Match racing returns to the bay

MATCHING racing returns to the bay this weekend, with the Flying Fifteen Match Racing hosted by Point Yacht Club.

The racing will see eight double-handed teams taking to the water on both Saturday and Sunday in the bay. Four boats will be utilised for the duration of the racing, with the faster, newer boats in Durban getting some water time.

“After the very successful Inter-Varsity Match Racing held at the end of last year, I thought it would be great to get some match racing action for the dinghies as well.” Myles White of the Rear Commodore for Dinghies said. Two boats will go head-to-head, usually on a short windward-leeward course, with teams swooping and changing boats.

Depending on the weather, the course intention is to have the race course set just off the end of the Durban Marina mooring, and this should provide an opportunity for spectators. It is planned to be a double round robin to establish a seeding order, then an elimination knock-out.

“I have invited a number of people and am awaiting their acceptance or rejection. We could have some top international sailors on the bay, with top South African 505 sailor, Thomas Funke; South African Grand Master Laser sailor Campbell Alexander; defending Flying Fifteen Nationals champs Patrick Harris and Jeremy Kriek as well as Paul Changuion and Tim Dugiud, who have won the nationals in recent years.” said White.

“The club’s highly competitive Struan Campbell, Richard Weddell and Gregg Hurter have also been invited, so the potential for some awesome competition on the water. I am optimistic that the weather will be good for two days of intense racing.” he added.

The two day Flying Fifteen Match Racing kicks off the dinghy sailing season this year.

Do you want to receive news alerts via WhatsApp? Send us a WhatsApp message (not an sms) with your name and surname to 060 532 5535.

You can also join the conversation on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.