Race Day 5 PPWCS -Mild weather for the last day of the Port Phillip Women's Championship Series - BLISS - at Royal Brighton Yacht Club

Race Day 5 of the PPWCS, which is also the RBYC BLISS Regatta, was sailed Sunday 1 May on a mild autumn day.

The 14 skippers and their crew enjoyed the short course windward / leeward format in 8-12 knots and flat water.

Competitors completed all three races within the finishing window, despite the variety of boats competing. Thanks to PRO Lou Hutton and the RBYC race management team for meeting the joint challenges of a shifting breeze and a wide range of performance handicaps.

At the prize giving afterwards competitors were enthusiastic about the day, with the short legs keeping crews very busy, especially around marks.

It was pleasing to see some boats and skippers who were new to PPWCS and BLISS, as well as the participation of 3 Dragons. The Dragon Fleet at RBYC has been a strong supporter of women's sailing throughout the season.

The outstanding performance of the day was Kate Jenkins and crew on Cartouche, who won all divisions of BLISS (PHS, AMS and ORC) as well as the Associates Cup (for RBYC boats and skippers).

The PPWCS winner for the day was Liah Hunter on Hartbreaker, with Cath Beaufort in Up N Go second, and Katie Holyroyd on Serious Yahoo third.

Afterwards, competitors were treated to a glass of champagne by sponsor Pommery, and enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere ashore. Prizes were provided by Yachtmaster, K2 Physiotherapy, Nutrimetics and RBYC.

Winners of the overall Port Phillip Women's Championship Series will be presented their trophies at the Victorian Sailing Awards on 9th September at Sandringham Yacht Club.

 Thank you to Niesje Hees  BLISS/ RBYC committee member for the above race report

Photography : Dave Hewison

For full results go to the She Sails website at

http://www.topyacht.net.au/results/as/2021/ppwcs/ppwcs/series.htm?ty=44362