The 3rd edition of the Auckland Women Laser Championships was held at Point Chevalier Sailing Club on 30th April with women sailors from all around Auckland participating in this fantastic event: Waiheke Boating Club, Kohimarama Yacht Club, Torbay Yacht Club, Panmure Lagoon Sailing Club, Pupuke Boating Club, and of course the host club.

 

A happy bunch of sailors ready to start the day

 

The Regatta was held on a bright sunny autumn day in rather light airs which ranged up to eight knots, requiring a fair chunk of skills in keeping those lasers gliding through the water as well as finding those wisps of breeze to fill the sails.

 

In the A fleet, competition was fierce throughout the day between the Master Women, Michelle Bain (NZ National Radial Champion -1987 & 1988) and Georgina Wooldridge (PBC), who were constantly chomping on the heels of Libby Porter (KYC). The last race was won by Michelle, who finally managed to catch up with Libby with that winning puff filling her sail.  Libby Porter won the day and the coveted Auckland Women Championship trophy for the 3rd time in a row. The trophy was generously donated by Jim Quinn.

Jim Quinn presenting the winner Libby Porter with the Auckland Women Champs Trophy

 

In the B fleet, Deborah Killen from Panmure dominated the fleet and even managed to catch up with the A fleet in a race, a great feat as she completed a Learn to Sail course just a year ago.  She was followed by Jemma Walden from Waiheke. Jemma won the inaugural J. Davern Trophy for 1st Youth, which was generously donated by Point Chevalier Sailing Club. Well done!

 

Kirsty McDonald did an amazing job organising the regatta with her team of helpers. The Point Chevalier Sailing Club members made everyone feel welcome; we were greeted with a fantastic race pack designed by Julie Davies and some yummy homemade scones and cookies made by Ros Quinn. At the end of a hard day of racing a sumptuous feast was waiting for us all. The regatta sponsors provided the winners with some generous prizes and a fantastic line up of spot prizes so that everyone came back up with some goodies. Thanks needs to go to all the sponsors for supporting this event, Burnsco, Mad Millie, North Sails, Rialto Cinemas, ecostore, Auckland Paddle Boarding

 

It was a fantastic event enjoyed by all and everyone came back with smiles on their faces and even a tan! Thanks Kirsty and Point Chevalier for such a memorable day!

 

All the Master Women cannot wait for next year’s Master World Games in Torbay if you are interested in attending contact Michelle Bain
 

cheers
Chantal Grass
Laser Association