In a close finish, E’toile triumphed over Wingara II in our latest post Christmas twilight on 24 January 2024. After a cancelled strong wind warning (that got me thinking of our “odd” weather), the afternoon turned out to be very pleasant – with warm to hot conditions. The wind close to Martha Cove was a gentle 5-10 knots variable, with the usual flukey conditions in the lee of Arthur’s Seat in a southerly, but out further west towards the South Channel, it was a good 15-20 knot southerly with plenty of whitecaps.
After Wingara II blew out a Genoa sheet, and fell far behind E’toile, the leader fell into the “biggest hole I’ve ever sailed into” (Gareth)! Then it was neck and neck as Wingara II sailed around the hole to draw level. The above photo was taken close to the finish as E’toile edges ahead, to eventually win by a boat length and a half!
So the battle continues!
Wingara II is due to leave the Heads on 5 February for Hobart to be ready for the VDL Circumnavigation where she will be the Radio Relay Vessel for the fleet of 28 yachts and power boats taking part.
Watch out for blogs from the trip!
Keep safe – enjoy our crazy summer weather!
John Hall
RC-Sail
