All set for final day showdown at the Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta 2024

All quiet early at RMYS on the final day of the Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta 2024 © Andrea Francolini / AWKR

Kite packing pre-start or human pyramid ahead of the final day of the Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta 2024 © Andrea Francolini / AWKR

A crisp bright morning for the final day of the Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta (AWKR) and at the end of the day, the final outcome will be known with winners announced at Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron (RMYS) at St Kilda this evening and it is so close in some divisions.

For one last time, crews enjoyed breakfast and pre-race banter at the Club before walking the marina to their yachts.

Race Officer, Lou Hutton had her on water team around her for the race briefing. "We've got 5 knots at the moment and are looking at possible 5-8 knot conditions for the day. Two short races would be a great outcome," Hutton said looking out on Port Phillip.

Two races would mean the event does five in all, just one short of the target after the wind petered out to nothing yesterday.

Meanwhile, many competitors were buying at the outdoor Gill pop-up shop pre-sailing and discussing last night's spinnaker packing championship at the Club. Won by the two of the No Mans Land crew, who were quick, there were other notable performances, including that of runners-up, a crew from the well-named Hot Shot. Liberator's crew were also slick.

The speed of half a dozen teams was impressive. Others were quick, but I wouldn't want to have to hoist their kites of others who were fast but sloppy. No names, no pack drill!

Tyndelle Bleakley on bow of Sunshine during the Australian Women's Keelboat Regatta 2024 - photo © Andrea Francolini / AWKR

So many keen young sailors here this year, more than ever, which is pleasing for all. Among them a tall 17-year-old Tyndelle Bleakley. The South Australian is doing bow on Sunshine. She is keen to have a go at helming and offshore racing when she goes home. Offshore racing is another area of the sport keen to embrace more women.

We must make mention of the so many volunteers here too, who happily give of them time freely to this regatta. Many are regular returnees, including Cath Mahoney who looks after the breakfasts, lunches and BBQ sausage sizzle each day. Despite being busy, she never forgets to make sure all three are delivered to me in my office here. Thanks Cath and crew.

Thanks to, go to those who generously donated to this great event. Some we have already thanked, but others are: The Corbett Family Trust, which this year is awarding a $1000 cash prize to the team or split between teams that most embody the spirit of the regatta. The winner/s will be revealed at final AWKR presentation this evening.

Boating Central is the Marine Supplies partner, Grow Haircare, Sundae Body, Jimmy Rum, Savage Drink Co., Ronstan, Aspar Spa Essentials and Maggie Beer provided goods items and services. Thank you all for helping make this regatta the special event it is.

Any finally, the competitors. Without them, there would be no regatta. Some travel quite some distance to be here, the furthest come all the way from Darwin. Jenny Simondson and Fiona McManus' teams are representing Darwin Sailing Club and are sitting in first and second place respectively in the S80 division.

In previous years, New Zealand crews have competed here and we look forward to some returning next year.

For full results and all information, please visit www.awkr.com.au