THE Power Dinghy Clubs 38th Blackwood Classic event was held over the September long weekend, starting in Bridgetown, with many competitors finding the three day course challenging in tough conditions.
Nearly half of the powered dinghies that started were not able to complete the whole three day course, which starts in Bridgetown and finishes in Augusta.
Club Commodore Jay Branson from Dwellingup and friend Byron Jane won the challenging race for the third year in a row.
"It was a pretty difficult race,” Commodore Bransen said. "The conditions were pretty tough this year. The water levels were much lower than last year and the crossing over the estuary was really rough."
Commodore Bransen said 33 boats competed in the race but only 16 made it to the end. Two of the competitors that didn't make it through the race were Aaron Lawrence and Jake Van nus, who had endless problems with their boat over the weekend.
"Aaron and Jake tried to get started on all three days but just didn't have any luck and didn't finish any of the days." Commodore Bransen said. "We are all keen to get in and help them out so they can finish the race next year."
Mr Lawrence said that they tried to start each day but their engine just wouldn't work for them this year.
"It was very disappointing for us this year, as we couldn't get our engine to work for us on both Saturday and Sunday," Mr Lawrence said. "We then borrowed an engine for day three, but the fuel line on that one broke down.
"Last year we did the Avon and the Blackwood races and finished both of them, so it is pretty frustrating when this happens. But we ended up having a great weekend and it was good to get away from the city."
The event attracts many spectators along the river and this adds to a great atmosphere for the participants.
"It is great to see lots of spectators along the way and it is becoming an event to come and watch," Commodore Bransen said. "I have been racing in this event since 1993 and there are a lot more houses along the river now, with locals coming out to watch as they hear us come down.
"It is a great weekend and the locals in Bridgetown and Nannup make us feel very welcome. We all look forward to coming back each year."
