Sled captures Geraldton Ocean Classic honours

by Bernie Kaaks on 7 Nov 2010
A few surprises heralded the announcement of the overall results of the Automasters/Redink Homes Geraldton Ocean Classic and return races at the presentation dinner held at South of Perth Yacht Club last night.

Fastest time overall went to Trevor Taylor’s Marten 49, Optimus Prime, a reward for his consistency as he finished in second place in both races.

Sled’s performance in winning line honours for the return race, when combined with his second on both YAH and IRC handicap in the race north, was good enough to secure overall first on both YAH and IRC.

The two race series marked a remarkable turn-around for Sled. Owner Tony Mitchell was clearly disappointed with the yacht’s performance in its first season. He recruited a solid, experienced crew (including Sydneysider Cameron Percival for the Geographe Bay Race Week) but the Farr 47 was never a serious threat on IRC ratings.

During the winter months, Mitchell had a new keel designed and fitted, and worked closely with Evolution Sails WA boss, Paul Eldrid, to re-equip the sail wardrobe. Aesthetics were also considered and Sled was returned to the water with a new paint job. The result was not just an immediate improvement in the boat’s speed, but a reduction in her IRC rating.

In the downhill sleigh ride from Fremantle to Geraldton, in which Scott Disley and Paul Eldrid’s little 37 footer General Lee smashed a thirteen-year-old record set by Garth Curran’s Inglis 58, Sled finished fourth over the line but close enough to the leaders to pick up second place on IRC.

Rebel sailmaker Paul Eldrid would be delighted with the results of this year’s Geraldton, with his sails picking up line honours in both directions (General Lee and Sled), handicap wins in both individual races, and Sled’s overall victory.