After a number of years of relative inactivity, the Extra class finally held a national championships at Zeekoei Vlei Yacht Club – and in so doing, proved that the years since the last nationals have not resulted in a dwindling of numbers.

Excellent organisation by the likes of Stephen du Toit and Ian MacRobert saw almost every local boat on the water, along with a number from Durban – resulting in an impressive 32 entries for the three day regatta shared with the 420 class.

Strong winds on day one gave way to a light wind regatta characterised by competitive, close races throughout the fleet with the leaderboard changing often, heavily contested mark roundings and no less than six different race winners. Consistency helped Gareth Blackenburg to win an impressive first position, while Ryann Collins beat Dave Rae to second by just one point. Just behind them were Stephen du Toit, Andrea Giovannini and Rick Nankin.

During the class AGM a commitment was made not to allow a return to the recent period of inactivity; the new committee is organising winter sailing in Simonstown and will be promoting specific regattas over the next year to build momentum for the next nationals. Cape sailors also plan to travel to Durban for a regatta there should their numbers grow as hoped.

Further information about these plans can be found on the new class website – www.extrasailing.com – and the committee can be contacted for help in getting involved in the class.

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This report was written for Sailing magazine.

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