On Saturday, July 2, 21 boats showed up for the start of the 22nd annual Malaspina Regatta, hosted by the Garden Bay Sailing Club.
The 10 nautical mile race began between Martin and Pearson islands at the entrance to Pender Harbour. The conditions seemed perfect, with a light five-knot breeze from the northwest, under a sunny sky. However, as so often happens in sailing, the start proved to be one of the more challenging starts that skippers have had to face for some years. The tidal flow in the start area produced very confused seas, which resulted in a few boats going over the line early, and many being caught between tide and wind until well after the gun was fired.
The initial leg took the boats out to Hospital Reef.
The first to round the mark was the trimaran Drifter, skippered by Ron Badley, followed by BC Navigator with Tom Barker at the helm, and Peregrine, skippered by David Twentyman, all of whom had managed to get good starts.
The wind switched to a 10-knot south-easterly as the boats were nearing the mark, which made the second leg to Ackland Rock a spinnaker run. There were some exciting moments as Peregrine caught up to, and managed to sail over the top of, BC Navigator just before rounding the top mark.
The final leg proved challenging for most of the boats due to the very sloppy and choppy seas that prevailed along Nelson Island. Although the wind continued at a steady five to seven knots, many boats became stalled as they tried to fight against the strong tidal conditions.
Seven, skippered by David Pritchard, managed to come from behind and forged ahead of Peregrine into third position on this leg. BC Navigator, that had chosen to go out into the straits, increased their lead into a comfortable second position.
Unfortunately, due to the poor sea conditions, 10 boats did not finish, as they had exceeded the five-hour allotted time for the race.
The winner of the first overall trophy was Pritchard, and the trophy for first over the line was awarded to Badley.
Following the race, some 120 people, made up of skippers, families and crew, met at Fisherman's Resort and Marina in Garden Bay, where there was a barbecue, presentation of awards and door prizes. Many thanks to Ron Breadner and his pals for the wonderful music, and to Craig and Kent for their melodic bagpiping. It was a great family event enjoyed by all.
