Brass Monkey 2023

Published 12:34 on 26 Mar 2023

Twenty boats entered the Brass Monkey races on Saturday 25 March, and they were rewarded with a reasonably steady and building breeze from the East. Race Officer for the day, John MacKenzie, set a square course, trying to give the fleet a true-is beat east and then a long fast broad reach down to Downing Point and then a beat back to the start line.

The second race saw a slight change in course, trying to improve the beat into the building breeze. This seemed to tighten up the fleet with battles in the three main handicap groups. A quick turnaround in the third race meant that competitors (hopefully) didn't get too cold waiting for the final start.

Congratulations to all who took part in the first event of the season.

Speaking after the race, Euan Hurter said, "It was a challenging race, and the conditions were tough, but I was able to stay focused and push myself to the limit. I'm thrilled to have won the race and look forward to defending my title next year."

(He didn't actually say that. What he actually said was: " Ow, ow, oh I'm so tired, I must get out sailing more after the winter... why did you send me round for another lap...)

The event was a great success, with passers by and walkers watching the action unfold. Dalgety Bay Sailing Club has a long history of promoting sailing in the region and events like this play an important role in encouraging more people to take up the sport.

Top ten was:

Full results here: https://www.dalgetybaysc.org/series/6867