Welcome to sunny Queensland where it hasn’t stopped raining and the outlook is for continued precipitation for most of the series. After a short delay, the invitation race got under way in a solid easterly with Rookie claiming at least the second best start. Dale Collings and Glenn Scheen ( Aussie Falcon - Victoria) lead at the first mark with several boats overlaying and having to play “catch up”. Not often we get to sail in such heavy rain with corresponding wind strength. When the rain finally killed the breeze, crews were bailing fiercely in very light conditions. Dale and Glenn were never headed to win from Karen and Russell ( Eagle Eye - WA) with Ken and Lee Bubb ( Bubbles – Qld) third. Rookie and Morton ( Fflashpoint) finished fifth but claimed a moral victory by being the only boat to carry the kite around the triangle. John and Deanna ( Fast Lane 4) had no luck with the breeze and failed to finish within the time limit. It all starts in earnest tomorrow with heats 1 and 2. Follow Sandgate Yacht Club Facebook page for more information.