Three fleets are active on the course: Group A, Group B, and Group C, with race management adjusting plans as conditions evolve. By around 12:30pm, Group A had completed its first race and elected to call the day after that. With rain intensifying and wind easing, the decision was made to run one race only rather than push on with a slow and uncomfortable second.
PredictWind has partnered with the event to bring weather updates as the racing unfolds.
The wind itself is no longer the issue. If anything, it has softened. Conditions across the course are sitting in the 14 to 16 knot range, providing enough pressure to keep boats moving but not enough to lift the tempo. Any expectation of punchy racing has given way to steady, patient sailing.
Rain, however, has become persistent. Forecast guidance suggests rainfall rates between 0.5 and 3 millimetres per hour, but conditions observed from shore point to heavier, more sustained rain through the afternoon. Alternative modelling supports that view, indicating periods closer to 5 to 10 millimetres per hour. It is not violent weather, but it is relentless, soaking crews and draining energy.
The positive is what is not happening. There is no lightning forecast, and visibility remains good enough for racing to continue safely. Gusts are being monitored, with some projections pointing to northeasterly spikes later in the day, but for now the breeze remains settled and manageable.
As the afternoon progresses, Group A boats are returning to Ōpua Cruising Club, their day complete. Groups B and C are continuing with a second race, making the most of workable wind despite the rain.
Results will follow shortly once race committee confirmations are received and cross-checked. Bay of Islands Sailing Week may be testing crews, but it is now firmly back in motion.
