The Alfred's News The Alfred's News Winter Edition 2018 | Page 17

Yacht Racing News
Gwen Slade Etchells Regatta crowns a new
winner
The Gwen Slade Ladies’ Etchells Regatta was created by Life Member and world-class sailor, William Russell Slade in
honour of his late wife, Gwen Slade.
Russell Slade was a prominent face of sailing in the 1960s, having competed in the Olympics and being a strong competitor
in 16ft Skiffs and 5.5m class boats he was also the first person to build a Fiberglass yacht in Australia, Janzoon II.
Russell, as described by his son, Paul Slade, was a very
passionate man and envision that sailing is a family involved
sport based on fun with winning not being the major
objective. Russell’s love for One design racing lead to the
choice of boat and development of the Gwen Slade Regatta.
The Etchells was chosen as it was a growing class and the
simplicity factor would help promote the inclusion of
advanced and beginner sailors. With a little media help from
the Packers, Russell was able to launch the first Gwen Slade
Ladies Regatta in 1981.
Today, the regatta is still going strong with the RPAYC
hosting it every year in conjunction with the Pittwater
Etchells association.
Flirtation skippered by Lucy Shephard took the win on the
weekend with an impressive score card.
Women’s Sunday Winter Series & Women’s
Saturday helm series
Continue your sailing throughout winter on Pittwater.
Take the helm (mixed crew) for the first Saturday race of each month during June, July and August in the Saturday
Winter Series and Early Bird Series races to be eligible for the New Women’s Saturday Helm Series or compete in the
annual Women’s Winter Sunday Series held the first Sunday of each month during May, June, July and August.
Invite your friends and family to be part of your team and enjoy Pittwater’s winter sailing.
• Saturday racing from 1200hrs Pursuit round the can’s racing.
• Sunday racing from 1000hrs scratch start round the cans racing.
TO ENTER REGISTER ONLINE:
https://www.rpayc.com.au/sailing/yacht-racing/online-entry-system
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