Twofold Bay Yacht Club 35th Annual Regatta – Race Report

This year’s regatta was contested by around 40 boats, from 18 different classes. A catamaran division consisted of Neil & David Joiner on sloop-rigged Mosquito “Immunity”, Tim Shepherd on cat-rigged Mosquito “Karma Kat”, Tony Hastings and Max Dogger on Paper Tigers “Pelikinetic” and “Why Worry?” respectively.

Race 1 began in a drifter, which increased to 5 knots and swung from SW to E. A swell rolled through with occasional 2m sets, which the wind fluctuating between peaks & troughs, so that if the sail were pulled in & out to keep flowing one would have been accused of pumping it. Winner was Immunity, who stayed with the wind to pull clear ahead on the first leg.

Race 2 was mostly 5 knots, with occasional 15 knot gusts in the last ½ of the race. Winner was Karma Kat, who had the best speed and stayed out in front in clear air. Flying 15s, NS14s and keel yachts maintained similar speeds to the Paper Tigers in the light airs, which made the race a fun challenge.

Race 3 began in very light winds, which dropped out completely after an hour or so, so the race was abandoned.

Race 4 was sailed in fairly steady 10 to 15 knots E, with the 2m swell continuing to provide excitement. The Mosquitos sliced through the waves, powering away to be by far the fastest boats on the course. In a close battle, Immunity maintained a lead throughout he race to claim the race win and 1st place for the Division.

Both Mosquitos have Kevlar hulls, moulded carbon-fibre foils, Mylar sails & fully adjustable rigs. They were very closely matched in speed, providing a great example of a boat that can be sailed solo, or with a father & son team. Young David loved the thrilling ride, standing out on trapeze as they sailed into the swells.

Pelikinetic was fast compared to the monohulls, enjoying overtaking boats all around the course to finish a consistent 3rd in each race. Why Worry struggled in very department, starting late in 2 races and on the 1 minute gun in 2 others, getting caught in traffic and eventually retiring from the last race with a hull full of water.

Thanks to the Twofold bay yacht Club for a great weekend, to the sponsors for generous prizes, and to all skippers for great company and sportsmanship.