Twenty-eight boats competed in the Canaipa Cup over the weekend, with strong fleets across three divisions: Division 1, Division 2 (Cruising), and the Trailerable Division.
Saturday provided near-perfect racing conditions, with a steady 12–15 knot breeze accompanying competitors on the passage to Canaipa. The conditions particularly suited the sports boats, with Rush making an impressive start and leading the fleet before unfortunately retiring after approximately 45 minutes of racing due to damage.
Following Rush’s retirement, No Dough and Kerb battled for supremacy, with No Dough eventually overtaking Kerb to claim Line Honours at the finish off Potts Point.
In Division 2 (Cruising), Intrigue II sailed consistently to take victory on handicap, while in the Trailerable Division, Geronimo secured the win on PHS after a strong performance across the course.
After a fantastic day on the water, competitors and volunteers gathered in the Long House for the presentation evening, followed by a superb two-course dinner hosted by the amazing caretakers, Peter and Erica, assisted by a highly efficient team of volunteers. Their hospitality once again made the Canaipa experience a highlight of the sailing calendar.
Day 2 greeted sailors with a spectacular sunrise and a much-appreciated bacon and egg roll before preparations began for the return race to Waterloo Bay. While the breeze was slightly lighter than the previous day, it did little to temper the competitive spirit, with an aggressive start setting the tone for a fast sprint home.
Line Honours was tightly contested between the 40-footers Double Black and Kerb, with Double Black crossing the finish line just 10 seconds ahead. On PHS in Division 1, Double Black also claimed victory, ahead of Outsider NT in second and Lisdillon in third.
Division 2 honours went to Artemis Eos, with La Quinta finishing second and Intrigue II third. In the Trailerable Division, Huey took the win, followed by Geronimo in second and Shiddah in third.
The overall Canaipa Cup winner was Cameron Lester and the crew of Artemis Eos, whose consistent performance across the weekend earned them the prestigious trophy.
The Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron extends its thanks to the volunteers, race management team, Peter and Erica, and all competitors who contributed to another successful and memorable Canaipa Cup.