Explorer 16 Victorian Championships 2023 - Results

The Championships were held on the weekend of 11-12 February at Saint Leonards Yacht Club and Motor Squadron. Saturday was a beautiful sunny day with light winds forecast, and three races were scheduled. To maximise racing time, back-to-back races with three minute starts were agreed.

Competition was keen, with eleven boats on the water, including five SLYCMS Explorers, one a Daysailer. Ideal flat water racing, with local knowledge of tidal streams an important factor.

The directional changes in the northerly wind necessitated a change of course in Race 2, and a new mark and changed finishing line in Race 3, as the wind freshened to 18-20 knots, gusting to 25.

The forecast for Sunday looked marginal with winds 20-25 knots, and ominous low dark clouds and the occasional spatter of rain. As the breeze and waves picked up the decision was unanimous to abandon any further races. So it was good foresight to have got three races in on Saturday, sufficient for a series.

SLYCMS Top Yacht software was used to calculate Line Honours and Handicap results. All Explorer variants (Mk1, Mk 2 and Daysailer) were allotted identical CBH (the new AS rating), with the only distinction between boats being whether a spinnaker was carried on board.

Congratulations to new Explorer owner Bill Atkin, who with Brian Case skippering his boat Zatila, won Line Honours, narrowly beating Glenn Wilson and crew Cameron Lloyd in Gonzo on countback, and Ryan Wilcox and crew Fiona Douglas third in Sandpiper.

Handicap winners were Peter Mart and crew John Day in Meander, Tom Phillips and crew Jason McIntosh second in Nagana, and Kylie Wright and crew Bruce James third (on countback) in UpWright.

Thanks to all entrants for their spirited competition and for a fantastic turnout; it’s been many years since we had this number of entrants in the Vic. Championships. Thanks to the SLYCMS volunteers, who managed the races and manned the rescue boats, as well as providing food and drinks throughout the weekend. Particular thanks to Racing Officer Steve Neunhoffer who conducted the races and compiled the results.

Saint Leonards Yacht Club and Motor Squadron are a very friendly and hospitable club, and we were delighted that they chose to host our 2023 Victorian State Championships, and thank them for organising a great weekend.