The core crew who have raced together in the Spring Series and the competitive Spi Ouest Regatta in France joined forces again for the IRC Nationals. Consisting of 7 races over 3 days, the racing is fast and furious, and this year saw all the regular competitive yachts lining up.
Tim Thubron ably assisted by mate Mike Martin and crew started racing all guns blazing on Thursday and secure a 2nd place in the first race – just pipped by long-time rival Premier Flair, but Visit Malta Puma fought back and beat them in the third race.
As the winds picked up, other boats were starting to show the strain but the Reflex 38 thrives in the more feisty conditions and on Saturday Visit Malta Puma stormed home in 1st place. Tim credits the win to his crew for electing not to fly the spinnaker, and as a result flew past the rest of the fleet who were fighting with wraps and broaches. At this stage, they led the group.
Saturday afternoon racing was abandoned due to the conditions, and on Sunday Visit Malta Puma’s crew started strongly with a 4th place, and even a crew house ashore couldn’t stop the fatigue setting in by the end, and the last race was the discard of the series.
Overall Visit Malta Puma and crew performed fantastically well in tough conditions – achieving 3rd place in a very competitive fleet. The crew returned after the three days elated and exhausted – well done to all!
Crew: Skipper: Tim Thubron, Mate: Mike Martin. Crew: Alex Dunn, Tanya Robinson, Viv Bannigan, Ursula Korpert, Tam Byrne, Matt Shafer, Roberto Patumelli and Sharon O’Donnell.
RORC 'Sailing School Boat of the Year' 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012