The regatta was held at Aeolians on the 20 and 21st September. 10 Dabchicks made the starting line in very heavy conditions.(for the Vaal). The wind stregnth was around 18 knots gusting to 28 at times whipping up the chop on the Vaal Dam. Added to this was the cold front coming through which had brought snow to many regions in the country. The first day saw Gareth Baxter taking the lead and keeping it for the whole regatta winning every race. He was at times challenged by James Mc Wha and Tim Gibbons. Alexander Ham who is new to the class this season sailed with determination despite numerous capsizes.
The conditions continued on sunday with many boats not taking to the water due to the conditions or breakages. A huge fire was kept going in the clubhouse around which many tired cold and wet sailors and familes gathered to keep warm All in all a good regatta and it was good to have a “heavy regatta” on the Vaal again. The many new sailors to our ranks I think learnt a lot for the more experienced guys, not to mention enjoying the comaraderie.
Owen