Free State Yacht Club on Gariep Dam was the venue for the 2009 Mirror Class National Championships. This venue was chosen on the basis of being roughly equidistant for competitors from the Cape, KZN and Northvaal. There is a huge expanse of water and the friendly club members were able to provide a big cruising catamaran and keelboats for the course.

Twenty Mirrors entered the event. On the first day, a strong westerly wind picked up, peaking at gusts over 35 knots. It was deemed unsafe to attempt racing under those conditions. 

The next day, a light easterly ( 5- 7 knots) blew most of the day. Four races were completed in the morning after an early start. After a late lunch, the fleet was called out for more racing, in the hopes that a stronger westerly would fill in. Unfortunately, the easterly hung in and one more light wind race was completed. 

On the last day, the fleet had another early start (08:00) and a race was completed in another light easterly. This wind faded and the regatta was declared completed. The expected westerly only materialised at lunchtime, when all the boats had been loaded for the trip home. 

After the first couple of races, veteran Mirror sailor Trevor Gibb established a lead. Then, consistent sailing by Cundell Statt (snr) put him in front. Towards the end of the regatta, however, it was apparent that Team Robinson had once again succeeded in taking control, as they have done in past Nationals. At the prizegiving, it was announced that the team of Cundell Statt (snr) and Cuan Clifford had finished in third place. Second place was taken by Brennan and Michaela Robinson. The Mirror National Champions became Ricky & Ryan Robinson. 

The Mirror Class Association wishes to thank the Commodore and members of Free State Yacht Club for their hospitality in providing their venue for this regatta.

Results|| Photos