Susan Hextell
by Anne Mussett, Publicity Officer, Queensland Sabre Sailing Association.
Australian Sabre Sailing Association Nationals were held in Tasmania on 28 December 2009 – 3 January 2010, hosted by Bellerive Yacht Club.
There was a record fleet of 61 boats - a great effort indeed. Susan Hextell from Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron represented Queensland - the only entrant from Queensland, making a 5048 km round trip
Susan wore a maroon penny with a big white Q over a white outline map of Qld. One could say “she carried the whole of Queensland on her back”Two Invitation races were held in a strong WNW breeze on 28 Dec, and Heats 1 & 2 on 29 Dec in equally strong SE winds. Long day on 29 Dec with SE 12 to 15 knots for Heat 3 easing 5 to 8 knots for Heat 4. More moderate SE sea breeze on 30th Dec for Heats 5 & 6. Gusty NW winds in the 15-25 knot range on 31st Dec for Heats 7 & 8. Jan 2nd much more typical Tassie weather – low 20′s, and strong 20 – 25 knot westerly which turned into 40 knot + winds needless to say boats were capsized everywhere plus some even cart-wheeling across the water. Racing was cancelled for the day whilst rescue crews were kept busy retrieving boats etc. No injuries were reported and very little damage to boats.
Susan sailed consistantly and finished every race. She did Queensland proud and is to be congratulated on such a gutsy effort.
Full results can be seen on http://www.sabre.org.au/tasmania/200910SabreNationalsinHobart.html