Dominating an exciting 21nm short course that saw competitors round the Nine Pin twice and wind changes challenge seasoned tacticians, Tawera has again taken line honours. Crossing the line 11 minutes in advance of her closest challenger, the Pacific Division’s Antaeus, Hawera commanded racing on New Zealand Marine Race Day of the 2017 New Zealand Millennium Cup.
First and second over the Mark Foy start, Tawera and Antaeus, set the tone of their race as they reached past the committee boat hoisting their spinnakers for faultless starts. Their dual finishes of first place in their respective divisions, the NZ Millennium Cup and Pacific Cup, was a credit to the tactical nous of the skilled sailors onboard.
Third over the start, Pumula, fell foul of the wind shadow, languishing on the start line. Seeing an opportunity, Janice of Wyoming deftly slipped around her windward side and bucked forward – stealing any remaining wind Pumula may have had. Cowboy gennaker unfurling, Janice of Wyoming strode out in front.
All photos are courtesy of Mike Sims
