The race start was delayed slightly due to lack of wind, but once underway it was smooth sailing with 15 knots under warm, sunny skies – until a change of wind in the Karori Rip halfway across, slowed the front runners to a crawl.
While some boats foundered in the dead spot, Satellite Spy, skippered by WK director Matt Kerr took the opportunity to close in on race leader, Blink.
The Marlborough Express reported: “[The wind change] resulted in a late challenge by Satellite Spy, carrying Spy Valley 2015 Sauvignon Blanc, which saw the two yachts engage in a tacking competition into Wellington Harbour, trading the lead back and forth, until Blink finally came out on top to cross the finish line at the Port Nicholson Yacht Club.”
Satellite Spy crossed the finish line in second place, and was second on handicap – a stellar effort!
The return trip home was no less exciting for the plucky sailors, facing high winds and four metre seas – a complete contrast with the previous day.
Congrats everyone who took part in this year’s race, and to Wine Marlborough and the Waikawa Boating Club, the organisers of this event.