Eight Thunderbirds competed in the event, which was sailed over a series of seven races on the Swan River.  Principal Race Officer Ken Brooke did very well to get the seven races in with the light and variable breezes. 

Condor remained a consistent threat to the event lead and sailed well to not only take second place overall in the Championship but also take out first place in the handicap.

All other boats in the fleet were at one time or another in or very close to the lead.  This is a real indication that the fleet is on fine shape.   Results      Race by Race notes

Both Jane and Andrew are looking forward to the task - now much simplified by having the boat out of the weather and "just out the back door". 

The transition from pen to shed was fairly painless.  The keel was dropped off without any trouble - simply undo the bolts, punch them through and lift the boat.  The hull was lowered onto a custom frame complete with wheels and the whole lot placed on the back of truck with the club's Tammy Lift.  A crane at home finished the job and the boat was simply wheeled into the shed.    Some pictures:
Tammy lift     Keel removed    Keel frame  Keel cross section     Custom frame modifications
 

22 members of the Fleet descended on Chris and Marg's house for not just a night of musical merriment but also a feast from the webbers - beef and fish cooked superbly and accompanied by a huge selection of salads and other tasty dishes.  Needless to say, the night was well oiled with the odd bottle of wine and port - it's winter down here.

Once again Brian (aka Chicken Man) tinkled the ivories, ably supported by the Fleet's resident flautist Helen and Chris on guitar.  Vocal involvement was mandatory, though some of the younger members amongst the group may have had to refer to the words for some of the older (more classic) numbers.

Some Photos:  (Just click on underlined item)

• Helen and the Fleet 27 Singers
• Brian and Gill bang out a tune
• Captain John enjoys
• El President and others
• A quite chat during intermission

State Championships were held during March 2000 with 9 boats competing.  Chris Chapple took out the series on a count back from Rob Wallace in Thunderation.  There were tight tussles throughout the very successful five race series.

The annual weekend cruise to Rottnest was well attended and again a highlight of the social calendar. Further social events, including mulled wine evenings in the cooler months, have further bonded the Fleet.  The newly appointed Social Secretary Colin Smith has coordinated these events.

Sadly, one of the Fleet’s fathers, Noel Sememns (Metala) passed away during the season.  His support of the Fleet for more than 30 years was immense and will be missed. 

There is only one other Thunderbird in Western Australia and this is currently under a major refit.  It is anticipated that this boat will join the Fleet when complete in a year or two.  The Fleet is keen to increase its numbers and is looking to promote the import of boats from Australia’s eastern seaboard.

The Fleet is in excellent health with great competition, enjoyment and camaraderie.  The coming season looks to be an even better one.

Mark B Fitzhardinge, Secretary
 

The final points do not truly show the closeness of the racing throughout the Fleet.  A comment made by a skipper of another class (MB24s) which co-held their championships was " They may not have as big a fleet as us, but gee those Thunderbirds are competitive..."  I think this sums up the event - a shame we could not get the whole Fleet together, but a great series.    Results details   (Mark Fitzhardinge)