bay (and Risdon Brook Park) being public open space, it is important to be respectful amongst all the competitors and as we saw today, a lot of people stopped and watched the sailing as the day progressed.

After the day closed with 11 races completed, Chris Wood was the most consistent at the head of the fleet, a very well deserved winner of the regatta on 23 points with three race wins (and with drops of 6 and 6).

Second place today went to Mat Gray on 27 points - a welcome return to the IOM fleet after some time away from sailing. Great to have you back on the water Mat. 

Third place - on countback - was Lisa Blackwood on 33 points. Always consistent up the top of the fleet.

In Silver Fleet, Ricky Price took out first place on 15 points (and was 5th overall!!). Still improving rapidly every time he hits the water. Great to see.

Second place went to Ted Stevens on 24 points by countback to Peter Sylvester in third place on the same 24.

Big thanks to Rod Marshall, for being the PRO today. The wind played a few tricks and made some courses a bit more difficult to set, but handled very well throughout the day.

Coming up

Wednesday is  Mid Week IOM Handicap at the Dam, button press at 11am

Next Sunday is RM Scratch, at MBYC, button press at 1pm

Kyle