Despite a sluggish start in very light conditions, the event gained momentum with the rising winds, igniting a surge of enthusiasm and a captivating spectacle. With these foiling boards boasting the remarkable capability to nearly double the speed of the wind, races unfolded with an exhilarating showcase of skill and precision. Aligned with the global celebration of International Women’s Day, the Brisbane Women’s Keelboat Cup had substantial backing from vessel owners, sponsors, and dedicated sailors. Two days’ intense racing struck a harmonious balance between competition and enjoyment, fostering a spirited atmosphere on the water. The Cup exemplified the fusion of skill, camaraderie, and a commitment to recognising and empowering women in the world of sailing. March saw another significant weekend featuring the Moreton Bay Multihull Regatta, the Etchells Brisbane Fleet Championships, Division Yachts, and the SE QLD Schools Teams finals racing. The inaugural Brisbane Race Week featured diverse race formats, including hot laps and passage races, culminating in a final pursuit race to determine the overall winner. In spite of only modest participation in its debut year, sailors, having experienced the unique format, anticipate the event’s growth and consider it one to watch in the future. During the winter off-season, there was no shortage of excitement. In May, the Squadron played host to a series of spectacular events, starting with the Hobie Queensland Championships, followed by the prestigious Etchells’ Waterloo Cup and the lively PIF Regatta. The season concluded on a high note with the much-anticipated Canaipa Cup, a festive celebration that marked the perfect finale to an action-packed month. Traditionally, June is the month of Presentation Nights, and sailors young and old were honoured for remarkable achievements, the Juniors partying their night away with live music pumped out by some familiar faces! A note from Head Coach Adrian Finglas It’s been a big 12 months since starting back at RQYS after a 10year break on the chilly waters of Port Phillip Bay — and I must say I am glad to be home! The Moreton Bay conditions are so amazing to teach all levels of sailing: we are so lucky at RQYS! Since returning to the Squadron, it’s been fantastic to build the team again, starting with our huge coach and instructor network. Currently, we have 35 part-time staff on the books, that we rotate to keep the schools and Australian courses ticking along each week. RQYS Academy is at maximum capacity on every front and our next move will be to see if we can grow our current delivery in 2024. Youth Squad sailors are starting to learn about high performance, with many travelling overseas and interstate to gain the experience. With 2032 firmly in every child’s mind, we now have an incredible opportunity to help ensure all our young sailors are involved in some capacity with the Games. Read more (plus some amazing Academy stats!) in the young instructors feature on page 42. Mainsheet 2023 Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook 20 Sailing Manager’s report (cont’d)
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