SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week - Underdog Le Rossignol steps up

by Andrea Falvo on 3 Sep 2012 A small Goonellabah boat has proven to be one to watch this year at the SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week off Townsville.

The sixth annual SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week regatta attracted sailors from all over Australia who were keen to race in the sunny North this spring.

Goonellabah skipper Peter McKenzie has been sailing for 20 years but took the plunge into racing with the purchase of the Ross 7.8 a modified trailerable yacht.

As part of a fleet of 60 yachts, Le Rossignol was one of the underdogs having only begun racing three years ago.

The boat competed in the Airlie Beach Race Week last month, leaving with a win on the last day and coming ninth overall in their division.

After two days of racing at Magnetic Island, Le Rossignol took home two from two wins of line honours and handicap, making its way to the top of the leader board.

'The sailing in Magnetic Island is great and the weather has been perfect. The boat really likes the light conditions and so far it has been perfect,' Mr McKenzie said.

'The crew are working great together - they are having a good time and loving Magnetic Island.'

With only one more day of racing left Le Rossignol is hoping to come out on top to make it four from four.

Mr McKenzie has made a few changes to Le Rossignol during the past year to make sure she was in top condition for the regatta.

'In the past twelve months we have a new keel bulb and tuned the rig a bit better, so that will definitely help us out on the water.'

Mr McKenzie said Le Rossignol, which translates to ‘little swallow’, had a mixed crew of regulars and newbies for this year’s regatta series.

The crew of Le Rossignol are hoping to take home the win and make it a clean sweep in Cruising with Spinnaker category in division two.

The Cruising with Spinnaker class had a lay day yesterday during which the Le Rossignol crew spent relaxing and exploring Magnetic Island.

Mr McKenzie said he really enjoyed the sailing at Magnetic Island and was looking forward to next year’s regatta in sunny North Queensland.

For more news, photos and stories please visit SeaLink Magnetic Island Race Week website.