by Mick Gwilliams
Rear Commodore, Port Douglas Yacht Club


The Port Douglas Yacht Club Coral Sea Cup was contested over the weekend and resulted in the third consecutive crown for Tim Preus sailing on the impressive Hanse, 'Ann Sea'.


Already having the 2008 and 2009 titles to his credit, the popular skipper was keen to make it three in a row.


Race 1 caused some immediate concern, however, as 'Ice' edged ahead to set the pace on the long passage around Low Isles and Snapper.


In a close fought contest Ice managed to hold off all challengers and led the field for the duration coming in a clear winner on elapsed time ten minutes ahead of Ann Sea.


Corrected times brought Ann Sea within 43 seconds of Ice highlighting the importance of every manoeuvre over the six hours taken to complete the course.
Vic Petrus sailing 'Whitecap' provided the closest challenge on day two in the two windward leeward buoy races.


In an ideal 10 to 15 knot breeze the fleet beat into the wind for three laps of the course in both races. Ann Sea and Whitecap swapped pole position on several occasions in Race 2 before Ann Sea asserted her dominance.


In the afternoon Ann Sea again proved to be the better of the contenders with a front-running lead from start to finish.


In a commendable effort Whitecap held onto second place in both heats but could not run down the formidable Ann Sea as she sailed into the history books to claim the Cup for the third consecutive year.


Final podium positions of the three race series was Ann Sea first on four points with a tie for second between Whitecap and Ice on seven points.


Race 2 and 3 of the Cup also accounts for Heat 1 and heat 2 of the Spring Series with Ann Sea now a clear series leader.


Skippers are always on the lookout for crew and anyone interested should contact Port Douglas Yacht Club.