On Saturday evening, five yachts set sail under a nearly full moon for the annual Full Moon race, covering approximately 30 nautical miles. Reignition (Charles Wallis) and Overdrive (Rupert King) vied for the lead at the start, with Manteca (Frank Tennyson), Rossgo (Greg Hammon), and Miss Behavin’ (John Morton) close behind. Reignition finished first, followed by Overdrive and Miss Behavin’. On corrected time, Miss Behavin’ emerged victorious, with Reignition and Overdrive in second and third.
The next race is the annual 'Round the Whitsundays race on July 6.
In the Whitsunday Sailing Club's weekly twilight race on Wednesday the conditions looked promising but unpredictable wind patterns challenged competitors.
Division 1
In Division 1, G’nome, skippered by Terry Archer, took the lead from the start after equipment failure delayed Joanne Norbury's boat, Frankie. G’nome dominated, finishing the course in 58 minutes, with Frankie trailing by a few minutes. On corrected time, G’nome secured a five-minute handicap victory.
Division 2
Charles Wallis’s Reignition led the Division 2 fleet from the start, while several favourites lagged behind. Bobby’s Girl initially led, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) and Reignition close behind. Black Jack, captained by Richard Anthony, made a strong comeback, overtaking Bobby’s Girl on the final leg to win by 32 seconds. Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) and QMS Ponyo followed nearly five minutes later. On corrected time, Bobby’s Girl won, followed by Wide Load (Shannan Hart) and Matchless (Terry Stevens).
Division 3
Rossgo, helmed by Greg Hammon, led Division 3, closely followed by Masquerade (Tom Vujasinovic). Lighthorse (Di Forster) and Lama (Alan Campbell) vied for third place. Rossgo crossed the finish line three minutes ahead, but on corrected time, Norbert G (Nigel Williams) claimed victory, with Lighthorse and Lama taking second and third.
The Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight series continues every Wednesday at 4:30 PM. Those interested in crewing should arrive by 2:30 PM.
Contributed with thanks to Ross Chisholm.
Photos supplied