The S80 Association Legends Race is back for another year, with the event set to take place on Wednesday, April 5th at the SoPYC, weather permitting. This exciting event is a chance for past sailors and legends of the S80 fleet to come together, catch up, and compete in a jib and mail race on the beautiful Swan River.
The idea for a legends’ race was first conceived in 2016 as a way to celebrate the life of Alan Tough, a previous chairman of the S80 Association. The first event was a resounding success, with so much support that it was decided to make it an annual event. To commemorate Alan Tough’s legacy, his sister Diane Airey and her family donated a perpetual trophy for the race.
This year’s Legends Race promises to be just as thrilling, with past winners Mark Robbins, John Hassan, Simon Cunningham, Mark Lovelady, and Ray Smith returning to defend their titles. The race has been known to be quite competitive in the past, with sailors braving some challenging pre-Christmas sea breezes to come out on top.
The S80 remains a popular yachting one-design fleet on the Swan River, and with initiatives such as the Legends’ Race, it will undoubtedly continue to attract its fair share of followers. The itinerary for the day includes a pre-race briefing for skippers and crew, lunch in the Wardroom, and presentations in the Ballroom.
In addition to the race itself, the association is inviting former S80 skippers and crews who cannot sail this year to watch the race finish at the SoPYC box and attend the after-race socials and presentations. One of the highlights of the social event will be a photo retrospective and memorabilia display of the S80 fleet over the years, kindly loaned by life member John Holder.
Overall, the S80 Association Legends Race promises to be a fantastic event that brings together past sailors and legends of the S80 fleet. The chance to catch up with old friends and enjoy a competitive yet fun race on the beautiful Swan River is not to be missed. The association looks forward to welcoming all sailors and supporters to this year’s event and hopes for moderate breeze on the day.
12:30 Lunch in Wardroom ($30pp and booked)
13:45 Pre-Race briefing for skippers & crew
14:25 1st Warning Signal
17:00 Presentations in Ballroom
