With a strong nor’easter blowing 15-17 knots, gusts adding 3 or 4 more and a forecast predicting an increase in wind strength during the afternoon, Sunday was a day for the experienced sailors.

Only three crews took to the water for what was slated to be Port Macquarie Sailing Club’s first handicap start race of the season, but given the lack of competitors, a regular spring series race was held instead.

Frank O’Rourke on Turbo, just home from his success at the 2023 Phil Johnston Memorial 14ft Catamaran Regatta, was the only catamaran entrant. Launching from the beach as the other crews were crossing the start line, and then struggling with a few rigging items that were not quite right, Turbo took some time to get into the groove, but like a well-oiled machine, was in front of the fleet before the first downwind leg.

Jim Kerrison and Deb Stenning in Death Defying Too put on their usual masterclass of skiff skills including their buttery smooth gybes keeping the kite full and boat level with wind and tide behind them for some blistering downwind times.

Simon Gandy and Warren Sykes in Voyager were second across the line in the monohull division also demonstrating some fine sailing skills in the trying conditions. Yardstick and Handicap results were identical.

Next week will be Spring Series Race 7 starting 11am and the Ted Kuhn Cup starting at 2pm Terry Howard is rostered on duty. Remember to bring your lunch as there will be no barbecue.