4 May 2005

"This unique event, in that it is one of the only sporting events where seniors citizens can compete amongst themselves on an equal basis took place last Saturday on Table Bay. An entry of over 50 sailing yachts had been received, with most of the competitors in the 60 to 70 year of age category, over 15 competitors in the 70 to 80 age group, and even 1 competitor in the over 90 years of age group.

The format of the racing is a Pursuit Race were the slowest competitors start 1st at about 14h30, the hotshot boats will be starting at about 15h15.

The race itself was sailed in a pleasant South West wind of about 10 knots, the 1st yacht away was the Buccaneer of D Johnson at 14h30 and the last was the Reichel & Pugh Windsong sailed by Gerhard Koper at 15h01.

The eventual winner was the Benetau 47 sailed by Dave Abromowitz, which carved her way through the fleet to win by a couple of minutes. 2nd boat was UkuZwana sailed by C du Toit and 3rd Windsong. The handicapping of Dave Smith was excellent but he felt the racing could have been even closer if the wind had not become lighter than expected Back at the Club the competitors enjoyed a free meal whilst prizes were handed out to every skipper. The other Trophy winners were Hein Skipper the over 90 year age group, Molly Warr the over 80 year age group, and Geoff Myburgh the over 70 year age group.

The Event was the 1st Race of the Club's Centennial Year Celebrations."