Race four of the International 14 Australian nationals was sailed in near perfect sailing conditions with a relatively steady 10 to 15 knot east north east sea breeze with blue skies and flat water.

The race started without recalls, although many were very close to the line at the gun. First to the top mark was Irwin Sails followed closely by Black and Blue and October Sky. Black and Blue had taken the lead after the run back to the bottom mark only to lose it again on the third work to Irwin Sails. Black and Blue recovered the lead on the next downwind leg and finished 15 seconds ahead. October Sky somehow managed to capsize on one of the reaches but recovered to finish third. Grumpy, Richard Ekberg and Tim Moorhouse, put in their best result of the series to finish fourth.

A strong outgoing tidal stream in the vicinity of the top mark again caused many approaching on starboard tack to overlay the mark considerably.

First on handicap was Magic, with class stalwart Phillip Strong and Jeffre Klemm. Magic finished 21 across the line, an impressive effort for an old wooden boat.

Races 5 and 6 are to be sailed tomorrow.