TUESDAY NIGHT SERIES - FLIGHT 6

Despite a late start - due to technical issues with the crane - the fine weather allowed for three very close races across a fast ebbing tide.

With the offset mark drifting rapidly down-tide, The Etchells sailed a démodé triangular course (on some legs although not others - just like the old days) and the combination of tide and the shortness and unpredictability of the course made up for some thrilling races.

There was some nostalgia aboard Tortuga (779) for the old Olympic courses (triangle, sausage, triangle) and bowman, Jono Howson, embraced the retrospective with a ten minute countdown and a confounding 'mast abeam' call on the downwind leg.

Meanwhile, aboard Upfront (814) Hayden Whitburn failed to enter into the vintage spirit, with the introduction of some fresh, new sailing talent, who would have taken the flight, but for some bad luck in Race 2.

In the end, however, a befittingly superannuated Johnny Melville took out the flight aboard Bobby's Girl (1058) to preserve the honour of the old guard.

With two flights remaining in the series, there is still everything to play for - and much to enjoy.  We hope to see an even larger fleet out next week when the RNZYS will once again host the Etchells.

Results here (flight) and here (series).