Apr 26, 2023

Diggers Cup 2023 - New Format Deemed a Great Success


The new format of mixed IOM and DF95 teams competing in relay races provided a jovial atmosphere amid showers and blustery conditions. 

The revised but more inclusive format of combining IOMs and DF95s in a series of team relay races provided much frivolity with cheering, jeering and occasional coaching from the shoreline. The day began with a beautifully crafted sausage sizzle under the guidance of Chef Rodney and aided by a delicious salad courtesy of the Odlums. The teams were then drawn from the Mug and, although disappointing in total numbers, resulted in a balanced set of four teams comprising two IOMs and one DF95 per team. The boats all sailed the same course, being one lap each per race and completing a total of 8 races for the afternoon. With a cold front passing through the winds varied from nothing to B rig bullets and occasional showers ensured the skippers kept their cool. An early withdrawal by Jason's radio failure meant Team Bravo had to sail one boat twice per race. With one IOM and one DF95 still in, they alternated the repeat boat per race which kept competition balanced. Occasional weed snags kept skippers on their toes but it did not dampen the spirits of the competitors, all taking it in their stride.

Diggers Winners 2023Diggers2023DODiggers2023RMGW

           2nd Team Bravo (L)  &  Winning Team Delta (R)                   Head Honcho Team Delta                               Team Bravo
             R Mews, G Whitley, B Quail, D King, D Odlum                               David Odlum                              Rob Mews & Graham Whitley
 
Racing was close, with only one point each separating 1st, 2nd and 3rd teams. Top team of the day, and the Diggers Cup, went to Team Delta (David Odlum, Bruce Quail, David King) followed by Team Bravo (Graham Whitley, Rob Mews) who got the Diggers Plate. Novelty prizes were awarded as follows :
Most weeded competitor - Peter Greeve (a bunch of ANZAC rosemary)
Blind Freddy award - Bruce Quail (an eye patch)
Most penalties - David Odlum (PRSC Rule book)
Most vocal supporter/critic - Bruce Robins (Throat lozenges)
Bottom team - Team Charlie Bruce R, Mike, Phil (Wooden spoons)

A great video covering the day's event can be seen here