Yet another great event hosted by the Sunshine Coast Radio Yacht Club (SCRYC).
Congratulations to Peter Burford; Paradise RYC (2022 Champion), Derek Warne; SCRYC (Runner Up) and Geoff Morris; SCRYC (3rd).
And a big congratulations to all of the competitors for once again showing that RC Laser sailing is first and foremost about camaraderie and sportsmanship – evidenced by the good-natured banter and happy faces throughout the two days.
Very importantly, a huge thanks and recognition of the work put in by the large and tireless group of volunteers led by PRO Bill Clancy and scorer Gwen Warne.
Thanks also to Daniel for doing the boat and mast measures prior to the starters gun. Finally a big pat on the back to Bob (Mermaid Hunter) Caldow for the huge support he provides to the SCRYC RC Laser group
As a blow-in from the south, my first visit since pre-Covid, it was great to reacquaint myself with the excellent sailing venue (we held our 1st official event here back in 2005 (or about then!) – the first QLD State Title). It was very impressive to see the facilities the club has available and the way the club-members are so heavily involved in supporting and helping out events. Definitely a model for others to learn from. Also great to see the support that the local council and businesses provide.
Now, to the sailing:
The field of 17 included sailors from Hobart, Melbourne, Sydney and the Gold Coast along with 11 locals. It was pleasing to see a good number of travellers from far afield, particularly knowing that Covid is still in play, illustrated by the lofty airfares.
Winds ranged between B and C with cameo appearances by the A and moments where the D started edging itself out of the sail bags.
A total of 18 races, enabling 3 drops, were sailed over the two days in two fleets (A & B) using the heat management system (HMS) – except for late in the day on Saturday when several sailors retired early allowing single fleet sailing.
Peter Burford once again showed that event sailing is all about consistency and staying out of trouble. Always a gentleman on the water, Peter picked up seven 1st places and, after drops, his worst result was a fourth. Derick was only slightly less consistent with three 1st places and a worst result of 5th after drops. Both Peter and Derick were perhaps fortunate that Richard Fisher flew in from Hobart on Saturday morning and missed the first 4 races. Richard won 7 (50%) of the races he did compete in and finished in a very credible 6th position, only 2 points out of 4th. Richard also suffered radio interference problems in a couple of races, the Kawana Triangle making its presence felt to others as well.
There were many other highlights, not least of which was seeing Bobbie Caldow giving the fleet a lesson in port starts
All-in-all a wonderful two days of sailing enjoyed by all, thanks to the club members for the planning and organization, the success is a great credit to you all.
Check out the QRYA official report via the following link – some great photos
Cliff Bromiley
