A beautiful winter day in Melbourne marked Day 2 of the 34th Australian Women’s Keelboat Regatta (AWKR). The wind gods played tricks once again, making the fleet wait until 12.15pm for a weak northerly breeze to arrive at Port Phillip, near the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron, the regatta’s organiser.
Despite the delays, crews and race officer Laura Hughson managed to get one race underway, while competitors found various ways to entertain themselves during the wait on the calm waters.
Laura Hughson noted, “I travelled 800 kilometres to have my backside kicked by the wind,” maintaining her sense of humour despite the conditions.
In Division 1, Sarah Clough, daughter of event founder Gai Clough, led her boat Crusader, a Beneteau First 30jk (Vic), to victory in today’s light race, following a second place finish in Race 1 yesterday. Clough expressed her delight, stating, “We had a fantastic day. It was beautiful out there. We like the light weather – but you had to pay attention as it was tricky.”
Clough’s long-time sailing partner, Kate Middleton, echoed her sentiments, praising the number of boats participating and the generous hospitality ashore, including barbecues and drinks.
The camaraderie continues with plans for a spinnaker competition involving nominated crew members. Clough remarked on the joy of reuniting with old friends and the fun atmosphere post-racing.
Looking ahead to tomorrow’s final day, Clough hopes for more light air to secure another good result.
Event co-chair Monica Jones has moved up to second place in Division 1 with her Adams 10, Salamanda III, thanks to a solid performance in Race 2. Ciara Earley’s Jacobina has dropped to third after finishing 10th in the latest race, with other yachts lurking closely behind on equal points.
In Division 2, Holly Farmer’s S80, Revolution, continues to lead, adding a fifth to its previous win. Janet Thornley’s S80, Espresso, won Race 2 and now sits in third overall.
The tricky conditions saw top wind speeds of 6 knots, averaging around 4 knots. Competitors had to be strategic in avoiding wind holes and tacking at the right moments.
Misfortune struck for the Lancoorie, skippered by Sue Burke, when a broken rudder forced them to retire from the race. The Boat Buoys, a dedicated team of male volunteers, swiftly provided assistance, showcasing their commitment to supporting the regatta participants.
Stroud, the team leader, emphasised the importance of their role, from shore-based activities to on-water assistance, ensuring a smooth experience for all competitors.
This year, a new addition to the regatta is the daily presence of a masseuse, catering to the needs of tired sailors.
As RMYS celebrates its 150th anniversary this year, festivities will continue throughout November. Tonight’s entertainment includes a barbecue, a kite packing competition, and karaoke, providing a lively end to the day.
Thirty-six crews from across Australia and New Zealand are participating in the 2026 Australian Women’s Keelboat Regatta, with hopes for at least one race tomorrow.
By Di Pearson/AWKR media
For further information, visit: https://awkr.com.au/boat-entry/
Follow the regatta on social media:
Facebook: www.facebook.com/AustralianWomensKeelboatRegatta
Instagram: www.instagram.com/awkr.rmys
Twitter: @awkr1 https://twitter.com/awkr1
#AustralianWomensKeelboatRegatta #awkr.rmys #WomenInSailing
Interested in seeing more Racing News? Click here
Interested in seeing more Racing News? Click here
