ACO 14th Musto Skiff World Championship 2025, Sydney, Australia - Day 4
by Paul Newman 10 Jan 20:40 UTC
2-10 January 2025
It was the penultimate day of the ACO 14th Musto Skiff 2025 Worlds, and the fleet was presented with an unseasonably low-pressure system bringing with it rain and a strong southerly. There were 4 races planned for the day to make up for no racing on Day 3, so it was going to be a big day ahead for the nearly 40-strong international skiff fleet!
Race 6 started in 20 knots with even bigger gusts. The big boys relished in the strong breezes, but it was challenging conditions for everyone. Jon Newman and Andy Tarboton fought it out for the whole race, but it was Andy who prevailed to take the win with Jon not far behind. Eddie Bridle put together a good race to come in third.
Race 7 was much the same, but the gusts were getting stronger, causing plenty of spectacular spills and many boats hitting ludicrous speed with the kites up. Rob Richardson threw his hat back into the ring and fought it out with Andy. Close behind them were Danny Boatman and Jono Shelley, who were also having a go and mixing it up. However, it was Rob who took the win this time, with Andy coming in second and Danny taking third.
By Race 8 the weather was showing little improvement. A carbon copy of the previous race, the fleet set off the start line in heavy rain showers, with strong gusts continuing to keep it interesting and challenge the sailors as they tried to keep their boats upright. Rob and Danny continued their good form to claim first and second place, with Jon Newman in third and Andy being pushed back into fourth.
Race 9 started as a rain squall pushed through, swinging the breeze 60 degrees just before the fleet started. The top group raced to the pin end before tacking as the gun went off and took off upwind. This time, it was Matthias Houvenagel who took the race win in the slightly lighter breeze, with Jon finishing up in second and Eddie in third.
The biggest day of the regatta in the book left Jon and Andy extremely close on points and Rob not far behind. At the close of Day 4, Andy Tarboton was sitting in first place with Jon Newman in second and Rob Richardson in third.
The final day of the regatta is set to go ahead with two races to decide the 2025 World Champion, and with just points between the top places, there is still everything to sail for, and it could be anyone's regatta to win!
Race results at www.woollahrasailingclub.org.au/series/10553