Lucy C31 and Joan C99 have safely returned from Royal Yacht Club of Victoria in Williamstown after an exhilarating weekend of sailing. The two Couta Boats made the passage North a few days prior in a perfect following breeze under sail. They were equally fortunate to have a gentle Easterly on Monday for the return. The Regatta opening was a well attended and enjoyable cocktail function in F J Darlys boatshed complete with classic yachts under restoration.
Sailing on Saturday and Sunday had 30 yachts racing, split into three divisions. Joan and Lucy, being at the smaller end of the fleet, were in Division 3. There were two races each day, 15 knots of breeze on Saturday kicking up to 20 plus for the second race. Both Joan and Lucy had success, winning each race; Joan in the more moderate first race and Lucy showing their skills in the breezy second race.
Sunday was a light wind day in 10 knots, again Joan and Lucy managing top 3 finishes. It was magnificent to see the Old Classic yachts Acrospire and Sayonara sailing with full rig including topsails and Yankees. Social events included dinner at RCYV on Saturday and a presentation/Melbourne Cup lunch on Tuesday. Joan received the Col Bandy Trophy for Div 3, and a very special presentation of the Stradbroke II Trophy for the “Best Couta Boat”. Fancy that, a Div 2 boat receiving such a prize. Overall a great experience, for both Lucy and Joan and one we look forward to having again.
Tony Kinsman
Full regatta report here: https://southernwoodenboatsailing.com/news/nose-to-tail-sailng-the-2023-cup-regatta.
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