2:50 AM Tue 13 Apr 2010 GMT
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'The start line off d'Albora Marina breakwater at Nelson Bay - great for spectators - Sail Port Stephens'
andrea francolini
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This morning's cool and blowy westerly is lightening off somewhat as the Commodore's Cup fleet circles off the d'Albora Marina breakwater at Nelson Bay prior to their 12.30pm race start.
Weather guru Kenn Batt has forecast southerlies tending sou'east in the 8-16 knot range. The weather eye view from the Sail Port Stephens media centre is plenty of sparkling sunshine on the water and easing winds, which will suit the lighter boats. If Batt's on the money however, during the course of the afternoon there's a good chance the breeze will swing left and dial back up again.
'For those who like reaching, today's race could be a bit of fun,' said principal race officer Denis Thompson at this morning's daily briefing.
Today the two Commodore's Cup divisions will be sent on the 14 nautical mile Pub to Pub course to be sailed from the start line to Shoal Bay to Salamander Shores to Soldiers Point, around Boondaba Island and the Corlette mark to the finish back off the breakwater.
The race committee has the option to shorten the course due to a lack of wind, which is good news for the scurvy seafarers. They be wanting to come ashore nice an' early to book their dinner vantage spot for tonight's outdoor viewin' of Pirates of the Caribbean 3.
Once the booty has been handed out from today's race it will be rums and plenty of aaarrrrggghhhh talk as lasses, landlubbers, gentlemen o' fortune and scallywags meet at d'Albora Marina for the marina movie under the stars starting at 7.30pm.
Click here to view the remainder of the regatta social program
www.sailportstephens.com.au/index.php?page=102&;SID
www.sailportstephens.com.au
by Lisa Ratcliff
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Manly, QLD
