Bartlett nails two on Day 4 of Barfoot and Thompson 12fter Interdom

6:17 PM Wed 13 Jan 2010 GMT

'Day 4 Barfoot and Thompson 12 foot skiff Interdoms' Garrick Cameron Click Here to view large photo

Racing continued in the 50th Barfoot and Thompson 12ft skiff Interdominion, being sailed from Auckland Sailing Club on the inner Waitemata harbour.

Two teams of 12 boats each represent Australia and New Zealand - both competing for the individual trophy, as well as the Brooke Trophy for best scoring team/country.

Day 4 saw a freshening breeze on the Waitemata harbour. Once again there was a split rig decision between third and second rig for heat 5. The start was on time for the south westerly course. As the race progressed the breeze built but then for the last upwind work it eased out and the second rigs came into their own.

First across the line was Frankienskiff (Tim Bartlett) followed by Dimension Polyant Australia the Garde.

During lunch on the ramp the breeze started to steadily build and slowly swing south. Most of the fleet peeled to their 4th rigs with the big boys going 3rd. As a result of the short start line for the southerly course and the fact the tide had turned saw a lot of pushing at the start resulting in a general recall. The line was reset and the next start got underway. The breeze had now filled into a solid breeze and the tide against the wind made for some lumpy rides. Nice action too had a massive lead at the wing mark and then sailed to the wrong mark but recovered well to finish 4th.

First across the line was Frankienskiff followed by Absolute CNC and then Davie Noris Boats.

The kiwis finished strong in both races extending their lead on the Don Brooke trophy teams points.
The Aussies now have to put in some stellar performances to narrow the gap.

by Russell Davis