Bay of Islands Sailing Week has returned to racing, with three fleets sharing the course as race management continues to adjust its programme in response to shifting conditions. Group A, Group B, and Group C are all active, with the race committee making calls as the weather develops through the day.
Group A wrapped up its first race by around 12:30pm and chose not to continue. With rain becoming heavier and the breeze easing off, pushing through a second race would have meant slow, uncomfortable sailing without much reward, so the decision was taken to leave it at one race for the day.
PredictWind has partnered with the event to provide weather updates as racing unfolds.
Wind strength is no longer the primary concern out on the course. The breeze has softened to the 14 to 16 knot range, which is enough to keep boats moving but not enough to generate the kind of tempo that makes racing feel sharp. The conditions demand patience rather than aggression.
Rain is the real story of the afternoon. Forecast models suggest rainfall rates of between 0.5 and 3 millimetres per hour, though observations from shore point to something heavier and more sustained through the afternoon. Alternative modelling supports that view, indicating periods closer to 5 to 10 millimetres per hour. Not dangerous, but relentless, and crews are paying for it in fatigue and discomfort.
There are reasons to keep racing, though. No lightning is forecast, and visibility has remained good enough for racing to continue safely. Northeasterly gusts have been flagged as a possibility later in the day, but for now the breeze is stable and well within manageable limits.
Group A boats have been making their way back to Ōpua Cruising Club as the afternoon progresses, their day's sailing done. Groups B and C are pressing on with a second race, taking what the conditions will give them despite the persistent rain.
Confirmed results will be published once the race committee's numbers have been received and cross-checked. Bay of Islands Sailing Week is testing its crews this week, but it is back on the water.
