Another day with superb spring sailing conditions was welcomed by Port Macquarie Sailing Club members on Sunday for Race 3 of the Spring Series.

The race got underway in 12-13 knots of ENE wind and the last of the run-out tide. The wind freshened during the race, but thankfully stayed more consistent than last week. 

It was quite the Impulse day with a fleet of 7 at the monohull start line together with an MG and a Pacer. The race was quite the parade with Rohan Nosworthy in Beat taking the lead early followed Warren Sykes in Runamuck, Martina Holt in Spellbound, Terry Howard in Flying Dragon, Jeff Walsh in Serenity, Tony Walker in Deep Purple and Jane Cooper in Impetuous. At the finish line it was a close thing for Tony as Jane had been creeping closer throughout the race. Stuart Symons was joined by new sailors Nik and Bhav Singani in Puffin. Steve and Lucy Bolhsen were towed back to the beach in Interceptor after one lap. According to Lucy: “Dad broke the boat” when the tiller snapped off the rudder box. 

In the Catamaran Division, Frank O’Rourke sorted out last week’s issues with his new boat, Turbo, to lead Rob Barwick on Drift around the course. Perhaps it is something to do with the boat names?

In the Junior Division, Charlie and Aiden Nosworthy in Raccoonicorn took the win. Kieran Andrew and Zoe Copeland in Britannia crossed next despite a capsize while trying to tighten the forestay mid-race. Riley Armstrong and Ziggy Ewart ventured out in their new 12’ Skiff, Panadol Rapid, which was quite a sight under spinnaker. Unfortunately, they did not finish the race. A few more outings in the boat to gain some more experience on the type will help.

Another highlight of the day: Scott and Kelly Witchard dropped in to pick up a new membership form for their first crew member, Abby. Congratulations from your sailing family!

Next week will be Race 1 of the Handicap Series. 12:30pm start. Rob Barwick is rostered on duty.