By Di Pearson, ABRW Media

The Whitsunday Sailing Club’s Airlie Beach Race Week finished on a high note, with 10-17 knot winds for the final race on a triangle course on Pioneer Bay deciding the day’s victors and the overall winners in the various divisions.

Richard Fader’s Hanse 540E One O Nine was the eventual winner of Performance Cruising Division 1. Three boats were in the running, but the Tasmanian’s win today and his drop race in place, clinched the deal. [CYCA Member] Gerry Cantwell’s Marten 49 Carrera S from Victoria placed second, while Mal Robertson’s local boat Eureka II took third place.

“We did a triangle and a couple of sausages in 15-18 knots – perfect for us,” Fader explained. “It was a bit wet and grey, but who cares? We didn’t know what other boats we’d be sailing against here, but we are quick and had a good crew, including a couple of locals. 

“We’ll definitely be back. It’s a fantastic event, a great yacht club that really makes you welcome, and a great town. We are so lucky we were able to do it. We feel exceptionally fortunate. We will have a holiday up this way and then go home,” Fader said.

Event Chairman Ross Chisholm: “today’s race ends another Airlie Beach Race Week. It’s been an outstanding success from all sides,” said Event Chairman, Ross Chisholm. “We’re praying that life returns to some sort of normalcy next year and that those who missed out in 2020 and 2021 can join in again.

“I take this opportunity to thank all our sponsors, competitors and the media for supporting our annual event each and every year,” Chisholm ended.