(Sandringham, NSW, Australia)- The J/24s in Australia continue to grow their fleets, have fun (most importantly) and are getting a lot of people out on the water who've never before experienced sailing or racing a J/24. Down Under there are a lot of J/24s to be had for a relatively small investment, so it's easy to get racing quickly and be competitive. As a result, this year's J/24 Australia Nationals being held in "Sandy" have attracted an excellent fleet of around two dozen boats from up and down the southeastern seaboard of Australia- sailors of various ilk coming from as far north as Brisbane (north of Sydney), to way down west of Melbourne (Adelaide), to the far south off the island of Tasmania (the Tazzie's). So far, it looks like the KAOTIC team skippered by Ben Lamb are liking the conditions in the bay and are leading the event. Starting off slowly in the first race (a 15th), the KAOTIC gang have amassed several 1sts and 2nds to be on top. Behind them in second place is Sean Kirkjian's team on SAILPAC, winners of various J/24 Oz events over the years. And lying third is Stephen Girdis' CONVICTS REVENGE. The top three "locals" from Sandringham YC are Adam Evans on SDM followed by Simon Grain on JET and Hugo Ottoway on the old BRUSCHETTA VI (a past World Champion's boat from Brazil- Mauricio Santa Cruz). More news and photos after the regatta finishes this week. Meanwhile, check out Sandringham YC's webcam-- they've had spectacular weather. For more J/24 Australian Nationals sailing information
