Hangover Race 2023
Every year we joke about how sailors should be seriously hungover to qualify for the Hangover Race. This year, we believe it was extra authentic, as the Race Committee sounded like he had one on the VHF Radio when giving instructions to the fleet of 13. Though the winds could not compare to what we had on the last day of 2022, it was still great NE Sailing conditions on a pennant 4 course. Having not sailed to Tekong Buoy for many months due to the inconsistent weather, it was satisfying to finally race Course 4, a natural beat to the north-western tip of Pulau Tekong and long run back along the Kuala Johor Straits.
At the tip of the fleet, it was a fierce tussle between the quartet of Trimarans, with Bula leading the competition. It was a close fight to the very end, and Bula emerged victorious by the slimmest of margins – 6 seconds ahead of Phoenix on corrected time. In 3rd place we have Miss Visayan – helmed by guest Skipper, Ad Smit from Adona! Jan Verdaasdonk had a great day on water as well – this is the first time we have Ragnarok racing with us! Despite missing out on podium, she had a respectable finish, trailing just 2 minutes behind the more experienced trio.
Not far off from the Multihull fleet, the Keelboat IRC Class also had plenty of excitement on the course, a two-way tekong tango between Waka Tere and Silhouette quickly developed on the beat to Tekong Buoy. It was kept close all the way to finish, but Waka Tere excelled both across the line and on corrected time. After an extended break due to boat issues, the mighty Skybird finally shook off the rust, sailing well to keep within a stone’s throw from the leading pair to claim 3rd across the line and 2nd on corrected time!
The biggest fleet was none other than the Keelboat PY Class! Boasting 6 boats, the fleet welcomed back Brio and Genesis after their long hiatus – great to see increased participation all round. At the top, Marut had 2 persons onboard today, which made a huge difference to his performance. With the extra strength and weight, the Jeanneau Fun looked like she was having fun on the course, staying well ahead of bigger and faster boats to claim line honours and handicap victory. It was a day for the small boats, as Brio scored a 2nd place finish on corrected time, ahead of Jock in 3rd. Bravo Zulu to Pedro and Lionel for the 2-man effort and never-say-die attitude – bouncing back from a false start to finish off as podium winners in 3rd.
Congratulations to all the winners – the Race Officer is now signing out to continue nursing his hangover. Happy 2023 everyone.
Results
- Sunday Series I 2023 (Race 5) - 5th June 2023
- Twilight Series I 2023 (Race 5) - 4th June 2023
- CSC IRC, PY & One-Design Keelboat Championships 2023 (Day 2) - 29th May 2023