Although the wind was not what a sailing skipper expected 375 entrants were recorded on Sunday which did not better the world record attempt of 2007. The record is still standing and is held by South Africa, recorded at LDYC with 389 entrants over the finish line. Tents, caravans and vendors spread out all over the grounds again this year as sailing enthusiasts flocked to this picturesque town on the shores of the Vaal Dam. There was approximately 1 125 people on the water on the Sunday. Some just lazed in the sun, others ate, drank and just had fun.
On shore there was a beer tent and lots of foodstuff to choose from. Capital radio was on site with live reports that kept visitors up to date about what were happening out on the water. For the kids there was a massive slide and pool to cool off in. For those more adventurous, helicopter flips by Flymargate.com with pilots Mark Stewardson and Hayley Cumming behind the sticks took visitors around the island with a bird’s eye view of all the yachts.
Sponsor SAMSA’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Tebogo Modibo, believes in leading by example and, after completing a sailing course late last year, crewed on one of the boats.
“The experience of being amongst the fleet on the start line was absolutely amazing. As far as the sponsorship is concerned this event is an unrivalled opportunity to take our messages to the sailing community which received them well.
“We anticipate a partnership in this event for years to come. This is an event on the Vaal Triangle’s calendar not to be missed. You do not have to sail to be part of this yearly event,” he said.
The official results were: SAMSA RTIR 2012 Results: Overall: Phil Bennett (L26 Windways), Trevor Hulleman (J22, Hay J), Neil Armstrong (J22, Hang Ten).
Source: vaalweekblad.co.za