NEW ZEALAND - First ever weta nationals a success - December 2007

These reports from sailors in the NZ Weta nationals held at Lake Taupo 1-2 December  2007. "Last weekend the Laser North Island championships were held on Lake Taupo.  But, more importantly, amongst the sea of white sails could be seen the colourful hulls and gennakers of the inaugoral Weta Nationals.  Fickle and light winds didn't detract from the excitement and tension during the 6 race regatta.  The skill level in the fleet was variable, with huge improvement by all leading to a pretty close field by the last race. The highlights had to be Brent Charlesworth completing (and winning) the second day of racing with his two young boys crewing, and Roger Kitchen demonstrating the strength of his Wetas by ramming poor MIke Eaglan...or was it a new racing strategy?  Thanks to the NZ Weta Sailing Association and Taupo Yacht Club for a fabulous event.  Cant wait until next year." "The first Weta Nationals was a great success, everything could not have been better. The weather was superb, although a more consistant wind would have made for better sailing, that aside we really enjoyed ourselves. The facilities, great , as was the host yacht club. Meeting other Weta owners and enjoying a good mix of familly fun with competative racing made for a great weekend allround and one not to be missed next year."

The event was a great success that involved a mix of family oriented activities - relay races, prize gathering and destination cruises - and some serious racing. Congratulations to Brent Charlesworth who claimed the title of "Weta Punga" - our first national champion. Final results:

Singlehanded

1st   Brent Charlesworth
2nd  Michael Eaglen
3rd   Roger Kitchen

Multihanded

1st   Michael Kerr and Biddi Clarke
2nd  Pete Richards and Sharelle Nunn
3rd   Alan Hounsome and Dennis Hounsome