Superb sailing conditions and post-racing festivities marked Day 2 of SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week (SMIRW), resulting in new winners across all divisions. The Six Fathoms Race Day featured Strand races, providing a spectacular view for locals and visitors alike along the foreshore on a sunny day in Far North Queensland. As boats rounded the laid mark near the Strand, the breeze picked up, leading to fast-paced action.
The day’s races offered a glimpse of what to expect when the Olympic Sailing Competition makes its way to Townsville in 2032. In the IRC Division, an all-NSW showdown concluded with Grant Golombick’s TP52, Quest, outpacing yesterday’s winner, Tom Woods’ JPK 10.80, Saltwater Wines, and David Hamilton’s Farr 40 One-Design, Seeking Alpha. Golombick praised his team’s flawless execution and credited tactician Pete Farrugia for navigating through changing wind conditions.
Tasmanian sailor Hughie Lewis triumphed in SeaLink Spinnaker Division 1 with his RP46, Hartbreaker, taking an early lead in the series. Initially unaware of his win, Lewis humorously remarked on his singing abilities, drawing comparisons to the famous singer of the same name. He noted a solid performance with wind speeds ranging from 15 to 25 knots.
In Division 2, John Kint claimed victory with his Adams/Radford 57 footer, Bundaberg, narrowly beating fellow Victorian Mika (Brian Yarnall). Kint highlighted the challenging conditions but noted that his boat handled well. The crew is eager for the upcoming lay day to explore Picnic Bay and enjoy a barbecue with fellow competitors.
The Non-Spinnaker category was won by Andrew Watson’s Beneteau Oceanis 473, Apres Vous, who noted the excellent weather conditions for sailing. Watson commended the close competition and credited the event’s volunteers for their efforts.
Principal Race Officer Denis Thompson informed teams that wind conditions would remain similar to previous days, and he organised the divisions across two Strand courses. Tropical Dress Day added a festive atmosphere, with prizes for the best-dressed crews.
As the day concluded, the Six Fathoms Tropical Cocktail Party kicked off at Peppers Race Headquarters, featuring the rock band ‘Cranky Pants’ for entertainment. A lay day awaits at the Townsville Airport Island Breeze Festival, promising activities for all ages at Picnic Bay, with free shuttle buses available.
Racing will resume on Monday at 11:00 am, with a Passage Race set for most divisions, except for SeaLink Spinnaker Division 1, which will have two short races starting at 11:30 am.
SMIRW is supported by Townsville City Council through Townsville Enterprise and Tourism and Events Queensland.
For full results and all information, please visit: www.magneticislandraceweek.com.au
By Di Pearson/SMIRW media
#MagneticIslandRaceWeek #miraceweek #SailingAustralia #SeaLink
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