We may have to come back again.

Skipper David Rees brought his MDB 36, Whistler into dock this morning at Elizabeth street pier at 09:25:20.  The Hobart based boat was happy to hand over their tracker as the home bound trip from here will only take 10 minutes. 

This was the only Hobart bound race that Whistler hadn’t previously competed in and it was one of the toughest West Coasters in many years.  Rees seemed unfazed about this and did express that like the rest of the fleet Saturday night had been about sailing in survival mode.  They are undoubtedly pleased to be home but don’t seem daunted by the idea of coming back next year.

ORCV had predicted that Whistler were a strong contender for Handicap honours and whilst this might not have been their weather this year it just means that there is unfinished business to attend to.

The boat that is owned by John Hyslop was built in an apple shed in the Huon Valley and launched in 1996.  Rees has been campaigning the boat for the last 10 years with a high level of success.  Just to complete the Westcoaster race is an achievement and one that not many yachties even ocean going yachties achieve.

Congratulations to the crew of Whistler and we look forward to seeing you next year.

Jennifer McGuigan