Augusta Yacht Club sailors returned to the water at the weekend to contest race seven and eight of the Club Consistency trophy series after the event was called off on January 29 due to extreme wind conditions.

Seven boats raced for points in two races, which were contested in overcast weather and winds of 20-25kph.

It appeared from the shore that it was going to be a fast and furious day’s racing, but once out on the water the wind did not have the anticipated strength and with the gusty conditions boats were kept busy trying to choose a course that would give them the edge.

The first race got off to a fairly average start with Pigs Might Fly taking an early lead. Rudder problems, a snagged crab pot and its captain taking time off for a quick swim while trying to free a rope meant that Pigsy was still in the field after the first lap.

The two catamarans revelled in the conditions and were first home with the remaining boats completing the course without any major problems.

The second race was on a shortened course because the first race had taken nearly two hours to complete.

Despite only seven boats starting, the pre-race jockeying for position was worthy of a Sydney to Hobart.

The fleet of boats finished with only three minutes separating first and last on corrected time.

All boats enjoyed the close sailing with many individual battles within the race.

Pigs Might Fly with Ray Clement and Ray Wakelin was first across the line for the monohulls in both races and Marlee with Keith Leech and Dragonfly with Peter Vandertang shared the honors for the catamarans.

The third heat of the Ladies at the Helm and heat nine of the Consistency Trophy will be held on Sunday.

Brenton Air Results

Race 1 Monohulls
1st Suzy Q – Mal & Sue Buzza
2nd Seabird – Brent & Leanne Ettridge, Herman Gerritsen
3rd Pigs Might Fly
Catamarans
1st Marlee – Keith Leech
2nd Dragonfly – Peter Vandertang
Race 2 Monohulls
1st Suzy Q – Mal & Sue Buzza
2nd Pigs Might Fly – Rod Clement and Ray Wakelin
3rd F Troop
Catamarans
1st Dragonfly – Peter Vandertang
2nd Marlee – Keith Leech.