2026 Eskimo Race Report
24th January 2026
The 57th running of the Eskimo Pursuit Race delivered classic heavy-weather sailing, with over 22 competitors turning out on a blustery Saturday afternoon. Sailors travelled from as far afield as Stokes Bay Sailing Club and Darwin, South Australia, to take on conditions that would thoroughly test both boats and crews.
Forecast winds of 15–18 knots with gusts into the mid-20s had crews on alert at the pre-race briefing. However, conditions on the water proved more demanding, with sustained winds ranging from 20 to 32 knots throughout the race. Race Officers advised that the day would favour the heavy-wind specialists, and the first start got underway at 13:30.
The course, set directly in front of the clubhouse, provided an excellent viewing platform for spectators as boats powered around the marks in challenging conditions.
The ILCA 6 (Laser Radial) fleet of seven boats was first away, with local sailor Malcolm Marsden taking an early lead. He controlled the opening stages until brother Neil Marsden and Derick Hill, sailing GP14 No. 6425, worked their way through the fleet and took the lead overall. Neil held this position for over an hour, with several Laser Radials close behind.
The Dart 18, starting some 37 minutes after the first fleet, quickly showed its pace and looked a strong contender. However, shortly after rounding the seventh mark, the mast failed, abruptly ending Ian Brooker and Rob Mountain’s race.
Five Flying Fifteens started approximately 17 minutes after the first gun. After a competitive opening, Michael Preston and Sarah Harris emerged as fleet leaders and steadily progressed through the mixed fleet, demonstrating excellent spinnaker handling and well-controlled gybes in the demanding conditions.
As the race entered its final 20 minutes, Neil Marsden and Derick Hill suffered a snapped shroud aboard the GP14 and were forced to retire from a strong position. This briefly returned the lead to Malcolm Marsden, but a subsequent capsize ended his challenge and allowed Tim Keighley to move into the lead for the final 15 minutes, securing a well-earned victory.
Once again, the club was grateful for the generous support of Goacher Sails, with Chris and Hannah Robinson kindly sponsoring the Flying Fifteen fleet and providing a selection of much-appreciated goodies for the sailors.
New Year Annual Pursuit race (Eskimo) 2027 Shall be held on Saturday 9th January 10:50 start we look forward to seeing you all on the water