The Scow and Lowrider Moth dinghy National Titles hosted by the Lake Cootharaba Sailing Club begins this Sunday with the Balaton Design Invitation Race.
More than 30 of these historical 11 foot (3.5m) dinghies from as far away as Western Australia will be competing at the National Titles over the coming week.
Although the Moth fleet has been continuously active for many years, recently through the foiling Moth fleet which sees competitions with some worlds best known sailors participating at National and World titles, the more historic scow and low-riding skiffs have only made sporadic appearances.
However recently there has been a marked revival in the scow and low-rider fleets across Australia and also internationally.
Chris Musto, one of the Western Australian sailors, has been chomping at the bit to get across to sail.
“Last year when we held the titles in NSW, the atmosphere was fantastic,” Chris said.
“Close yet friendly competitive sailing at its best. Those of us from Western Australia have travelled over to again see how we go against the east coasters. Last year we went home with the silverware, lets see if we can do it again! Lake Cootharaba looks like a fantastic place to sail, and the whole local area offers so much to see and to do. ”
Races will continue across the week, with sailors competing for a range of prizes, including scratch, age and handicap. With sailors from teenagers through to septuagenarians (those in their 70’s), sailing boats ranging from brand new to nearly 60 years old, anything can (and probably will) happen.
In a time where sailing could be seen as getting too complex, too competitive and too expensive, the restoration of fleets such as the scow and low-rider moths, is providing a pathway both for the more mature and junior sailors to enter into competitive, fun and friendly racing in boats that still provide a thrill or two.
The very active Scow and Lowriders Australia Facebook page has contact details and information as to the coming National Titles for anyone with a scow or low-riding skiff hidden in their garage.
Anyone who is looking for an opportunity to sponsor or contribute to the event get in contact through Facebook – Scow and Lowriders Australia at facebook.com/groups/700982496682772/
