GREG TORPY WINS QUEENSLAND MARBLEHEAD CHAMPIONSHIP

The Queensland Marblehead Championship was conducted this year by the Brisbane Radio Yacht Club at the newly established venue at Carbrook.

Queensland entries this year were a little disappointing with only one representative from outside the SEQ corner. Fortunately three entrants from NSW bolstered the numbers somewhat. While the entries where small in numbers the quality was high with 3 Vibes, 3 NRW’s of different vintages, 2 Abacus Two’s, BG’s new Anarchy and single UK designs Starkers Cubed and Rok.

The weather forecasters 5kn variable breezes was near spot on and racing was delayed until the direction settled somewhat. Racing got underway in light variable conditions of little pressure and when lunch was called only three races were completed.

It was soon clear the current Australian Champion Greg Torpy and runner up Brad Gibson would be the ones to beat with Greg getting the upper hand early. Daniel Weizman and David Turton were neck and neck with Josh Torpy sailing Bill Wright’s NRW 3 in his first competitive outing in the Class not far behind. 19 races were completed on the first day.

Sunday saw the breeze settle earlier and freshen slightly but the three Worlds team members competing and hoping for stronger breezes were to be disappointed. Sunday racing saw little change in positions with Greg firming his lead and Brad a clear second. It was close for third with Daniel and David locked together for most of the day. David won the last race with Daniel back in 8th place but it was not quite enough with Daniel getting the nod by 0.2 points. Bill Wright was presented with the Sportsmanship Award.

It was a great Championship with PRO handling the difficult conditions well. The BRYC members and ladies made all welcome with great hospitality, food and facilities.

Graeme Turk