2026 Australian International Moth Open National Championships at McCrae Yacht Club - Day 1
by Shane Baker 5 Jan 12:47 GMT
5-10 January 2026
Official racing got underway today in classic champagne sailing conditions, with clear blue skies and sunshine doing their best to convince everyone it was going to be an easy day (it wasn't).
A detailed briefing covered laps and distances, with special recognition of Peter "Snubby" Moore, celebrating an impressive 50 years in the Moth class. Snubby reminded the fleet that he "doesn't get it wrong very often", before delivering a short history lesson on Matthew Flinders' adventures, encouraging sailors to pay their respects with a visit to Arthur's Seat before heading home. He also offered some timeless tactical advice: "Don't follow a WA on the first leg."
There was also minor confusion about yesterday's top mark colour and location, proving that even marks like to keep sailors guessing.
The Nikki class featured four boats, showcasing junior sailors as the emerging talent and future of foiling. The U Flag and OCS rules were clearly highlighted, along with the 5-minute start sequence. The course was pushed further offshore to reduce any unwanted assistance from Arthur's Seat.
On the water, four races were completed by the foilers and three races by the low riders.
Winds were SSW 10-12 knots, building to 18 knots, delivering foiler speeds in the low 20s upwind, high 20s downwind, and low 30s at full send. Wind shifts of up to 30 degrees meant results were decided by chocolates or boiler lollies — and not everyone went home with chocolate.
Speed bragging rights went to Jack Ferguson, reported at 31.1 knots. Jack is a member of the Australian Sailing Squad, campaigning the 49er for LA 2028, and 2023 Junior 49er World Champion — clearly still in a hurry as he won 3 of the 4 races in the foiler division.
Racing continues tomorrow.