We’re all out of superlatives for 2023 It’s been a colossal year of racing and regatta events, and the extraordinary is soon to become commonplace! The start of the 139th Sailing Season marked a notable and innovative shift with the introduction of ‘Foiling Sundays’ — a strategic move aimed to provide sailors engaged in traditional fleets with the chance to delve into the thrilling world of foiling. The initiative has swiftly proven to be a resounding success, as evinced by the consistent turnout of a vibrant fleet comprising 10 to 14 boards, injecting an element of excitement into the racing events. Foiling, with its dynamic and airborne nature, represents a cutting-edge facet of sailing that has gained significant traction in recent years. By incorporating Foiling Sundays into the annual sailing calendar, the Sailing Office is catering to the evolving interests and aspirations of the sailing community. The decision to offer sailors the opportunity to learn and engage in foiling not only enhances their all-round skills but also adds a fresh, exhilarating dimension to their overall RQYS sailing experience. Consistent participation underscores the appeal, as sailors eagerly embrace the challenge and thrill of navigating the waters on foils. The regular fleet size speaks to the sustained interest in and enthusiasm for exploring and mastering the art of foiling. These Sunday races undoubtedly contribute to a spectacle of speed, skill, and strategy, creating an electrifying atmosphere for both participants and spectators. It’s fantastic to see the participation of our Youth Squad sailors in the annual Australian Sailing Youth Championships in Yeppoon each September, with the decision to ‘migrate’ and compete reflecting the young sailors’ dedication and passion as well as the commitment of the sailing families supporting them. These experiences add significantly to the personal and skill development of the young sailors. Competing at other venues provides exposure, challenges, and learning opportunities that go beyond the technical aspects of sailing, including resilience, teamwork, and the ability to handle pressure. As 2023 draws to a close we could think things may be slowing down, muses a loquacious Mark Dingley, but this is only the start of a great 139th Sailing Season into 2024 — expanding increasingly-popular and very exciting foiling activities, attracting sailors and spectators alike. Mainsheet 2023 Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook 18 Sailing Manager’s report
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