Races 1, 2 and 3 of the State Championships were held over the weekend at the Sydney Flying Squadron.
The fleet of 15 skiffs were blessed with a 3rd rig North Easterly breeze on both Saturday and Sunday, with a heavy run-out tide to add to the excitement.
Sydney Sailmakers (Nick Press and Andrew Hay) lead the championship after winning the first 2 races, and picked up a second place in race 3.
In race 1 Sydney Sailmakers fought of an early challenge from Geotherm, who had initially lead the race, to claim victory. The shark Island wing mark playing havoc with the fleet. It saw the top 4 boats all pull level for the lead after being spread out at the previous top mark. Lincole Crowne finishing 3rd from Big Foot in 4th. Slippery When Wet won the handicap honours.
Sydney Sailmakers made it a perfect start to the championship by winning race 2. They again had to fight off a challenge from Geotherm, who had again lead the race before capsizing on the first run. Lincolne Crowne finished 2nd and Big Foot found there way onto the podium for 3rd. Citadel Magnus won the handicap after a great performance from the crew.
Geotherm held on for a nail-biting win in race 3 from Sydney Sailmakers. Geotherm held the lead at the first mark, however Sydney Sailmakers hit the lead after the downwind leg. The next lap of the race saw the lead change between these skiffs 3 more times before Geotherm pipped Sydney Sailmakers right on the line. The lads on Cunnings Stunts got themselves on the scoreboard in race 3 after some teething problems in races 1 and 2, and were rewarded with a handicap win.
The final 3 races of the Championship will be held next weekend at Lane Cove, with the presentation Sunday evening at the club.