Wind Forecast perfect for record challenge

by Ian Grant on 18 Apr 2003 Brisbane to Gladstone yacht race sailors were preparing for a wild spinnaker ride before sail stressing winds when the annual Easter Holiday blue water classic starts on Moreton Bay at 11am today.

A vigorous interaction between a 1038 Hecto Pascal high and a 997 low pressure system in the Tasman Sea has forced fresh South East winds onto the Queensland coast.

Weather forecasters have confirmed a strong wind warning for coastal waters between Bowen and Coolangatta with gusts expected to peak 32 knots before moderating to 20-25 knots later in the day.

As expected the forecast has forced the race crews contesting the 55th race for the prestigious COURIER-MAIL CUP to perform an important last minute recheck of their heavy weather sails as they prepare for a supreme test of fresh wind sailing over the 308 n/ml course.

There was also an element of confidence on board the race record holder Grundig when skipper Sean Langman and crew prepared to face another race against the clock to beat their super fast 21 hour 44 minute 39 second course time set in similar winds in 2001.

Langman the conservative skipper of Australia’s fastest monohull yacht often described as a ‘skiff on steroids’ because of her exciting speed has his chance to fulfil a prediction he made 2 years ago.

“I’m sure Grundig given the chance to sail in a similar weather system has the speed to blow this time away”. He said.

His prayers have been answered with the boisterous wind forecast presenting Grundig with a perfect opportunity to prove the faith of her skipper.

She will be sent on a power sailing mission to leave Moreton Bay before lunch today and arrive in Gladstone before morning ‘smoko’ tomorrow with her crew targeting a finish time before 8-44-39am.

Meanwhile similar confidence has surrounded the pre-race preparations of the ‘Golden Oldies’ Saltash 11 and Wistari who have firmed as the yachts to beat for the fastest corrected handicap time and the overall race winner.