It's good work - 2009 Melbourne Latitude Series

8:54 PM Sat 21 Nov 2009 GMT

'Kevin Robinson’s No Fearr - Many thanks to Heemskirk Consolidated for their support of the ORCV - Melbourne Latitude Series' John Curnow

When you can get it, that is.

Kevin Robinson and the gang on 'No Fearr' were the first to cross the finish line of the 2009 Melbourne Latitude Series, Bass Strait Race. It's also a great result for the Ocean Racing Club of Victoria's principal sponsor, Heemskirk Consolidated, as their CEO was the driver.

It is also fantastic that some of Kevin's crew, who were going out to get more ocean experience, did not have to face too much of Bass Strait this time. That super-soft Southeasterly, which turned NorEast as it built, did get them back to the Heads before slack water, however. Kevin commented over the radio that the strongish NorEaster and the remnants of the Ebb tide, 'Sure did make it interesting!' A lot better than a huge SouWester confronting the outgoing tide thankfully...

Allegresse - First 'newbie' back inside the Heads. Nearly on the podium too! - Melbourne Latitude Series - John Curnow

One of the best things about the Melbourne Latitude Series is that the way they finish, is the way they stand on the podium. This is because each boat's turning latitude has been calculated out based on their handicap.

The Top Five is as listed here and it looks like there was some very close racing towards the end - just what the handicapper likes. Here's how they finished; -

1. 'No Fearr', RBYC at 12:27:36
2. 'Spirit of Freya', RBYC at 12:39:02
3. 'Remedy', RMYS at 12:49:25
4. 'Escapade', HBYC at 12:49:49
5. 'The Secretary', SYC at 12:51:04

Given that the Melbourne Latitude Series is about training for the ocean, it is wonderful that second went to Joanne Harpur. She bought 'Spirit of Freya' not that long ago after doing really well in the last MLS.

The first 'newbie' Skipper home was Kathryn De Garis on her 'Allegresse'. At one time they looked like they might just get on the podium, but had to take seventh with a time of 12:54:42. No doubt that result will just add to their motivation to come out and do more.

Spirit of Freya -Seems Joanne Harpur really did get the ocean racing bug. Bought her own boat to prove it. - Melbourne Latitude Series - John Curnow

The fleet finished and headed straight for a drink with our hosts, the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron, just a little further along the picturesque Mornington peninsula.

The BYS to Sandringham Yacht Club (back in suburban Melbourne) Pursuit Race kicks off today in a stronger breeze, which should enable the bigger boats to stretch their legs out somewhat.

by John Curnow