SEVEN skiffs sailed in the inaugural Manning River Championship including the Taree Cup.
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The handicap start on the first day was a south west course, four laps from the bridge to Dumaresq Island shortened to three laps in a fading breeze. Past Manning River VS champion Michael Northam used his local knowledge to put Kismet into the lead which he held onto win. Ramona II, with locals Doug Milligan and Craig Hunter, finished second.
The Sunday race was a scratch start in a 10 knot southerly breeze. Ramona II led from start to finish to win the Taree Cup and the overall championship. Uncle Fred, crewed by locals Adam Cause, Richard and Jeremy Dodds won this race on handicap to gain third place in the championship.
A number of very enthusiastic spectators were in the rigging area interested in these historic wooden skiffs. Taree Aquatic Club's sailing committee provided a very smoothly run competition with goods starts and appropriately shortened course on the Saturday as the breeze faded.
" All agree that Taree is a great venue for these skiffs,'' vice commodore Col Gillespie said.
The club has extended an invitation to the AHSSA to conduct another event or an annual regatta here.