While the weatherman said that the wind would be from the south-east, Wednesday afternoon saw the wind swinging by up to 40 degrees, making for a challenging race for the 18 boats who competed in the Whitsunday Sailing Club twilight race.
First away was Treasure VIII (Rob Davis), frantically checking that they hadn’t fouled the starting process.
Once clear, they were soon overrun by the faster boats, with QMS Ponyo (John Galloway) first around the windward buoy.
A couple of close battles ensued, with Bobby’s Girl (Mark Beale) and QMS Ponyo swapping places many times, while a similar scenario saw Reignition (Charles Wallis) and Smooth Criminal (Leo Rodriguez) having similar battles.
At the front, Bobby’s Girl got the advantage on the last leg, crossing the finish 15 seconds ahead, with Reignition and Smooth Criminal a further two minutes back.
On corrected time, QMS Ponyo took the honours over Wide Load and Treasure VIII.
The start of Division Three saw little to choose between Lighthorse (Di Forster) and Rossgo (Greg Hammon), with the judge’s decision going to Lighthorse for the Doyle Sails sponsored best start prize.
On the water, Matchless (Terry Stevens) soon hit the front, clearing out to finish two minutes clear of Shiraz (John Cable).
Once ashore and the handicapping took over, it was Fordplay who celebrated with a two minute lead over Shiraz and Masquerade.
Contributed with thanks Ross Chisholm.
Twilight Races see tough competition. Photo supplied
