Bronwyn Ridgway reckons there is symmetry in the three World Champions winning their age classification.  The Busselton Worlds champions Chris Dance and Peter Hackett were back together to win the Masters, Rick Longbottom and Darryl Bentley winning the Grand Masters, and Paul and Bronwyn Ridgway the Super Grand Masters.  

The State Champions this year are James and Tara Burman who recently won a windy Tasar Nationals held at Largs Bay. Languishing down the leader board after day one after a 1, 7 and 14 it was three straight bullets that saw the James and Tara wrestle back the lead.  It was tight at the top of the leader board and the Burman's were followed very closely by Rick and Darryl and Chris and Peter.

The regatta was held at Somers on Western Port Bay a short drive from Melbourne over the March long weekend.  The Club is actively supported by volunteers and a range of off the beach classes.  The Club is a significant part of the local community and a comfortable fit for the Tasar class.  Highlighted by the ten or so Somers based crews that participated in the event.  Lucy Ede a Somers competitor also won the junior helm award.

The race management was challenged by the changing conditions.  Winds were generally light and variable from the south and west.  Although the fleet experienced a 30-35 kt blast on Sunday afternoon bringing an early end to racing.  Monday started out light before a more usual southerly breeze set in at around 15-20 kt. The last of seven races was started only minutes before the last warning time of 2pm on Monday.

Another successful States and looking forward to the next States which will be held as part of Sail Melbourne Regatta over the period 17-19 Jan at Royal Brighton.  Since the Nationals will be held in Mandurah at Easter - this is a good option for January sailing - more symmetry.  Start looking for your accommodation. 

Full Results

F=DNF, C=DNC, S=DNS