2015 Walpole in the Trees Regatta overall

by Liz Edmonds on 4 Mar 2015 It was fantastic to see over 80 boats from around the state competing in this year’s Walpole in the Trees Regatta including Windrush’s, Mirrors, Sabres, Lasers, Hobies, Cherubs, Moths, 420s, trailer sailors and many more. Skilful performances in often tricky weather conditions over the two day event produced some great race challenges, capsizes and some ripping yarns.

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The vibrant community atmosphere combined with the stunning backdrop of tall trees, inlet waters, sandy white beaches and spectator viewing right on the bay continues to make the Walpole Regatta a memorable occasion. The Regatta team assisted by, what seemed to be an unending supply of volunteers, coordinated the mammoth task of race events, food, presentations and celebratory dinner. A great job was done by all.

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On Day one all divisions started well on time in the unseasonal overcast cool conditions with 18 knot SE winds. As the afternoon races and the gusty winds continued a few boats got into trouble. It seemed that at every turn there were boats capsizing at various times with many practicing their skills in righting their vessels, but always with rescue boats at hand for support if needed. There were only a few early retirements or yachts requiring minor repairs. Later, with much cheerful banter and smiles, everyone gathered in the evening at the registration point for the day’s results.

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Refreshed for Day two and consistent 10-12 knot SE winds, participants competed in three short and long triangular course races throughout the day. Out on the water there were some exciting battles for space in the pretty good breeze. The flotilla of boats at the start line for each class was a stunning sight as was the excitement to see the yachts pass the finish line.

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The Regatta Prize Presentation Ceremony was hugely popular, filling the Walpole Recreation Centre. The festive mood and meal was great, auction and raffles well supported. The Swarbrick family were posthumously honoured for their commitment and contribution in the establishment of the Walpole Yacht Club. Once the formalities were over, tables were cleared away for music and dancing.

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Congratulations to competitors for all race results and in particular the 2015 Moths WA State title holder Lloyd Edmunds (Fo Shizzle). The overall results were:

Division 1

1st Place: Viking (Edward Roocke)
2nd Place: Wokahoona (Maxwell Cummuskey)
3rd Place: Cutting Edge (Claire Roocke)

Division 1A
1st Place: She Wookie (David Fishwick)
2nd Place: Butt Head Demon (Paul Beeck)
3rd Place: Old Salt (Ian Piata)

Division 2

1st Place: Vision 2 (Swen Holm)
2nd Place: Little Blue Surfcat (Sally Wynn)
3rd Place: Green Machine (Jay Macfarlane)

Division 2S

1st Place: On Fire (Pete Coop)
2nd Place: Sacrifice (Trevor Holm)
3rd Place: Kite (Graham Hill)

Division 3

1st Place: Chi Ki (Neil Harrison)
2nd Place: Changes (Ken and CJ Waller)
3rd Place: Charisma (Anton Mann)

Division 4

1st Place: The Halicarnassus (Frank Cooper)
2nd Place: Cunning Witch (Neil Worrell)
3rd Place: Crazybird (John Longley)

Division 6

1st Place: Chardonnay (Roger Thurecht)
2nd Place: Madness (Cliff Rolfe)
3rd Place: Feeling Lucky (Chris Thompson)

Division 7

1st Place: Smurf Crease (Todd McVee)
2nd Place: Serenity Now (Virginia Horn)
3rd Place: Pandemonium (Brad Luketina)

2015 Moth State Titles

1st Place: Fo Shizzle (Lloyd Edmunds)
2nd Place: Dreadnought (Person Pearse)
3rd Place: Flying Circus (Philip Smith)

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Thank you to all participants, sponsors and volunteers for making this year’s regatta so much fun. The event bought many visitors to the area, boosting our economy over the long weekend and was thoroughly enjoyed by all.