I headed down Saturday morning with my 9 rig ready for the nice medium wind conditions. When I arrived at RBYC the wind was pushing the best part of 20 knots (Fawkner Beacon). There were discussions as to whether anyone would go out but there was a general consensus of, ok sod it, let's go! Incidentally, while rigging, I spotted my old Laser in the boat park (198120). Nice to see (the boat formerly known as Cereal Killer) her still in one piece!

We all headed out and once we were past the breakwater were met with about 1 m waves and quite the breeze!

Race 1 got underway, and it was windy! Controls on tight but I had a good start and played the shifts to the windward mark and I went round just behind some great sailors (a world champion/Australian champion, current state champion, and a guy 2nd at the Nationals). Did I mention it was windy? Worked hard and stayed pretty close to them (the fast ones) through the windward-return course, and I was 1st in my fleet. During the race, the wind picked up even more towards the end.

After the first race, the wind was such that I decided to head back in as it was starting to vibrate my whole rig, which usually happens when it is 20 knots+. The next races in my fleet were won by a nice cup of tea, checking Facebook, and some really nice hot chips. I got three 2nd place finishes. I did go to the marina to take pics of everyone else coming in.

Sunday was supposed to be windier, and it was. There were a lot of reluctant sailors who had an extra cup of coffee before heading out. I decided to go out in the 9 rig and see what it was like. It was windy and gusty! There were two races scheduled so I decided on safety first and I just trundled round the course (triangle sausage) taking absolutely no risks and making sure I made it round upright. Luckily, I still finished first in my class. The last race was also windy and I repeated my trick of making it round unscathed, dry and also winning my race. Thank you to Anna for the on-water pics and videos.

In the end I was first 9 rig at the states and I triumphed over the strong fleet of; staying warm, cup of tea, don't break anything, you'll capsize and have to be rescued, and it's too windy for the 9 rig. Quite the formidable opponents!