The Allen 2024 Flying 11 Nationals have been held at Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.
The fleet of 42 boats competed in mixed conditions with high humidity.
We handed over a big box at the start of the Aussie Skiff Nationals to the Flying 11 Association to allocate prizes.
It went down to the wire with Manly team Ash Napper and Taj Bridge on Brace taking the win on countback to the local boat with brothers Lucas and Zachary Patrick on Firefly. Both of these boats sailed extremely well and were able to get out of the most sticky situations.
Ash and Taj also won the Junior Skipper Title for those under 14 years of age. Third place went to Belmont boat Ondalay with Jadon Morris and Phoebe Pilgrim.
Phil enjoyed being out on the water last two days watching this incredible class of boats. He spent one day on the start boat and the last day on the water with the Commodore of the Host Club RQYS.
It was Commodore Warlows's first good look at the class and he was suitably impressed with the quality of the junior sailor's efforts on the water.
This year we introduced a sticker for the first-place boat as well as calico bags printed for each of the placegetters.
Yachts sometimes receive a brass/bronze plaque with a record of their season and we wanted to start something for the Flying Elevens. Now the Champion boat will have something noting its success.
Manly 16's also won the teams event with its top 4 finishing in the top 7 overall.
DeckHardware is looking forward to following up our Flying 11 class support with the NSW States out of Drummoyne Sailing Club on the 17-18 Feb.
Thanks to Allen who over many years now have greatly contributed to this sponsorship, along with LIROS Ropes for their support with their product. The Flying 11 Association, Competitors and family members much appreciated their support.
