Stretching the legs up to Flat Rock

Published 22:48 on 2 Apr 2023

Yesterday Race 4 - the contest for the Commodore's Cup - of the AA-Solar 2022 -2023 Gulf Series was a soggy affair, but not enough to dampen spirits. The fleet set off from the start line set by the Allerman's on Glory Days on Course 7: Start line GH buoy (P) - Flat Rock (P) Motuora (P) GH Buoy(S) - Finish (33.9nm) A fast reach in the flat waters under the peninsula from the northerly breeze had the fleet set-off at pace with a couple of extras hoisted by Hijinx & Memphis to the GH mark. A multi-hour upwind leg into some steep seas had Enigma 1 & Glory Days heading to the right and the remainder of the fleet to the left up to Flat Rock. Satisfaction 2 were the first to round the submarine-esq navigational feature before stretching their lead out down- wind towards Motuora, whilst dolphins tried to distract the team on board Enigma 1 as they rounded. In the lee of Kawau the sea-state calmed and extras were hoisted, and the ominously grey clouds that had been looming to the north hosed down the decks. On board Memphis Warren worked his crew hard with multiple peels & repacking of their kites so they probably didn't notice the rain. Fast Lane, with the shortest waterline, had a bouncy ride upwind followed by 'shrink-wrap ' of their gennaker around their forestay. This still didn't dampen skipper & Series Handicapper Keith Auld's spirit. Rounding Motuora and heading back through the Tiri channel had some good tussles between Satisfaction 2 & Hijinx, & Big Kahoona & Enigma 1, with the final reach back to Frenchman's cap by the finish mark. Thanks to Diane for taking finish times from the clubrooms !

Line Honours: Hijinx
Podium positions : 3rd - Enigma 1, 2nd- Glory Days, 1st - Memphis

Huge appreciation to Warren - who co-ordinates and competes in this series & for the participation of crews throughout the series - it remains a popular one thanks to his efforts.

Last updated 07:46 on 19 May 2025