Race to Newburgh is a big success
Perth Sailing Club’s down river race to Newburgh Sailing Club took place this week.
A turnout of 12 boats were involved in the annual event and were welcomed to the water by a strong force five to six westerly wind.
It was Jack Douglas (Solo) who took the windward mark first before heading down wind towards Newburgh.
He was closely followed by the Watsons in their Enterprise with John Ferguson and Jim Galloway
Newburgh race action in the Albacore.
Peter Bevan, crewed by cadet Orry Graham, deployed the spinnaker on their Miracle and kept to the north shore to keep pace with the leaders.
The wind strength increased as the boats reached the open waters of the Tay and there were numerous capsizes.
In the middle of the fleet, the Watson Enterprise was holding its own against the RS Quest sailed by Euan MacDonald and Rick Raeburn.
At the finish line it was John and Jim (Albacore) who claimed first place.
There was more hard work ahead, however, as the fleet turned for home to sail in a strong, head-on gusting westerly wind.
A powerful outgoing tide also added to the test and it was a credit to those who did manage to make the journey without assistance.
The rescue boat crews had a challenging experience towing back the remaining fleet.
Perth Sailing Club commodore Bob Watson was full of thanks to all who made the memorable day possible.
“The club would like to thank John Cameron and the fellow members of Newburgh Sailing Club for taking the race times,”he said.
“And also for providing much needed refreshments for all those taking part.”
Results after handicap from Newburgh Cup on Sunday, July 8 - 1st Peter Bevan/Orry Graham (Ptarmigan), 2nd Leonie Poor (Emmental), 3rd James Curley (Laser).