A fierce storm has delivered a dramatic and damaging start to the Australian Skiff Championships on Lake Macquarie, forcing race officials to shorten the opening event and leaving several boats with broken masts.
Chaos on the Water as Storm Cells Hit
The championships for both 16ft and 13ft skiffs, hosted by the Belmont 16s Sailing Club, began on Sunday with an invitational race in breezy conditions. However, the action was abruptly curtailed by incoming storm cells that swept across the Hunter region.
Australian Skiff Sailing Association president Ben Bruniges described the initial conditions as "picture perfect" but noted the wind was stronger than forecast. "Fortunately the race committee set a shortened course due to the looming storm cells," Mr Bruniges said. This quick decision allowed most of the fleet to return to shore just before the severe weather hit.
The scramble to get crews and support vessels to safety was a team effort. "It was great to see competitors and volunteers work together to get everyone off the water," Bruniges added, confirming the storm had resulted in "a couple of broken masts."
Record Fleet Weathers the Setback
Despite the turbulent opening, the event is showcasing a record-breaking turnout. More than 100 crews are registered, with 72 boats in the 16ft class and 31 in the 13ft class.
Organisers are particularly encouraged by the significant number of female sailors participating. Eighteen entries in the 16ft skiff division feature at least one female crew member, with many taking on the skipper role.
Sydney sailor Lindsay Stead summed up the wild first day, saying crews were sent home "with their tails between their legs" by the storm. He described the sailing as "pretty fresh, pretty fruity" before the looming clouds cut the day short.
Racing Ahead with Upgraded Facilities
The regatta officially commenced its full schedule on Monday morning, with nine races planned throughout the week, culminating on Sunday. The association has spare equipment available to help teams repair damage swiftly.
Wind conditions are forecast to be more moderate for the mid-week races before strengthening again towards the weekend, promising fast and exciting finals.
The event is being held at the Belmont 16s Sailing Club, which has recently undergone significant facility upgrades. Club Commodore James Griffith called the championship "the pinnacle of Australian skiff sailing," while CEO Scott Williams said the upgrades were designed to "future-proof our sport" and inspire the next generation of sailors.
