Scratch Race Round 6 - 6 April 2026
Location: Wynnum Manly Radio Model Yacht Club, Manly Boat Harbour
Conditions: Challenging and shifty conditions with a moderate easterly breeze, varying in strength and direction. A low tide made it a bit harder to launch the boats.
Race Overview IOM:
The Wynnum Manly Radio Model Yacht Club witnessed a day of intense IOM racing, with 13 skippers battling it out on the waters of Manly Boat Harbour. Andrew R. Wilson, sailing his Venti design, put on a masterclass performance, securing a commanding victory. The shifty easterly winds tested the sailors' tactical awareness and boat handling skills, leading to some close encounters and dramatic lead changes.
Race Highlights IOM:
Andrew R. Wilson's Dominance: Andrew R. Wilson, sailing his Venti, demonstrated exceptional consistency and speed, securing a string of first-place finishes. His ability to navigate the shifty conditions and maintain boat speed was a key factor in his victory.
Peter Kampe's Consistency: Peter Kampe, sailing his V9, also showed great consistency, securing a solid second place overall. His steady performance and tactical awareness allowed him to capitalize on other sailors' mistakes.
Ian Kennedy's Performance: Ian Kennedy, sailing his V12, achieved third place overall, having some good individual races, and fought hard in the middle of the fleet.
Shifty Conditions: The unpredictable winds played a significant role in the racing, with lead changes occurring frequently. Sailors who could anticipate wind shifts and adjust their tactics accordingly gained a significant advantage.
Close Racing: The middle of the fleet saw some very close racing, with several sailors battling for position. The races were full of close mark roundings and tactical duels.
Race Overview DF65
The Wynnum Manly Radio Model Yacht Club hosted a competitive DF65 scratch race, featuring a fleet of five skippers. Russell Gray emerged victorious, demonstrating consistent sailing and tactical awareness.
Race Highlights:
Russell Gray's Consistent Performance: Russell Gray, sailing his DF65, maintained a strong and consistent performance throughout the day. His ability to secure top finishes in most races proved crucial to his overall victory.
Close Competition: The racing was notably close, with Will Thomson and Marcel Koch providing strong competition. The lead changed hands frequently, and the sailors engaged in tight tactical battles.
Basil managed to finish 6th with only 5 boats on the water.
