Hi everyone, I was wondering just how hard the breakwater to beacon race is? Obviously its difficult, but is it something that only the local pros do or is it pretty acheivable? Im 18 currently in the straps, harness etc, tacking easily and hitting about 40% of my planing gybes on a 180 litre jp board (basically a boat) I've been windsurfing for a few years on and off but have recently got more into it, and i've got a 96 litre f2 I could use but that would be pretty hard to sail that far. Today I windsurfed in the ocean for the first time and didn't have too many problems either. I've got sails from a couple of year old 6.2m pryde saber to a 3.7 north wave sail and a few in between, so do you guys think I'd make it round the course alright?

Thanks, Tom from geelong

The answer really lies in the weather on the day. If it is a normal seabreeze afternoon, 15-20knots then it sounds like you would be perfectly capable. If it is windy, 23-25 knots or more it can be pretty challenging, big waves and pretty hard getting back from the beacon downwind. You also have a shore break to contend with.
Generally though the run out and back is quite doable for an advanced intermediate level sailor.
My advice would be to come along with the intention of giving it ago, but if the weather does look outside of your comfort zone then just watch and enjoy the BBQ after.

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mr love said...

The answer really lies in the weather on the day. If it is a normal seabreeze afternoon, 15-20knots then it sounds like you would be perfectly capable. If it is windy, 23-25 knots or more it can be pretty challenging, big waves and pretty hard getting back from the beacon downwind. You also have a shore break to contend with.
Generally though the run out and back is quite doable for an advanced intermediate level sailor.
My advice would be to come along with the intention of giving it ago, but if the weather does look outside of your comfort zone then just watch and enjoy the BBQ after.

I second that.

They have support boats out as well don't they?

Anyone know how many? Might give someone thinking about giving it a go a bit more confidence if they know there is an added safety element.

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Windsurf0709 said...

They have support boats out as well don't they?

Anyone know how many? Might give someone thinking about giving it a go a bit more confidence if they know there is an added safety element.

Yes there is support craft. The Hampton Life Savers help support this event through SHQ and Windsurfing Victoria.

Alright thanks guys, hopefully ill come up and be able to have a shot if the breeze is good. Do I need to be a windsurfing vic member or anything else special?

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sailingkid said...

Alright thanks guys, hopefully ill come up and be able to have a shot if the breeze is good. Do I need to be a windsurfing vic member or anything else special?

Yes you do for event insurance. Check out www.wv.org.au for more details.