The 5th and final heat of the Sabre Opening Day Series was held on Saturday at Perth Dinghy Sailing Club’s 114th Opening Day. Wind strength was sometimes gusting to 25knts so the course was set in the bay. 15 Sabres received the starters gun. Ed Bannerman put in a suberb display in the conditions to lead the fleet home with Paul Giadresco and Tony Carr following behind.
Many capsizes were had in particular Bob Tailor who was seen floundering by a passing 29er yacht and picked up delivered back to his boat (that’s mateship). In the process he also lost his rudder but this was returned by another sailor who found it floating past.
We all saw it about to happen. A big gust knocked veteran Bill Gillham out of his boat close to shore and the boat lined up Pete Coop’s boat with an almighty bang. Luckily not much damage!
Congrats to all that finished and also to the four boats that did not finish at least they put a huge effort in. (I was glad to enjoy the scones, sausage rolls from up on the balcony)
Overall the series was a huge success and helped promote the class and show others how good Sabre sailing in WA is.
Overall series winners were
- 1st Scott Olsen
- 2nd Ed Bannerman
- 3rd Pete Coop
Best wishes for the 2016/2017 sailing season
Brian Jones
WA State President
Sabre Sailing Assoc of WA
Click Here for Final Overall Results
