Shortwave, Yendys and Wot Now at 2205 sked

by Jennifer Crooks on 26 Jul 2008 Matthew Short’s new boat Shortwave together with Graeme Wood’s new yacht Wot Now, are in a tough battle for the line honours lead, based on positions at the 2205 race position report.

Amongst the lead pack Ragamuffin, Yendys, Flirt and Quantum Racing are both sailing outside of the rhumbline trying to utilise some offshore breeze. The lead four boats are currently averaging speeds of 8 – 10 knots.

For Matthew Short, sailing has definitely been a family affair - whether its business or pleasure. Shortwave’s crew is mostly all female with the exception of Matthew, his brother Ian and two of his daughters’ partners. Having only unloaded Shortwave off the boat from the UK in May, there was a flurry of activity to ensure the boat was ready to sail in this race and met Australian standards! 'We see the 2008/09 sailing season as our big season particularly with the boat being so new and she is running hot right now!,' said Kylie Short.
'We have had a terrific day to be at sea,' said Paul Clitheroe, owner and skipper of Balance. 'We are currently getting a nice 8-10 knot southerly breeze so we will follow this line and see how things go overnight. We have plenty of company with Playstation 3, AFR Midnight Rambler, Endorfin, Splash Gordon and Espresso Forte nearby.' added Paul.

Based on current speeds, the first boat should cross the finish line off Southport’s Main Beach late on Sunday night or early Monday morning, well outside record time.

The fleet now stands at 74 yachts after the withdrawal of Black Jack prior to the start and the retirement of Wild Oats X due to gear failure.