Glassy Waters with Golden Skies

Published 13:43 on 4 Apr 2022

Our final evening of racing for the 2021-2022 Gulf Harbour Marina Twilight Series got underway this evening.

After a turbulent few days of wild weather, 10 boats headed out into glassy waters wondering whether the race 9 would be able to proceed. RO John Bruce made the call for Course 3 in a SW 5knt breeze. The downwind start had Enigma 1 crossing first in a Windward position with clear air & Memphis hoisting her big white spinnaker as they crossed the line to accelerate away & lead the pack. With the fleet heading down to the yellow Gulf Harbour mark an array of colourful extras were hoisted and the breeze slowly clocked toward the North. Satisfaction II & Fast Lane had a gentle jostle for positions whilst Toyshop, Glory Days and Azure patiently took the breeze when they could down the middle of the course. Meanwhile, C McGuire went searching for pressure to the right but it didn't seem to pay off for them. Memphis rounded the bottom mark first & kept flying their kite for a section of the next leg now with Patiko hot on their heels.

Sailing west into golden sunset skies, Race control shortened the course to finish at the top of the Windward leg with Memphis taking Line Honours. The race now was to get back into safe haven before the dark skies unleashed their fury. With a stroke of good fortune, and only a few drops of rain, the storm passed to the north of the marina and crews were awarded with a lightshow to finish the series.

Podium positions- with thanks to Keith Auld, our club handicapper. 3rd: Wharanaki IV, 2nd: Memphis, 1st: Patiko
Line Honours : Memphis

Great series thanks to the hard work by our Sailing Committee

Last updated 09:19 on 20 February 2024