Who is Mister Lucky? Launched in March 2016, she (he?) was named after the John Lee Hooker song, and has undergone many back-up and safety systems upgrades. A light-weight, powerful hull with hard chine, twin rudders and lead keel contribute to this Sun Fast’s speed, balance and stability on all tacks. Suited to solo, double-handed, and crewed regattas, the Sun Fast 3600 is designed to compete in both inshore and offshore races. Mark and Rohan have competed in all forms of racing, recently remarking that together they would have easily amassed well in excess of 10,000nm racing on Mister Lucky. The distinctive artwork was inspired by ‘Sailor Gerry’s’ tattoos, renowned for their intricate maritime motifs and nautical symbolism, and these have become an integral part of Mister Lucky’s identity. It’s a unique look, on bows and flanks, to be sure, and there’s little doubt Rohan, for one, enjoys explaining the backstory to the curious. “At races and introducing a bit of fun,” Rohan said, “Mark and I are often seen handing out non-permanent tattoos to the boats and onshore followers. In a recent race in NZ, the entire fleet got involved, getting adventurous in the placement of these tattoos — it was a real laugh and great sense of camaraderie. There’s one great drone shot in particular …” But that’s a story for another day, along with many more, no doubt. We wish Rohan, Mark, Mister Lucky and all the other 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart entrants good fortune in this year’s big race … and we’ll be glued to our Yellowbrick apps. n CITATION announced at the Seniors’ and Club Member of the Year Presentations night on 16 June 2023 in the Girdis Room: “There’s quiet achievers and then there is Rohan Wood. The larger-than-life character has overcome huge challenges and adversity this season. Rohan is no stranger to double-handed sailing and his usual sailing partner was unable to sail for an extended period. Rather than take a sabbatical, Rohan recruited a mate and represented RQYS aboard “Mister Lucky” at state, national and international events. Rohan competed the doublehanded in the Brisbane to Hamilton Island Yacht Race, the Sydney Hobart and the Round North Island Race. He arrived in Constitution Dock with a broken rib after the gruelling iconic race to Hobart. For displaying values such as courage, resilience and tenacity, both on and off the water, we are pleased to present the Sailor of the Year to Rohan Wood." n Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron Yearbook Mainsheet 2023 59 Sailor of the Year
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