Variable winds pose challenge | Gladstone News | Local News in Gladstone

AFTER a week of wet and wild weather, the lake-like calm and brackish-coloured water of the harbour was a pleasant surprise for members of the Port Curtis Sailing Club who ventured out for Race 2, Head of the Harbour on Saturday.

Steve Lewis, as officer of the day, set a course close to home as a precaution, in case conditions changed rapidly, though the day was perfect for a gentle sail around the harbour.

Light and variable breezes of only 5 to 10 knots put pressure on crew skill and tactics as the fleet of nine yachts in Divisions 1 and 2 vied for positions at rounding buoys. The tight triangular legs presented crews with plenty of practice in sail changing and fast spinnaker hoists.

Rick and Jan Everitt took Fuzzy Logic out for a run in preparation for the Round the Bay race, proclaiming her race-ready, while Piranha took new crew on board as they begin training for their maiden Brisbane to Gladstone Yacht Race.

A fleet of mixed dinghies also enjoyed the flat water, though a little more breeze would have increased the excitement of the day. Ryan Marshall took a step up to sail his first two races as a solo sailor in his sabot Griffo, acquitting himself well in the light conditions.

Among the Impulse fleet, results varied widely, with David and Caitlin Mann posting a first and a fourth place, while Tom Moran improved his performance, moving up from a third in Race 1 to first in Race 2.

Sunday saw the first week of Adult Learn to Sail, with a group of eight enthusiastic "over-18s" taking to the water for their first hands-on experience.

All race results are available online at www.gyc.com.au.