Winter arrived early in Brisbane for the practice race ahead of the 2026 Finn Gold Cup with Porsche Centre Brisbane. Strong winds combined with a sharp sea, intermittent rain and unusually low temperatures severely reduced the fleet on Saturday. There was little love for these conditions though those who ventured out came back with tall stories and several muddied top masts.
With winds from 23-28 knots, the decision was taken to run the race inside Waterloo Bay rather than out in Moreton Bay as planned for the rest of the week. However, only a handful of boats ventured out from the relative safety of the harbour to be met by steep seas and unforgiving gusts. Eight boats started the race with Norway’s Anders Pedersen building a sizable lead at the first mark from world No.1 Laurent Hay from France. Over half the fleet capsized on the first downwind before heading back to the ramp.
Some forecasts show more wind for Sunday when the first two races of what is the 70th Finn Gold Cup are scheduled to start at 13.00. Around 70 entries from 14 countries are taking part. The 10 race series concludes on Thursday 19 February.
Gallery of the day: flickr.com/photos/finnclassphotos/albums/72177720332035689
Gus Miller returns to Brisbane 50 years after competing in the famous 1976 Finn Gold Cup, which was won by Britain’s Chris Law. Here is an extended interview with Mike Middleton.
