Sunday 13th December 2009 was HOT and sunny. 8 hardy Ten Rater skippers fronted up to Champion Lakes for the 2009 State championships. Boy was it HOT out there.

Racing commenced in the heat at 10.00am and it soon became evident that the competition was hot too. The wind was blowing from the North-East - the opposite direction to a sea-breeze. It came and went during the morning, making PRO Sean Wallis's job even more difficult. Fortunately he had a great team behind him in Rob Mews, Rod Moss, Fred Webber and Alwyn Jarman. The officials made good decisions, which kept racing moving along.

Did I say how bloody HOT is was out there? Perth reached 39.5 degrees, but it was certainly hotter out at Champion Lakes!  Bink found the going a bit much, and discresion being the better part of valour saw him pack up and head for the air-conditioning.

Late in the morning the wind died to a zephyr, and a halt was called for lunch, at which time at least one skipper dropped dacks and went swimming to cool off.

Around 1.30pm, a sea-breeze finally reached the lake, and built to a solid B rig (bordering on C rig) strength.  Racing became rather exciting in the fresh wind, with boats flying downwind.

Gary Cotterell again showed why he is two time National Champion. With precise sailing and consistent boatspeed, Gary managed 10 wins from 14 races. Daylight was second.  

Unfortunately, several skippers suffered gear and electrical problems, and the fleet gradually diminished as the day progressed. The cold beer at the end of racing hardly touched the sides on the way down!

Congratulations to Gary, and many thanks to the Officials who toiled under such oppressive conditions.

Pictures in the Photo Gallery

Results as follows: