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Lasers light up Iron Cove

Wednesday 30 April, 2008 12:00pm

DOBRYOD Aquatic Club's Dave Padden sailed superbly to pick up gold at the NSW 2008 Radio Controlled (RC) Laser State Championship at Rodd Point on April 19 and 20.

Padden sailed consistently well, crossing the line in first or second position in 22 of the 33 races.

Clubmate Paul Derwent, of Leichhardt, improved on his third position in each of the past two championships to pick up the silver medal.

Larry Reedman, from the Sydney Maritime Modellers Club and who came second in 2006, sailed well in the variable conditions to take out the bronze.

Newcomer Paul Martin, from the Blue Mountains, put in a notable performance to finish fourth.

Winston Hills sailor Graham Brown, the novice of the field with only a few hours' hands-on experience in the class, sailed with the skill of an old professional. Brown capped off a remarkable tournament with a second in the last race to end up seventh overall.

Derwent, the host club's president, said the best thing about the championship was the spirit in which everyone raced.

"We were all trying to win each race but never at the expense of fun and fair play," he said.

"This is a hallmark of RC laser sailing and a credit to Owen Jarvis, the principal race officer and all of the competitors." Padden said the winds were terrific and tested competitors throughout the two days.

"On Sunday afternoon we were sailing with the large sails in light flukey winds," he said.

"Tactics became important in my case helped by local knowledge."

The next championship event is in Melbourne at the end of May. To join Dobroyd RC Lasers, contact Paul Derwent on 0416 855-626 or visit www.radiosail.com.au