As with most things in life in this Covid era the regatta was going to be different. We were missing many of our regulars such as Mick & Janine, Steve & Mick S, the Devery's, the Dodds', and even stalwarts like Adam, Chook & Mick N. I reckon these guys would have each sailed in over 30 nationals.
But there is always an upside and there were some talented sailors filling the void. Hawkesbury had 4 boats entered with Joey looking to move Chris and Tom on Incognito to the front of the fleet. Jock was going to sail in his first VS nationals, whilst Brian was going to sail in about his 40th. Alex was also unveiling his boat "White Line Fever". We'll have to wait for another day.
The Teralba entry list was smaller than usual but there is still some hope for the future. Mark N was itching for a sail after Hobart was cancelled so had signed on as sheethand on TBS, thus forfeiting his forward hand union membership. Col had also drafted Rohan, an ex 29er sailors and an exciting future prospect, to sail up front. Hopefully he gets another chance soon. Then there is the SFC boys, with Griffin, Lennon & Gabe recently beating the big guns at Teralba and keen to go. They were spied practising at Sunshine before the regatta and were looking ready. As too was Raptor, with Matt finally getting on top of some mast issues and having some good club races prior to xmas. And last but not least Firestorm was raring to go, especially after 3 days of polishing the hull.
So the regatta is done. What now? I have no idea. The only thing I know is I have a big box of T shirts. When things settle down the Committee will look at what we can do for the rest of the season. Hopefully those missing from the entry list at Sunshine will ADD to those that had signed on, thus a better fleet than ever next time we meet. You never know in these unprecedented times...
Stay safe
Cheers
John