Nick Press and Andrew Hay on Sydney Sailmakers currently lead the NSW State Championships after the first weekend of competition.

Only 1 of the 3 scheduled races was completed, with all racing postponed on Sunday due to strong winds. A call came in from the PRO just before the skiffs left the beach, with the news of 37knot gusts from the west.

In contrast, Saturday’s race 1 was sailed in a lovely 17-20knot North-easterly. Sydney Sailmakers put on a skilfully display with their 2^nd rig, handily the over powered conditions masterfully, to win the long course race.

They almost led start to finish, with superior downwind speed, only being troubled in the latter parts of the race by Geotherm, who took the lead at the final windward mark. Sydney Sailmakers executed a near-perfect nose dive on the bear away at the mark rounding, leaving the door open for Geotherm with their 3^rd rig to sniff victory. Geotherm’s lead was short lived as Sydney Sailmakers downwind speed came to the fore on the run to the finish.

The battle for 3^rd place was hotly contested for most of the race with Southport Sailmakers, Skoll (also 2^nd rig) and Red Rocket exchanging blows. Skoll succumbed to the power of the 2^nd rig, and Southport had a quick slip up, to let Red Rocket take a much deserved 3^rd place.

Many in the fleet had opted for 2^nd rigs, which resulted in several retirements.

Arrogant Frog, had a great day out finishing 7^th and winning the handicap.

The State Championships continue this weekend at Lane Cove (both Saturday and Sunday).

Race 1 results here.