Project Racing won the first 18 Foot Skiffs event of the 2010-11 season. Image copyright Frank Quealey.
by Frank Quealey
Scot, Andy Budgen returned to Australia for his third consecutive season only a few days before leading his team of Dan Wilsdon and Cameron McDonald to victory in last Sunday’s opening race of the season on Sydney Harbour.
Andy has self-funded his campaigns for the past two seasons under the Project Racing banner but this time is looking for a sponsor to come on board to help finance the program.
He is determined to improve on his impressive third placing in the 2010 Giltinan Championship when he looked a likely championship winner midway through the last and deciding of the seven race regatta.
“I have secured the services of two great local sailors who both have plenty of 18ft Skiff experience”, Budgen said. “I’m totally confident we will produce a fully professional campaign and will challenge strongly for the 2011 Giltinan Championship”.
Andy Budgen. Image copyright Frank Quealey.
Although Sunday’s opening race of the Australian 18 Footers League 2010-2011 Season was more of a shakedown after the winter layoff, Budgen and his crew showed great boat handling skills as they powered their skiff through the 15-18 knot Easterly wind with their over-powered #1 rig.
Top end of the fleet performances should assure any prospective sponsor of a good return for an investment.
Aussie 18 Foot Skiffs
