A wonderful week at Airlie Beach Race Week
by Di Pearson, ABRW Media 16 Aug 2018 00:56 BST
9-16 August 2018
Alive - 2018 Airlie Beach Race Week © Andrea Francolini
Whitsunday Sailing Club's 30th Airlie Beach Race Week comes to a close this afternoon and the final day of racing is likely to be superb, according to Race Director Dennis Thompson, who says competitors will sail in the remnants of yesterday's trade winds in a Bay Race.
"It will be a little weaker, maybe up to 13 knots. I expect a sea breeze influence in the Bay. It may strengthen and move around. We'll shorten courses if need be," he said.
This has been one of the best Airlie Beach Race Week Festival of Sailing in memory. Competitors have had it all – nobody could complain they didn't have their chance, as each and every day since the regatta started last Thursday, has produced different conditions.
Only one thing remained constant – the sunshine in this tropical part of the world
"It's been a really good regatta. Competitors have had a bit of everything wind wise," Thompson says.
"Whoever wins each division is a true champion – good all-round boats no matter the weather.
"The whole week has been good – one of the best. Our volunteers have handled whatever has been thrown at them, including the flipping of the trimaran during the week. If we were back at school, it would be a tick with VG (very good) next to it," he finished.
So one more day to get through, and it's hard to think of a better way to finish. It's another sparkling day, the Bay will alive with colour and conditions look to be ideal for all.
Onshore has been the same. Whitsunday Sailing Club has made sure everyone has had a great time with various activities, entertainment each evening – something for everyone night and day.
All information at www.abrw.com.au