Strong contenders

Bertrand, Ainslie and Palfrey launch their Etchells ready for the World Championship

A sunny and breezy afternoon welcomed the highly fancied crew of John Bertrand, Ben Ainslie and Andrew Palfrey when they splashed their boat Triad and set about a two-hour practice session in the warm waters of Gulf St Vincent. The gradient breeze combined with the sea breeze to generate a sparkling 25+ knots, in the bright sunshine, quite a welcome, with John Bertrand saying, “it’s blowing like stink out there” after returning to the dock of the Royal SA Yacht Squadron (Squadron).

With only a day to go until the official start of the Commonwealth Bank 2009 Etchells Australian Championship a host of ‘stars’ and crews are rolling in, including the likes of the ever popular Rob Brown, who assisted the Bertrand crew in launching Triad.

With breezes expecting to moderate for the start of race one on Monday, the locals are full of excitement: “with many interstate visitors arriving and setting up their boats, the Squadron now has a ‘big regatta’ feel to it”, said Wayne Knill, Etchells Fleet captain.

Sponsors have been quick to jump aboard, recognising the contribution sailing makes to the local community, and keen to associate with a healthy outdoor sport. Sponsors include; The Commonwealth Bank, Coopers Brewery, Musto, Club Marine, Kiesler Wines and Aircommand Australia