The Southport to Mackay Blue Water Yacht Race has finished with the arrival of the Southport-based cruising entry Hi Fidelity at 11.54 53 this morning.
The Adams Carina 44 was skippered by Southport Yacht Club member Andy MCARTHUR. Hi Fidelity also sailed in the inaugural race last year.
Double O Seven, a Northshore NSX38 skippered by Airlie Beach resident Warren SMITH arrived at the huge Mackay marina this morning at 9.14.42. As there was only one cruising entry, all boats were placed in PHRF Division. Boats with IRC Certificates also raced under IRC rules.
Handicap winner in both divisions was AFR Midnight Rambler, a Farr 40 OD, jointly owned by Ed PSALTIS and skipper Bob THOMAS. All crew members came from Mackay.
Placegetters in IRC Division were Ichi Ban, a Farr 52 owned by second time entrant Matt ALLEN; Double O Seven; line honours winner Andrew Short Marine and Seriously Ten, both 60 ft Volvo Around the World racing boats, and the Melbourne-based Elektra, skippered by Michael HIATT.
In the PHRF Division the place getters were Double O Seven, Ichi Ban, Andrew Short Marine, Hi Fidelity, Seriously Ten and Elektra.
All crews were met with a welcoming gift of a carton of beer, a bottle of Bundaberg Rum Coke and ice.
Chairman of the Race Committee Dale ROBINSON said,
"This year's race was a lot slower than the inaugural race last year. Nevertheless, the feed back from all crews has been great and we are delighted that all skippers have said they will be back next year. As the race grows, more sailors are appreciating the challenge and diversity of the course with its islands and varying winds. They are also discovering the huge facilities in our recently developed marina."
The Southport to Mackay Blue Water Yacht Race was hosted by the Mackay Yacht Club in association with Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and the Southport Yacht Club. Full results are available on the event website via the link below.