National Championships 2014

A cracking weekend of fine weather and close, competitive racing closed the curtain on a great summer of sailing.  On day 1 the first four races had four different winners, including Lindsay Kennedy's Quantum (1314) - making a welcome return to the fleet after a long absence - class stalwart Phil Pryde's Split Decision (914) - who also took a bullet in Race 8 - and master helmsman Gavin Gerrard.

On the whole the racing was tight and closely fought, with seconds separating first and last on the 1-mile course.  Nonetheless, Feng Shui (1348) soon established an insurmountable lead, fully 15 points clear of 2nd place after 8 races.

Congratulations to Andrew Wills, Anatole Masfen and Matt Kelway on an immaculately raced series.  Congratulations too to all competitors in this truly Corinthian competition.  

Many congratulations also to rookie Hayden Whitburn and Upfront (814).  Hayden's place on the podium is all the the more remarkable for his having missed two races due to rig failure.

Special thanks go to Megan Kensington and the RNZYS race committee who ran an exemplary series in sometimes trying conditions.

Particular thanks also to the Kensingtons and Craig Greenwood for the generous contribution of tow boats.  Finally, thanks to North Sails for furnishing the prizes and to North Sails and Coast New Zealand (I declare an interest) for sponsoring drinks after both days' racing. 

Results here