The first day of the 2019 Victorian Optimist States has kicked off with a great day of racing for all fleets. We had a slight delay to the start until a sea breeze kicked in at 5 knots which then built during the day until a beautiful 14-18 knots breeze settled in.

Tackers Carnival had a great day which started with knot tying practice and balancing games in the water. The Tackers Carnival continues tomorrow and has been a bit hit with families who have younger siblings.

Green fleet had a fun departure from the shore to the music of 'Its not easy being Green" by Kermit The Frog. The fleet left as a group with a lead boat to assist the kids in finding their course. The sailors were able to complete three races with Lottie Griffith (SYC) currently leading on 5 points, Leigh Harvie (WYC/MYC) on narrowly behind on 6 points and Jamie Beck (SYC) in third place on 12 points.

Intermediate fleet also enjoyed some fantastic racing easily completing 3 races with the top 4 places all closely contested. Natalie Gleeson (SSCBC) is currently leading on 4 points, Callum Simmons (IHYC/RGYC) close behind on 7 points and Liam Stevens (SYC/MTYC)

The 61 boat fleet of Open fleet took a few attempts to get the racing away with a few general recalls and AP's as we waited for the breeze to settle in. The course was a great length and really tested the sailors knowledge of working with the shifts as they presented themselves. Leading Open fleet is Matty Goss (RBYC/SYC) on 5 points, closely followed by Eddie Reid (SBSC Tasmania) on 11 points and Phillip Cripsey (RBYC/ASC) on 23 points. Racing is very competitive in this fleet with many of the best sailors from Australia and two sailors from New Zealand having travelled to Victoria to join our fleet for a weekend of racing.

Racing continues tomorrow - more sea breeze forecast and plenty more sunshine.

RESULTS LINK: http://sailingresults.net/site/event/80271/