Perth sailors turn out in force Commodore’s race

Jul 2 2010 by Johnathon Menzies, Perthshire Advertiser Friday

A TOTAL of eight Perth Sailing Club members took to the Tay for the Commodore’s Fun Race at the weekend.

Robin MacArthur’s Albacore, crewed by Ian, soon established a lead in fair conditions, which he maintained throughout the five rounds.

Fellow Albacore expert Andrew Porteous, whose entry was crewed by Gavin and Sarah, lost his way and was forced to ask other participants how many laps remained at one stage.

Gus Macrae unfortunately capsized his Club Feva during the second round and was forced to retire.

Bob Watson brought up the rear in the second Club Feva after experiencing difficulty with his spinnaker.

Watching on in his Solo, Colin Fullerton quickly learned from Robin’s earlier mistakes to cross the line in second place, followed by Bill Inches in third.

Club members later gather for the Commodore’s barbeque. Guests have said the evening brought the day’s activities to an enjoyable conclusion – with special praise reserved for organiser Pippa, and her partner Nick.

Perth Sailing Club’s summer points series continued on Sunday, with five boats taking to the water.

Slightly more breezy that Saturday’s installment – a south, south-westerly force four, which reached five when gusting – conditions were described as overcast.

John Ferguson, in his Albacore crewed by Oliver Williams, took an early lead after the first mark – he was later first over the line, followed by Bill and Gary.

The conditions weren’t helped by a pleasure cruiser powering through the course during the third round.

Gary Tait’s Laser was stuck in third position throughout, permanently behind John and Bill Inches.

Six boats took part in the second race, as Ewan Macdonald – crewed by Fraser Macdonald – joined the fleet.

There was torrential rain as the race got underway, as well as brisk winds. The outing was shortened and eventually abandoned during the third round.