It’s Friday, so it must be the final day of racing at Geographe Bay Raceweek 2026! Our vibrant fleet woke to find all the elements of a great regatta had come together in glorious synchronicity – a 15 knot plus offshore breeze made for champagne sailing conditions whilst our well fed and watered crews were primed to end proceedings on a high note.
Under sunny skies, the various divisions assembled at the end of the Jetty just before the 9 am kick-off time, where Race Officer Dubbo had one last surprise planned: a reaching start to gybe mark near the marina before the fleets launched into one last passage race.
The start boat went into sequence bang on schedule, with the race for the pin end of the start line (and clear air) making quite the spectacle for those lucky enough to be watching. As each division was unleashed on the course, the boats chased each other to the gybe mark. A number of boats put on a show, making the most of the two-sail reach and gaining significant ground on the divisions ahead of them.
Soon after, the gybe mark exploded in a riot of colour as crews pointed their boats at the distant Cape Naturaliste and hoisted their kites – a final speed run to finish the regatta.
After rounding the offshore blue water mark, the fleets then made their way through a series of inshore marks near the clubhouse before a last leg back to the finish.
And just like that, Raceweek 2026 appeared to have come to a close.
But it wasn’t over yet! As crews packed up their boats and filtered back to the clubhouse on the shores of Geographe Bay, a festive atmosphere reined as a fitting end to a fun filled and action-packed regatta.
During presentations winners were crowned, friendships were made and ongoing rivalries ensured that our sailors will return to contest the next edition of Raceweek in 2027.
Congratulations to the Raceweek organisers and Geographe Bay Yacht Club – yet another amazing regatta.
To all the sponsors, volunteers and support crews, thank you for all behind the scenes work that helps make this (and all regattas) such a huge success.
To all involved – fair winds, following seas and safe travels. See you all again soon!!
@TP72Imagery
Pics and words by @TP72 Nautical Images
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