The 68 boat fleet at the 36th Unibilt Tasar Nationals got off to a great start yesterday in a 12 to 18 knot south westerly that made for great racing.

Shane Guanaria and Mel Rippe on board  Sway AUS2847 from NSW were definitely setting the pace, faltering at the second top mark when they failed to sail to the "hitch" or preventer mark before the run. Oki Doki AUS 2823 sailed by Gwen and Derek Warne were quick to take advantage of the mistake and weren't headed - taking the gun for the practice race. Dave and Doris Bretherton on new boat Edge Off AUS2851, rounded out the top three looking extremely quick. Their new boat was christened earlier in the morning before racing.

It is looking like it will be tough at the top with a number of experienced teams from around Australia ready to enjoy the great racing conditions here in McCrae.

For full results of the invitation race CLICK HERE.

The 68 boat fleet - definitely the largest turnout for a nationals in quite some time was a spectacular sight for competitors and the race committee. The courses are set for racing not spectators - well offshore from the club to ensure that racing conditions are fair in both wind, and current.

The race committee did an excellent job yesterday so I have a feeling we can expect nothing but the best as the regatta series gets into gear.

Heat 1 is set to begin at 2.30pm today, followed by Heat 2. Results and a report will be posted as soon as possible after racing.

Stay tuned!!!

Nic Douglass in McCrae with your Nationals News!