18 October 2003

The KZN Optimist Class Association held the second round of their 2003/04 Optimist & Laser Grand Prix Series at HMYC, Midmar this weekend.

Four sets of races comprising the Grand Prix series are held over a weekend at different venues in KZN in order to foster junior sailing at the yacht clubs around KwaZulu Natal. The first was held in the harbour in Durban and the next two will be at ZLYC (17 Jan 2004) in Richards Bay and the grand finale, offshore Durban on 27th March 2004.

Conditions at Midmar on Saturday were wet, cold and only a light SW wind was blowing. Five races were put in by Race Officers Andy Gray and Steve Martin. Rudy McNeil and Vincenzo De Gennaro dominated the Optimist fleet taking first and second respectively in all five races on Saturday. Vincenzo winning by a huge margin on Sunday.

In the Laser fleet, it was Aaron Larkens who showed how to do it, taking two firsts in the morning races. The Michaelhouse sailing club turned out in force, Jerome Gristwood taking two firsts in the afternoon. Anthony McMillan did well to achieve a first in the only race held in very light North Easterly conditions on Sunday.

Overall positions in the Lasers were close and Stuart Purchase was forced to take second overall to Anthony on a tie-break count back.

This weekend also saw the KZN Optimist Association honouring the team who are going to compete in the National Championships and it was a privilege to see the KZN Squad members sailing in their new Second Skins KZN tops.

Well done guys and we wish you all the best and good sailing.