Condie Sets the Pace at SA M Titles

The championship attracted a strong interstate contingent, with competitors enjoying near-perfect sailing conditions across the weekend. A total of 29 races were completed, with changing wind strengths and rig selections adding an extra tactical dimension to the competition.

Saturday's racing also incorporated the resail of the Bournville Trophy, adding further significance to the opening day of the championship.

Racing commenced in a comfortable westerly breeze, with competitors initially sailing in C rig conditions. As the breeze gradually eased throughout the afternoon, the fleet progressively moved through B rigs before finishing the day in A rigs.

The Grunge designs dominated the early exchanges, with Andrew Reid making a particularly strong start and appearing well placed to establish a commanding lead. However, consistency proved decisive as Scott Condie and Brett Osborn worked their way to the front of the standings, with Paul Littledyke completing the day's top three.

Condie also secured victory in the resailed Bournville Trophy, capping off an excellent opening day.

There were several notable performances further down the fleet. Newly appointed Commodore Neil How overcame some early teething problems to finish strongly in his first outing, while Tim Paynter demonstrated excellent tactical judgement by selecting his A rig following the break and comfortably winning a race.

At the conclusion of Saturday's racing, Condie held the championship lead, setting the stage for an exciting final day with several challengers still firmly in contention.

Sunday delivered another excellent day of Marblehead sailing, although competitors again faced changing conditions that tested both boat handling and tactical decisions.

The day began with a strong north-easterly breeze, with the entire fleet sailing on C2 rigs. As the afternoon progressed, the wind shifted towards the west and gradually eased ahead of forecast thunderstorms, allowing competitors to move into larger rigs.

Condie continued his impressive form from Saturday, maintaining the consistency that had established his championship lead. Andrew Reid, meanwhile, mounted a determined comeback, producing a string of strong results to climb back through the standings.

Reid's recovery was particularly impressive, with six race victories on the final day helping him secure second place overall. Brett Osborn, who had been Condie's closest challenger overnight, remained competitive throughout but was eventually pushed into third place.

The final results reflected just how closely contested the racing had been. Condie recorded 10 race victories across the 29-race series, while Reid and Osborn each secured seven wins.

Condie's ability to consistently finish near the front of the fleet proved the difference, recording a net score of 52 points to claim the championship by 17 points from Reid.

Despite a relatively small local fleet, the championship was a great success, supported by the strong turnout of interstate competitors and the excellent sailing conditions experienced across both days.

The changing conditions provided a thorough test of the Marblehead class, with competitors required to make timely rig changes and adapt to shifting breezes throughout the weekend.

Special thanks go to JB, Alan, Ian, Gully and all the volunteers who contributed to the successful running of the event.

Congratulations to Scott Condie on becoming the 2026 South Australian Marblehead State Champion and securing the Bournville Trophy, and to Andrew Reid and Brett Osborn for completing a highly competitive championship podium.