Geographe Bay Race Week Day 2: A sailing spectacle celebrating 21 years of maritime excellence
by Geographe Bay Race Week 5 Feb 10:29 GMT
4-9 February 2024
Geographe Bay Race Week - Mini Course of day 2 © Geographe Bay Yacht Club
Geographe Bay Race Week, celebrates its 21st anniversary, presenting an unparalleled surge in enthusiasm and participation.
The regatta has witnessed a remarkable uptake in entries, from 43 to an impressive 74 boats, solidifying its stature as the paramount event on the Western Australian Sailing Calendar.
In a riveting turn of events, the introduction of "Super 30s" promises an even more exhilarating spectacle, marking their inaugural appearance at the Geographe Bay Race Week. These sleek vessels inject a new dimension into the regatta, elevating the competitive spirit and further cementing its status as a must-attend event for avid sailing enthusiasts.
The opening night at GBYC set the tone for an action-packed week, with the Viper and Flying Fifteen fleets braving a building southerly breeze on Sunday morning. Under the watchful eye of Race Director Scott "Scotty" Olney, the fleets were granted a late start, unleashing the exhilarating potential of the Geographe Bay waters. The racecourse transformed into a vibrant canvas as spinnakers adorned the horizon, accompanied by a few heart-pounding near capsizes in gusts exceeding 20 knots.
The Mini Regatta race management team operated seamlessly, orchestrating four exhilarating races for the day. The backdrop of the massive keelboat fleet, racing near the Busselton Jetty with 74 boats, added a picturesque start to the regatta, showcasing the unity of sailboats against the stunning coastal backdrop.
As Day 2 unfolds, racing recommences at 10 am, providing enthusiasts with a front-row seat at the famed Busso Jetty for the starts and a relaxing afternoon at GBYC, indulging in Shelter Brewing ales. Race Director Scott Olney expresses his excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to reach this significant milestone of 21 years for the Geographe Bay Race Week. The overwhelming increase in entries and the debut of 'Super 30s' highlight the growing appeal of our regatta, a testament to the dedication of our sailing community and the enduring allure of Geographe Bay."
Acknowledging the instrumental role of sponsors, including the City of Busselton, Shelter Brewing Co, Club Marine Insurance, and other partners, Scott emphasizes their pivotal commitment to the race's triumph. The collaborative spirit among sponsors ensures the continued success of this remarkable event, fostering a profound love for sailing and creating indelible memories on Geographe Bay.
The week-long festivities, graced by the iconic Busselton Jetty, promise to captivate seasoned sailors and newcomers alike, fostering camaraderie, sportsmanship, and an unrivalled passion for sailing. Geographe Bay Yacht Club extends a warm invitation to participants, supporters, and spectators to immerse themselves in the excitement, both on and off the water.
For more information, please visit www.gbyc.com.au