December 10-11, 2017
South of Perth Yacht Club

The Western Australian State titles were a lead-up to the forthcoming Viper 640 World Championship in February. The format was changed to late afternoon racing followed by morning racing to hopefully get a good sea breeze and then the lighter easterly in the morning.

Of course, the breeze didn’t do as expected.  The sea breeze didn’t fill in and it was 12 knots and dropping for the afternoon races.

The first race was won by Rod Beurteaux in You Get in the Bowl. The left side was favoured, and continued to be favoured for all the races. Boats that went hard left led at the top mark and generally finished in the top places. Those that were forced or chose a step to the right, and then waited that extra 100m for that bit more wind to tack back in….. failed. Consistent results meant a good points lead for the two tied leaders –  Graeme Monkhouse and John Park at the end of Day 1.

There was a light wind forecast for Day 2. The car park drinks to pour over the days results were followed by a great BBQ with Wagyu beef, oysters, wine, etc., and made for a special night .

Day 2 started glassy but filled in to about 8 knots. It was a mixed bag of results but Graeme Monkhouse was still the most consistent and finished the series with a well deserved first place. Michael Cameron had a good Day 2 and slipped past John Park. The racing was close and there were six different heat winners. The race management was great, in light shifty conditions.

Next up: the Viper 640 World Championship in February 2018.

Heather and Graeme Monkhouse receiving their prize.