Sandringham hosts 'French' day

by Bob Appleton on 21 Sep 2004 Sandringham Yacht Club played host to the Annual Peugot Melbourne Beneteau Regatta held over last weekend in light but pleasant conditions.

The event, conducted by Sundance Yacht Sales, attracted some 26 entries, cluding 'Fantastique',
'Liberte', 'Enchante', Joan D'Arc', 'Dolce Vita', 'Flirteuse' and 'French Kiss'.

One could be excused for thinking there was a 'French Connection’ - and there was - in the shape of a Beneteau First 51 from Royal Geelong Yacht Club!

On Day 1, competitors headed out to the longer 12 plus nautical mile course, heading south in a 10-12 knot breeze, then NNW for the Fawkner beacon.

Fading winds slowed the heavier boats and made catching the leaders rather impossible, but in such idyllic conditions, that all crews and guests enjoyed the experience.

In Division 1, Sandringham Yacht Club's 'Cougar' (Alan Whiteley) gained 'honneur de ligne' and third on handicap, Royal Brighton's 'Reverie' (Alan Woodward) was second and SYC's 'Sure Thing' (Ray Shaw) came home third and first on handicap.

RBYC's 'Liberte' (Anthony Cook), clearly showed their 'freedom' in Division 2, by gaining the double header of 'honneur de ligne' and first on handicap.

'First Chance' (Peter Mortimer SYC), was second and 'Enchante' (Stephen Gall SYC), was absolutely enchanted to gain third place!

Win or lose, it was all worthwhile. Shortly after finishing, the hospitality of Sundance Yacht Sales kicked in complete with the
'Cointreau Girls' making it so easy for skippers and crews to unwind.

Having unwound, the presentation dinner that followed proved to be an outstanding success, putting the seal of approval on the well organised and hospitable weekend.

Well done and thanks to Sandringham Yacht Club and the dynamic duo, John & David Beck, from Sundance Yacht Sales.