S&S34 Class Racing – 6 race mini regatta – FSC (WA)

Over the weekend of October 29th and 30th 2005 the first West Australian S&S34 Class Racing for several years was conducted. The weekend brought unusual weather for October. The normal morning Southeasterly followed by the afternoon Fremantle Doctor blowing from the Southwest was replaced by West Northwesterlies.

The first three races on Saturday morning were sailed in 15-20 knot Westerly that had been blowing all the previous night creating lumpy seas. Three short (45 minute) races were sailed in Owen Anchorage just south of Fremantle Sailing Club (whom conducted the series). There were some tight battles between the yachts but the pecking order was soon established. The tall rig modified keel boats lead the way, followed by those short rigs that race regularly, followed by the yachts in full cruising setup.

Sunday morning and the weather forecast was for 20-25 Northwesterlies with the possibility of rain squalls to 45 knots. This time the weather bureau had it spot on. During the preparatory sequence for the second race a rain squall approached bringing the forecast 45 knots and complete white-out. Racing was cancelled and once the squall was weathered, all yachts made it safely back to the club house. Once ashore and under the hot showers the crews recovered quickly and the important social part of the regatta commenced. As the afternoon disappeared the drinks continued to flow, the stories got more and more exaggerated and the laughter got louder.

Overall Results

1st Manana David Nelson
2nd Swagman Andrew Walby
3rd Aries II Scott & Greta Lee

Race Results

Race First Second Third
1 Manana Swagman Morning Tide
2 Manana Swagman Morning Tide
3 Manana Morning Tide Arwen
4 Manana Swagman Morning Tide

Past results

click here to read more about club racing.

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