Geographe Bay Race Week is one of Western Australia’s premier yachting regattas and this year featured the racing of the inaugural Etchells Bill Steele Cup.
Once called the Opium Pipe Ashes Trophy, the Cup was originally raced for in teams racing in Etchells with representatives from the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club, Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club, Royal Perth Yacht Club and Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club. After the death of Etchells Class legend Bill Steele the trophy was renamed the ‘Bill Steele Cup’ and the new event established to be held outside Perth. Hence Geographe Bay and joining Geographe Bay Race Week.
For the intrepid Etchells travellers from Perth, Geographe Bay and the venue turned out to be all that was promised, and more. Not only were the waters pristine and conditions varied, but the marina was first class and the restaurants and Club hospitality were great.
With a very steady performance in all conditions, Martin Webster and his crew Grant Alderson (Flying 15 World Champ), Chris Smith (match racing tactician) and Ella Clarke (420 World Champ) representing Royal Freshwater Bay Yacht Club won the Etchells Bill Steele Cup.
By Chris Pratt
For the full story, see: https://www.sail-world.com/news/246278/Etchells-Bill-Steele-Cup-at-Geographe-Bay
