by Mick Gwilliams
Rear Commodore, Port Douglas Yacht Club

Race 12 of the 2011 Poseidon Sailaway Club Championship was the final race of the Winter Series. Five yachts came to the start despite three regular contenders being absent.

Making her debut appearance in 2011 club racing was Sea Wizard skippered by Bob White. Known more for his cruising exploits Bob showed that his big Catalina can hold her own on a race course placing both second over the line and second on handicap.

However, the day belonged to Port FM Mais Oui as the shifting 10 knot breeze and slight sea state made ideal conditions for the J24.

In a show of expert seamanship the crew led by stand in skipper Garry White led from start to finish to record a rare line honours and handicap double win to take out the Winter Series.

On the day Ice, skippered by Helen Gwilliams, secured third place ahead of T Break (Robert Mair) and Indigo (Colin Simpson).

Final positions for the six race Winter Series are Port FM Mais Oui first with Ice and Magic tied for second ahead of Indigo and Tau Ceti tied for fourth.
    
The club championship resumes with Race 1 of the Spring Series on October 8. Port FM Mais Oui holds a commanding lead on 11.5 points, from Magic (18) and Ann Sea (18.5).

The two day Coral Sea Cup on September 17 and 18 is the next event on the club calendar and looks set to be a stand out event as the racing fleet grows from strength to strength.