THE first race in the offshore series was held on Sunday with division one leaving from the marina, providing a head start for division two.
Pleasant conditions with a light north westerly wind followed the Geographe Bay Yacht Club for the first hour or two but by midday the wind had strengthened, the sky became overcast and the threat of a storm became increasingly likely.
The division two boats wisely retired, contending with strong wind and rain as they returned home.
Division one battled on, missing some of the storm by favouring a course further seaward.
The three lead yachts finished the race a good hour in front of their smaller fellow competitors who bravely slogged on in increasingly foul weather.
At 2pm the other classes gathered for their races but with wind gusts above recommended strengths a decision was made to abandon racing.
The pelicans raced early, taking their favourite course.
They had a special couple of races, the first up to the Jetty where they came ashore and enjoyed an ice cream and the second departed from the Jetty, back down to the yacht club.
Sonic won the first race and also won the second race in a very close finish with Waikikamukau who put in a fabulous effort.
Results and presentations will be held next week.
