More than 100 boats take part in Walpole Yacht Club’s annual In The Trees Regatta

More than 100 boats took part in another successful Walpole In The Trees Regatta on the Nornalup Inlet over the Labour Day long weekend. A diverse fleet of sailors from numerous regional and metropolitan sailing clubs hit the water in exceptional conditions across the two days of racing. In total 118 competing boats were in action over five heat races, in nine different divisions. The junior division was well supported with 21 acceptances as they competed among more experienced yachties. This year had another strong contingent of the laser class fleet, the strongest division with 28 competitors. The sabre sharks returned in force with 14 competitors while the mirrors continue to impress and raced with 19 competitors. The old gaffers had 12 boats racing and made for a great viewing spectacle. Handicap winners at the regatta were Emily (small dinghies), Warragul (old gaffers), Little Blue (mirrors), Duel (sabre sharks), Vitamin-Sea (windrush), Impulsive (medium dinghies), Redback (trailer sailers), Black Boat (large dinghies) and Elektra (lasers). Championship winners were Nauti Buoy (optimist), Bulletproof (mirrors), Kite (sabre shark) and Risky Business (lasers). The event was run by the Walpole Yacht Club which praised the support of sponsors and volunteers in making it all happen. “A big thank you to all the volunteers who contributed to the regatta,” the club said. “Our WYC volunteers did a fantastic effort and special thanks to all our on-water and on-land support for the running of the event and to Houseboat Holidays for providing such a fantastic finishing boat. “Our major sponsors the Shire of Manjimup and Burton Realty continue to support the regatta along with all our other valued sponsors “Their support has enabled the event to continue and grow.”