Round three of the Northlakes Radio Sailing Club Laser series was held in wild conditions on Sunday September 25th at Grahamstown Dam Sailing Club, near Newcastle.
A good entry of 15 skippers faced a very challenging day in 20 to 30 knot north westerly winds building up a lumpy onshore “surf”; with the final race being held in a violent rain squall.
Despite this (or because of it) most skippers enjoyed the challenge. Many swapping back and forth between C and D rigs trying to second guess conditions for each race.
One boat made a high speed break for the other side of the lake when launched with its receiver turned off! It was eventually caught by the rescue boat. Another had its rig lifted out clean of the hull when involved with a collision while running at the front of the fleet.
Racing was fast and furious, but at the end of the day Jason Rootes came out on top of round three of the Northlakes Radio Sailing Club Laser series. With local member Graeme Auld impressing with second position in a loaned boat! Third was Daniel Bergan. After that positions were extremely close with several boats within 2 or 3 points.
Prizes were awarded, followed by a wine raffle in the Clubhouse after the event. Local “Horizons” host Club President Neil Wasson was thanked for their hospitality by NorthLakes President Brian Lindsay.
The final round of the Northlakes Radio Sailing Club Laser series round is to be confirmed for the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club.
Then the Club will commence regular Saturday racing on Lake Munmorah, at the Tom Burke reserve.
Further information from Brian Lindsay tel 0438589910
Story by Derek Plante