by Pip Pietromonaco, Adam H Smith

The unique vision of this regatta is to encourage female participation in sailing whilst also recognising and celebrating the outstanding achievements of Australia’s female sailors.  Peta Pietromonaco, the driving force behind this regatta from its inception, once again has managed to bring together female Olympians, regatta winners, club sailors and those just starting their sailing journeys for this two-day event with a special atmosphere.

The team of coaches this year was outstanding and included three Olympians; Tessa Parkinson, Karyn Gojnich and Jessica Crisp.  Along with Kate Lathouras Amelia Catt, Tess Lloyd, Pip Solly, Eliza Solly, Kate Hannah and Pip Pietromonaco they provided a nurturing environment whilst challenging the participants on and off the water.

The event is also about mentoring for female race officials, allowing them to enhance their skills and capabilities.  Everyone is learning together, another fantastic and unique aspect of this event.  Louise Hutton has been the Principle Race Officer for four years and has been outstanding in her role mentoring the many volunteers at this event and encouraging them to take away their learnings and assist the race management teams at their home yacht clubs. 

The dedicated team of volunteers from Westernport Yacht Club and women from yacht clubs throughout Victoria were essential in making the weekend the success it was.  All competitors were treated to a delicious dinner on Saturday night, prepared and presented by the lovely ladies at Westernport YC.  This creates the environment for a fantastic night where all competitors enjoy socialising with other competitors and coaches over the best homemade dinner, you will find anywhere, of course accompanied by superb Montalto wines. 

This year the Victorian Government contributed to the regatta by giving a generous grant to go towards the event.  This is fantastic to see them supporting grass-roots female sporting events. 

Finally, thank you to all our competitors and congratulations to all our division winners. Melanie Attard and Isabelle Mathews won the 2017 Montalto Perpetual Trophies.  Both Melanie and Isabelle showed great determination and sportsmanship across the weekend. They were both extremely enthusiastic to learn and their lovely attitude over the weekend was noticed by all competitors, volunteers and race officials.