Post-Christmas Series - Flight 4

Flight 4 welcomed Hugh Rebbeck as the new owner of Echelon (1083).  Hugh and his crew, Jono Howson have served their most recent Etchells apprenticeships aboard Tortuga (779) and their results eloquently attest to their faithful attendance to the tutelage of your correspondent.  Fleet veteran, Gavin Gerrard was on hand last night to correct the worst of the damage that I have inflicted and we wish Gavin all the very best for the future.

With the line set excitingly close to the Westhaven breakwater, a fleet of 11 enjoyed three quick and grippingly close races with Valsheda (950) taking a clean sweep.  Bobby's Girl (1058) (minus Johhny Melville) took second and Maverick (1077) just eased out Upfront (814) for third place.

After racing, Jenny Cooper of the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club gave a brief, impromptu presentation at Swashbucklers to invite all Etchells sailors to the 2015 Worlds, to be held in Hong Kong in November.  Information regarding this event can be found on the RHKYC website, or by emailing Jenny (etchells.hongkong@gmail.com).  The Worlds in Hong Kong is a truly mouth-watering prospect and all New Zealand sailors are encouraged to participate.

Further information regarding the Worlds will be posted on the website over the next few months.

Next week, the Auckland Champs, hosted by the RNZYS, will be held on successive evenings (Monday 23rd and Tuesday 24th).  A dozen Etchells are expected to compete and all are invited to attend the prize-giving at RNZYS on Tuesday after racing.

Results are here (flight) and here (series).