Voodoo takes 2011 E5.9 Nationals at Bay Week

by Elliott 5.9 Class Assn. on 26 Jan 2011
Voodoo, sailed by Simon Manning, Andy Robertson and Hayden Whitburn (representing Auckland clubs BBYC and RAYC) has won the 2011 Elliott 5.9 National Championships sailed as part of the Bay Week regatta at the Bay of Islands in Northland, New Zealand.

Second was Brzo, helmed by Rod Dawson and with owner Nathan Williams on Bow and Geoff Clark on mainsheet. Third place went to the Hobo (Rob Ward, Onerahi) in a count back from Zoot Allures (Dave Cochrane, Onerahi).

Other boats to feature at times included Animal Crackers and Sub60, which was forced to retire from racing on the final day with a damaged sidestay.

All four yachts are previous National Champions.

The regatta provided close racing and despite a seemingly comfortable winning margin in the final results, Voodoo and Brzo in particular fought out some close tussles on the water.

E5.9 Class President Nathan Williams was pleased with the success of the regatta for the class, commenting that it was great to be part of the Bay Week for the first time. He said the class sailors would like to return to Bay Week in the future.

Offering close racing and great social events built around a North Island weekend regatta circuit, the Elliott 5.9 class is the perfect 3-person syndicate boat. The class is relatively low maintenance and is sailed by a crew of 3. No rail meat - everyone has a job!

For information on the Elliott 5.9 class, got to http://www.e59.org.nz and you can also see more details and like us on facebook www.facebook.com/elliott5.9.