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More than 100 sailors delivered some stunning performances on the water last weekend at the third Mud House Women’s Regatta hosted by the Waikawa Boating Club.
New Zealand's best women sailors clashed in the four-race event raced in a wide range of conditions. A best-ever turnout of 17 boats saw crews from all parts of the country put their skills to the test.
Close racing in division 2 saw a fine double from Lyttleton skipper Karen Selway with her Young 88 Abracadabra. Selway sailed a near perfect regatta, taking line honours in all four races as well as winning three of the four races on handicap.
The division 2 podium was rounded out by Waikawa boat Freaky, the Farr 727 helmed by experienced ocean sailor Jill Bethell, with Waikawa’s Nicky Jenkins sailing the Hanse 385 On Appro taking third place.
Division 1 delivered some fine racing. Regatta guest Jo Aleh took to the water aboard Satellite Spy helmed by Carla Bennet and contributed to a perfect four from four for line honours to the Ross 40.
National women’s keelboat champion Sally Garrett brought her crack crew from Auckland and, despite stepping aboard less than 24 hours before the regatta began, Garrett and her crew sailed an immaculate regatta, winning four races from four on handicap aboard the David and Jo Grigg-owned Beneteau 36.7 Global.
Showing an exceptional ability to multi-task, regatta coordinator Juliet Abbott helmed the Young Rocket Oldsmobile to second in the regatta. The racing was so close the final result was decided on countback with Satellite Spy taking third, one point clear of New Year regatta champion Kaimai Flyer.
With more than 60 percent of sailors visiting from other parts of the country, the social programme was also an important facet of the weekend. Sailors were treated to a wine tasting with regatta sponsors Mud House Wines hosting the crews at a superb venue in scenic Kumutoto Bay.
Racing was delayed on Saturday due to a lack of wind, however, the programmed two races were completed before crews returned to shore. The regatta dinner on Saturday evening featured an interview with Aleh, who spoke about the challenges facing aspiring young athletes in their quest to be the best.
Sunday dawned much dryer than Saturday with extremely light winds testing the capabilities of crews in these conditions. Race officer Viv Butcher was able to set a tight and testing windward-leeward course as the final act of the regatta when the breeze filled in later in the day.
Dates for the 2020 event have already been set and, with visiting crews already committing to the event, the regatta looks to have a strong future.
“The event is rapidly becoming a must-do on the calendar of top women sailors nationwide," regatta spokesman Duncan Mackenzie said. "We’re looking forward to growing the event alongside our foundation sponsors Mud House Wines."
