The Club Marine Brisbane to Keppel Tropical Yacht Race is underway with 23 yachts starting the race in a 12 knot westerly breeze on the waters of Moreton Bay east of Brisbane. The fleet had a clear start at 1100 hours. Right on schedule.
Peter Harburg’s Reichel Pugh 66 Black Jack led the fleet from early on with the Inaugural Line Honours winner Getaway-Sailing.com following close behind. Black Jack’s crew looked excited as they started their first race cruising at a steady 14 knots.
Last year's IRC and PHS winners Wedgetail, owned by Bill Wild was cautiously making their way north as they prepare to fight to hold onto to their titles.
The beautiful clear day saw perfect conditions for the fleet that are now bound for Keppel Bay Marina were the festivities will begin once the first yacht arrives.
Principal Race Officer Denis Thompson encouraged the fleet to travel safe as they make their way north.
'The reaching start has me thinking they will cruise up the cost for most of the night and with the current weather conditions the first boat is likely to arrive at Keppel Bay Marina at approximately at 5pm Sunday afternoon,' said Thompson. 'The Race Committee has a sweeps stake going for the time of the first boat home. I’m saying 5pm!'
The Beureau of Meterology at last night's weather briefing advised the fleet they would be dealt with fresh winds for the start, however the front predicated came through early at approximately 3am and has since eased considerably. The fleet is in for light and chilly conditions tonight.
An email received from the Radio Relay Vessel Kokoda said it was a beautiful morning for a yacht race. The will follow the fleet north until the last boat rounds Cape Capricorn.
The start was supported by the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Powerboat Cruising Group creating a spectacular display of colour and atmosphere for the competing yachts.
The yacht tracker will begin once the first sked has been completed at approximately 1730 hours.
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