Many a great idea has been hatched over a long lunch.<\/p>\n
Thanks to a group of forward-thinking ladies connected to the Manly 16ft Skiff Club, a proposal conceived at Peats Bite on the Hawkesbury has transformed into an encouraging initiative this season in the 16ft fleet.<\/p>\n
The concept, aimed at registering an \u201call-ladies\u201d boat to introduce more females to the class, is designed to be both supportive and educational, incorporating a spirit of competition.<\/p>\n
A boat was donated by Hugh Stodart, sponsorship secured from Mitch at Buckingham Marine Services, and skipper Fiona Harris was appointed before the Queens of Buckingham was officially launched.<\/p>\n
Utilising a rotating crew, the initial competition results have been modest, yet enthusiasm remains high.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe idea to sail a 16 was really born out of watching many hours of my children and husband sailing, along with my extensive volunteering in sailing,\u201d crew member Teira Jansen shared.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe planned it over a long lunch with like-minded sailors. Our husbands likely thought this was just a phase. But the next day, we excitedly started planning. If we were going to do it, we were going all out \u2013 hence the pink!\u201d<\/p>\n
While planning was straightforward, stepping onto a skiff and competing against skilled sailors presented a new challenge. However, initial nerves quickly dissipated.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt can be daunting stepping onto a 16 and mixing with incredibly talented sailors, but we hope that by having fun and improving our skills, we can inspire more women to take up the challenge,\u201d Teira added.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe thrill of sailing the 16 is addictive, and I finally understand why this boat is beloved. We all feel ecstatic after each session, despite our swims, and are truly grateful for this opportunity. The Manly 16 sailing community has been incredibly supportive, answering our queries and encouraging us with high-fives when needed,\u201d she remarked.<\/p>\n
Harris, a pivotal figure from that memorable long lunch, serves as the full-time skipper, with Jansen on the bow. Emily Fewster and Annika Mountstephens handle sheethand duties, with two more sailors ready to step in as needed.<\/p>\n
Harris brings substantial experience, having sailed skiffs prior to stepping back 12-14 years ago after motherhood, while Jansen is a novice quickly learning the skiff\u2019s intricacies.<\/p>\n
The Queens of Buckingham features a smaller rig to help the crew adapt while discussions with sailmakers are underway to create sails more suitable to their lighter frames.<\/p>\n
\u201cIt\u2019s been a rollercoaster, but we\u2019re having lots of fun and learning so much each week,\u201d said Harris, who has returned to sailing after a significant break. \u201cI lost some confidence after having my daughters, but this experience has been so empowering. Even days after a race, I\u2019m still smiling!\u201d<\/p>\n
Due to the concept\u2019s success, Jansen hopes to launch a second \u201call-ladies\u201d boat next year.<\/p>\n
Saturday\u2019s eighth short course pointscore race of the season was abandoned due to a lack of wind.<\/p>\n
Words: Adam Lucius<\/p>\n
Photos: Michael Chittenden | SailMedia | Manly 16s<\/p>\n
#QueensOfBuckingham #WomenInSailing #Manly16s #SailingAustralia #EmpoweringWomen #SailOn<\/p>\n
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