The Yachtsman 2016-2017 RPAYC Yachtsman 2016-2017 | Page 49

YOUNG 88 I n what has become a regular annual feature on the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club (RPAYC) calendar since 2013, the Club again hosted the Young 88 NSW State Championships in April this year. Long term RPAYC member Steve Ellis, is a recent convert to the Young 88 in “Agent 88”, having previously campaigned much more expensive boats at the highest level of international racing. Steve commented “With a background in Etchells and Farr 40’s and now that I am in self-funded retiree mode, the Young 88 keeps my competitive juices flowing without costing an arm and a leg.” So, it’s a boat that ticks all the boxes, and at a time when sailing is struggling for traction against other sports and past-times, the Young 88 provides a unique opportunity for sailors of all ages and motivation to enjoy racing or cruising. This year saw an initial entry list of 12, down to nine on the start line with some late withdrawals due to calendar clashes. Racing was tight, in perfect light – medium conditions. Mixed crews of all ages shared the spoils over two days, with everyone featuring at different stages. Highlights included the battle of the Ellis’, with Dad Brian (Grinner) sailing Venue, and daughter Sarah sailing Young Generation with son Josh and husband David Tallis keeping the fleet honest and within the rules! the weekend, and mixed it up at the top of the fleet. All in all it was a great weekend, made especially so by the fantastic efforts of professional, Elaine Fowler and her team, who juggled courses in sometimes difficult conditions, while keeping us entertained with her radio banter ! The 2018 regatta is again scheduled from RPAYC, for the weekend of 21-22 April. NSW STATE TITLES 2016 - EVERYONE’S A WINNER The date follows Sail Port Stephens the weekend prior, and fits neatly between Easter and ANZAC day, and will coincide with the RPAYC Autumn Regatta. There is a register of boats for sale ($25 - $45k), and boats for charter. A perfect opportunity for you to test your skills, and enjoy the camaraderie of this unique, and low cost racer/cruiser. Come along and join the fun i n 2018. Everyone is a winner! SIMON GROSSER Images Provided by Beth Morley – All Images are available via [email protected] PLACE YACHT OWNER CLUB 1st Young At Heart Simon Grosser RPAYC 2nd Agent 88 Stephen Ellis RPAYC 3rd Pistol Dawn Malcolm Thompson BSC Steve, proved fast in his well-prepared boat, and only missed out on the overall win by a single point, in a neck and neck struggle in the final race. The overall award for commitment and enjoyment, must go to Glen Picasso and his team from Lake Macquarie. The appropriately named Young n Old raced the previous weekend at Sail Port Stephens, sailed the boat (full crew of six) to Pittwater, slept on board (six big, hairy, smelly, blokes!), and then following a few celebratory beers after the final race turned straight around and sailed back home to Lake Macquarie! Justin Atkinson’s beautifully presented and best dressed Kia Kaha from the Harbour was always quick, with a mixed crew of “ladies and gents”, but fell foul of the jury after a very competitive start line infringement, which cost them some points. “Gun” crew Pistol Dawn sailed well with consistent podium finishes but struggled in the lighter airs of day two, to maintain a podium finish in 3rd place overall. James Hill and crew from RMYC were so keen to be part of the action, they chartered Young Blokes for YAC H T SMA N 47