Australian and Victorian Championships – Ballarat Yacht Club
Three RBYC members contested the National and Victorian Championships at Ballarat Yacht Club over Easter. The Hansa classes are an example of Universal Design, boats created for everyone to sail, regardless of age, gender, or disability. They provide a level playing field for everyone to race on.
Sean Hogan, Ali Weatherly Hogan, and Charlie Weatherly all had podium finishes in their classes. It was a huge relief for World Para Sailor Ali, as she just completed a Masters Degree while spending the past three years planning and organizing the event. Charlie was a key driver in the logistics of arranging delivery, measuring, weighing, launching, even rigging many of the boats. A total of 51 competitors raced 49 boats in four Hansa classes. Many competitors mentioned the event was the best National Hansa regatta they had participated in.
Lake Wendouree provided challenging conditions for the fleet with very gusty conditions and constantly variable winds. All eight races were completed, 3 on Saturday, 3 on Sunday, and 2 on Monday. Sean battled his chronic pain and fatigue, managing to complete 7 of the 8 heats. The three RBYC members finished as follows:
Victorian Championships Australian Championships
Ali First Liberty class Second Liberty class
Sean Second Liberty class Third Liberty class
Charlie First 2.3 class First 2.3 class
Charlie and Ali are long time members of Ballarat Yacht club. Charles’ efforts were recognized with the Hans Hill National Hansa Volunteer of the Year Award. Victoria won the State Teams Trophy. The 2027 national championships will take place in Perth, WA, with the Victorian 2.4mR fleet already sharing information regarding boat transport logistics. This further demonstrates the benefits of inclusion and collaboration in Victoria.
