20/04/2026
Saturday’s Pelican Race on Corio Bay wrapped up not only a great day of club sailing, but also marked the final race of the Victorian Trailable Yacht Traveller Series for the season.
A strong fleet turned out across all three divisions, with moderate, shifting winds and a bit of sea w**d across the bay keeping crews thinking all the way around the course. The conditions rewarded smart tactics and good boat speed, making for some close and competitive racing.
In Division 1, Fat Bottom Girl (Brian Murphy) sailed a composed race to take the win on yardstick, finishing ahead of Out Of Exile (Bernard Spooner) after a solid duel on the water.
Division 2 featured the largest fleet and plenty of action throughout. Farrago (Michelle) secured first place with an impressive corrected time, followed by Pipalini (Mitchell Bayliss) and Five ‘oclock Somewhere (Shaun Buckner). A tightly packed group followed, including Rook, Overtime, and Sequoia, while Moon Chaser, Starry Night, O’Really II, and Vintage Red all fought hard in the mid-fleet. Dot and Beau Brummel rounded out the division after a demanding race.
In Division 3, Safarry (Glenn Wilson) delivered a standout performance to take the win, with Slow And Low (Chris Hall) and Jaffa (Brendan Brown) filling the minor placings. Sky Hoot and Sea Dove completed the fleet, while Flash was unfortunately unable to finish.
As the final race of the Victorian Trailable Traveller Series, the Pelican Race was a fitting conclusion — great racing, a strong turnout, and classic Corio Bay conditions. Thanks to all competitors and volunteers who made the day, and the series, such a success.
