Jervis Bay, NSW

The Rooster RS Aero 2025 National Championships concluded 23rd January after a thrilling week of competition on the stunning waters of Jervis Bay.

Sensational Conditions and Close Racing

The regatta kicked off on Sunday 19th January 2025 with 50 domestic and international competitors across all four RS Aero rig sizes (5, 6, 7, and 9) experiencing a variety of wind strengths and directions. Day 1 delivered a southerly wind of 15-20 knots with exciting rolling waves, allowing for some spectacular surfing and close passing manoeuvres downwind.

Day 2 saw a shift in the weather pattern, with a lighter easterly breeze filling in. This change in conditions opened the door for new faces to emerge at the front of each fleet, with tight battles unfolding throughout the races.

Schedule Adjustment and "Tips & Tricks" Session

Due to predicted strong winds on Wednesday, race day three was moved to Tuesday, allowing sailors to tackle a 15-20 knot northeasterly breeze. Day 3 proved to be a highlight, with competitors enjoying a later start time, two races in stunning 10-15 knot winds and 23°C weather, and a valuable post-race "Tips & Tricks" session led by renowned sailor Gary Ratcliffe.

Final Day Drama and National Champions Crowned

The final day of racing tested the skills of all four fleets, with a dying breeze greeting sailors for the last two races. Race 7 was completed in light and variable 5-10 knot conditions, while the final race presented an even greater challenge with a shifty 5-knot breeze. This dramatic finale, particularly in the RS Aero 7 fleet, saw all three podium positions determined in the very last race!
Congratulations to Our National Champions!

Following a week of exceptional competition, the National Champions were crowned:

• RS Aero 5 Australian National Champion - Maria-Luisa Coulson
• RS Aero 6 Australian National Champion - Rhett Gowans
• RS Aero 7 Australian National Champion - Glenn Collings
• RS Aero 9 Australian National Champion - Justin Bakker
• RS Aero 6 National Female Champion - Nat Gray

A Huge Thank You!

The Rooster RS Aero 2025 National Championships would not have been possible without the dedication of several groups:
Jervis Bay Sailing Club, race management team, and volunteers (Mark, Diane, Steve, John, David)
RS Aero Australian Association for organising the event (especially David & Prue Ginty and the outgoing President Bruce Litchfield)
Sailing Raceboats Pty Ltd for their week-long regatta support
Rooster Australia for the awesome prizes!

Celebrations and Thanks
A lively presentation dinner at Club Callala brought together 80 sailors, officials, and loved ones to celebrate the regatta’s success. Gratitude was extended to Jervis Bay Sailing Club, the RS Aero Australian Association, event sponsors, and the dedicated volunteers who made the championships possible. Special thanks go to Rooster Australia for the fantastic prizes and Sailing Raceboats Pty Ltd for their on-ground regatta support.

Looking Ahead:
We look forward to seeing you all at the Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron Nationals next year, and the very exciting news that the RS Aero World Championships are to be held at Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron in early 2027.

Click here for the full results 
 
Submitted By:
Story by James Maslin on behalf of the RS aero Association. Photo Credit to Salty Dingo Media.