The highlight of women’s racing on Lake Macquarie concluded with the last race of the SheSAILS Tri-Series on 20 March hosted by Wangi Amateur Sailing Club (WASC). The series was developed casually between the three competing clubs which included Lake Macquarie Yacht Club (LMYC) and Royal Motor Yacht Club Toronto (RMYCT).

The first race on January 16 was hosted by SheSAILS LMYC and won by Lyn McAllister, WASC, on Ruffian in almost perfect sailing conditions. The next race was hosted by SheSAILS RMYCT on February 13 in light winds which picked up in the afternoon and was won by Lee Mitchell, RMYCT on Rant and Rave. The winner of the third race in the series was Brenda Jump, RMYCT on Wallop also in light conditions that picked up in the afternoon.
The series was arguably the most social event on the sailing calendar with those that participated enjoying one of the best and certainly most unusual series held on the lake.

In total, between all three races, 60 boats competed. One aspect of the series which added a dimension was the hosting club formulating its own sailing instructions. A number of boats boasted a big representation by women, some with a full crew but the bare minimum was that there had to be a woman on the helm at all times. We were heavily dependent on the trust that was given in support by boat owners to whom we extend our heartfelt thanks.

The Tri-Series was won by Emily Fatches, WASC a young sailor who has proved the be a force in all three races. Emily sailed her boat Misguided which performed extremely well in the light wind.
We are honoured to be part of SheSAILS which has served to be a support and also a motivator in driving women’s sailing on all levels. The series was a great build up to International Woman’s Day and we remain proud to be part of Lakefest.

Above: Battling it out for the buoy.

Above: Emily Fatches, winner SheSAILS Tri-Series 2022 Lake Macquarie.

Above: Emily having loads of fun with her friends on Misguided. Dad….you’re fooling no one!

Above: The SheSAILS reps on the lake. Left to right. Lyn McAllister WASC, Wendy Watson RMYCT, Eleanor Cunningham LMYC.

Can’t wait till next Year!

Story submitted by: Wendy Watson