The Harbour House 12 Mile Banks and Back race was organised by the Cayman Islands Sailing Club on Saturday February 25th 2012 and the cruisers took advantage of good winds.

Perfect conditions blessed the first cruisers race of the year which was sponsored by Harbour House Marina. Only five boats made it to the starting line with some last minute withdrawals due to missing crew or unready boats. When going offshore it is highly recommended that boats are adequately prepared and amply crewed.

The course was roughly 50 miles long and the first boat across the line, Java Knight, finished in just under four and a half hours. The next three boats all finished within 40 minutes of each other. The winner on corrected time was Pie Seas 3, skippered by Jonathan Cuff, his first podium position with his new boat.

Mr Cuff said, “My boat was better prepared than in the past and I had some knowledgeable crew on board which made a difference”. It’s always been fun to take part in Cruiser races but it’s even better to get a trophy”.

It was also a first podium for Russ Sager and Decadence 1 who took third place. Brando had to withdraw as they only had two on board but at least they kept their mast intact this year.

The competitors expressed their thanks to Peta Adams, Mary Caley and Terrie Farrington for doing Race Committee and to Harbour House Marina for their support.

The dates for the 2012 Cruisers series are: Sunday 25th March, Saturday 5th May, Sunday 24th June, Sunday 15th July, Sunday 9th September and Saturday 3rd November.

The other two major races for the Crusier fleet for 2012 are the Easter Round the Island (April 6th) and Beach and Back (Sep 22nd).

Results:

The dates for the 2012 Cruisers series are: Sunday 25th March, Saturday 5th May, Sunday 24th June, Sunday 15th July, Sunday 9th September and Saturday 3rd November.

The other two major races for the Crusier fleet for 2012 are the Easter Round the Island (April 6th) and Beach and Back (Sep 22nd).