Race Report Saturday 15 August 2026

Photos by Mike Dunne

Sprint Racing

Saturday’s fleet was greeted by a timely reminder of sailing’s first rule: never trust the forecast.

While competitors arrived expecting a healthy 15-20 knot southerly, Sydney Harbour had other ideas, delivering an oscillating SE to SW breeze of 5-10 knots that kept sailors, race officials and wind apps equally confused throughout the afternoon.

A strong fleet of 25 boats took to the water, including approximately 16 ILCA 7s, with the remainder comprising ILCA 6s and ILCA 4s. Despite the lighter conditions, the racing was highly competitive, with sailors quickly discovering that today’s winning strategy involved looking up the course rather than at the morning forecast.

The shifting breeze produced plenty of tactical opportunities and a few moments where competitors were convinced the opposite side of the course had more wind. Sometimes they were right. Big call out to Kerryn for the herculean top mark rounding in the last race. Well done with not jumping off the boat and just swimming home.

Five races were successfully completed, providing an excellent afternoon of racing and ensuring no one could claim they “just needed one more race” to move up the leaderboard.

Consistent pressure changes and wind oscillations rewarded sailors who kept their heads out of the boat and remained adaptable as conditions evolved throughout the day.

The race management team kept the programme moving efficiently despite the challenging conditions. The on-water team was led by Mike Dunne (PRO), supported by Craig Ryan, while Jason and Jasper aboard the RIB handled course mark management and adjustments. Their efforts ensured the course remained aligned with a breeze that seemed determined to explore every point of the compass except the one that had been forecast. With five races completed and plenty of close racing throughout the fleet, it was a great day for competitors to shake off the winter cobwebs. Some sailors successfully removed theirs, while others may have simply redistributed them around the boat.

A big thank you to all competitors and volunteers who contributed to another successful day of racing. Strong participation, close competition and a good dose of harbour unpredictability combined to make for an enjoyable afternoon on the water.

- Mike Dunne, PRO