SKYBIRD MSR 26-01
Skybird Squib Series Race One
Sunday, 19 April 2026
It was a great day for all concerned.
On arrival at the marina, via the newly improved access road, competitors were welcomed with delicious sausage and egg burgers prepared by club member and talented chef, Peter Hindle. While boats were being rigged, a heavy rain shower passed through, delaying the start. This would later prove significant as the strengthening tide came into play.
Although the fleet consisted of just five boats! fewer than hoped for the high standard of both preparation and sailing more than made up for the small entry. The freshly cleaned boats and experienced crews highlighted just how competitive and evenly matched these one-design Squibs are. The club continues its efforts to attract more sailors to what is arguably the only genuine one-design keelboat racing in Malaysia.
The fleet comprised:
- Kittywitch (357) – Rainer & Martin Crookes
- Alice (447) – Dom & Alessandro
- Second Wind (645) – Ronan, Melissa & Michael
- Emily (691) – Evan Ho & Eugene
- Cabaret (760) – Commodore Jeremy & Faheem
Race Officer Malcolm Elliot had prepared a range of possible courses using the club’s three buoys and the marina pole. Laying the marks required launching the club boat, and thanks go to instructor Lan and assistant Rahim for their efforts—particularly challenging given the strong tide. They also ferried Chef Peter and his family out to spectate.
The first race started at 12:45 from the line set between the pillars directly in front of the club. An even start saw boats heading in different directions. Although the tide was nominally ebbing, there was little clear indication of its effect.
Cabaret and Second Wind worked up the north shore, while Kittywitch took a central line and the remaining boats favoured the south shore—the nominally correct route for the first mark, though tidal influence made positioning critical.
Cabaret suffered a delayed launch due to several small issues, including an unattached jib halyard, requiring a mid-race fix. Once resolved, the boat recovered well, climbing from last to fourth by the finish.
Kittywitch rounded the first mark in the lead, followed by Emily and Cabaret. The next leg to the marina “Magic Pole” proved dramatic. All boats set spinnakers, creating an impressive sight for spectators. However, Emily missed the mark and had to return, losing third place. Cabaret corrected in time after a warning.
Final results:
- Kittywitch
- Alice
- Cabaret
- Second Wind
- Emily
Elapsed time: 46 minutes.
By race two, the tide had turned and was flooding strongly. Boats struggled to make progress, with Cabaret, Emily, and Second Wind battling mid-course against the increasing current.
Despite repeated short tacks and experienced handling, they were unable to advance effectively. Meanwhile, Kittywitch positioned well along the north shore before the Race Officer made the call to abandon the race.
With the tide continuing to build and wind dropping, further racing was deemed unproductive. Boats returned to the club.
Back ashore, competitors enjoyed an excellent dinner—spaghetti with rich chicken carbonara and garlic bread—courtesy of Chef Peter. Cold beer, sponsored by the Commodore (and Rose), was also appreciated.
While racing was cut short, valuable lessons were learned ahead of the next race on Sunday, 24 May. A larger turnout is anticipated for another great day on the water.
Jeremy Camps
Acting Squib Class Captain