by Greg Roche
The whole event was blessed day after day with typical summer nor easters, something we haven’t seen for many years. The championship top ten was dominated by NSW boats but in particular Rohan Nosworthy, from the central coast NSW skippering Lindsay Mason’s boat “Water Rat”. In an almost faultless performance, Rohan won six races and finished second in the last. This was Rohan’s third attempt at the titles. Such was their dominance they also pushed the fleet handicap out and then some by handicapper.
Second place went to Keegan Codd & Sam Prior sailing “Prawn Star” from Lake Cootharaba Qld. These young 16 and 15 year olds, under the mentorship of Geoff Henry, made a lot of sacrifices to get down to the titles, Sam is a first year apprentice sail maker for Ultimate Sails Qld, and made his own sails. They were very consistent throughout the series and won the last heat in the strongest breeze. They were part of a new group of Qld MG14 sailors that made the trip down. They now say that the cup will be making a one way trip to the Lake next year !
Third place went to “Final Phase” skippered by veteran sailor Greg Roche with 13 year old Daniel Yaxley crewing from Toronto.
Fourth went to “Beat Route” skippered by Jeremy Watson with Sarah Richards, fifth “Gecko” skippered by Ashley Banks, making a cameo appearance after joining the Belmont 16’s, with Tim Frew/ Gerry May Banks crewing. Gecko took out 5th on a count back tie with “Filthy Fase” Bob Taig & Dylan Moore all from NSW.
The handicap went to “Synergy” a 21 year old boat skippered by Ross Hansen and crewed by Hayley Jackson. Second place went to “Toogara” Chris and Sam Monkhouse and third to Final Phase.
The next nationals will be hosted by the Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club Qld. To be sponsored by BARTERCARD, this will probably be the biggest sponsored event in the history of the MG 14 Association.