The 2022 TMC South Island ILCA (Laser) Champs were held in the south of the South Island in Dunedin. They were hosted by the Vauxhall Yacht Club on the Saturday and Sunday 10th, 11th December.

• ICLA 6 Results
• ILCA 7 Results

 

There were 26 entries, 8 Full and 18 Radials, with each fleet having their own start. It was good to see sailors coming from all over the South Island and even an entry from Auckland (guess who). There was a good mix of ages, with the Youth well represented in the Radials and the master’s dominating the Full Rigs. Racing was out in front of Vauxhall Yacht Club in the upper harbour, in the middle of the city making for good viewing. 7 races were scheduled and duly completed, 4 Saturday and 3 Sunday.

Racing on Saturday was in light and shifty winds after a short delay. The wind conditions meant that a good start was important, and the shifts had their winners and losers. Though as usual a group in each fleet mastered the conditions better than the rest. The day ended with only 3 points separating the top 3 in both fleets. With Darryl and Peter leading their respective fleets. Local sailors dominated the Radials, but the out-of-towners did better in the Full Rigs. It was then back to the club rooms for a post-race BBQ and catch up.

The forecast for Sunday was no wind until midday, so the fleet was kept ashore until the wind swung round to the northeast and filled in for a pleasant 10 to 12 knots. It was then just a quick sail out to the course for 3 more back-to-back races that produced some close racing as the conditions suited most people. The slightly stronger winds created a few changes in the Radials standing with plenty of close racing. It was then back to Vauxhall Yacht Club for a post-race meal catch up and prize giving.

In both fleets we had new names for the trophies this year. In the Full Rig fleet it was Daryl Parkes (Bluff Yacht Club) year, followed by James McAlister (Otago Yacht Club) and Nick Page (Pupuke Yacht Club).

In the Radials the second day resulted in a change in the top 2 places. Jenny Armstrong (Otago Yacht Club) had a good second day to lead Peter Graham (Vauxhall Yacht Club), and son Zach Stibbe (Otago Yacht Club). This also gave Jenny the clean sweep with first Master and first Women.

A great weekend was had by all in the deep south. Vauxhall Yacht Club were their usual great hosts and made sure everyone was well feed and watered. The weather played its part providing 2 days of mixed racing and giving the race officer (Martin Balch) a few challenges. The sailing was a good warm-up for those going to nationals in January. Those staying local there are still 3 more rounds of the Southern Traveler series to go. Next Years South Islands will be in the Christchurch area.

Thank you again to all those that made the effort to attend, those that gave time to run the event and the sponsors who help make it all possible.

Rob English