Number 15 in the M2G Cruising with Spinnakers Division, is Galaxy!

She is known to most of us who've been on the Bay for a while and there are even some sailors (on a well known and very colourful Grand Prix boat) who have been known to follow her around pre-start, like little lap dogs.

Galaxy on her way to Geelong in 2008.

At any rate, we are delighted she will be joining us for the M2G on September 11. We've heard from her crew boss, Charlie Aquilina and this is what he has to say, 'Galaxy is a Steinmann designed 48ft Cruiser/Racer that was launched in 1990 by her builder and owner, Arch Burns. It took him 10 years to build her and he knows every piece that went it to making this fine craft.'

'We have raced in many events around the Bay ever since and sail to Geelong for the week of racing in January, every year. In 2008 we won the Cruising with Spinnaker Division of Scandia/Geelong Week. The big blue boat shown here is known by many sailors around the traps as, 'Galaxy'. Ed. - To those sailors I mentioned earlier - Hi!

'While we have raced many short courses up in the top end of the Bay this season, the ORCVs Melbourne to Geelong race gives Galaxy a chance to stretch her legs and allows the crew to have some fun, with a weekend away in Geelong. We are really looking forward to this race.'

Well done. The ORCV is looking forward to having you around and RGYC are ready for us all, too!

Right then. You may wish to join all the other vessels and yet not want to have to organise a massive crew or get too busy to have a whole lot of fun. Solution - join the Cruising with Spinnakers Division, even if you have been in the Racing Divisions previously. Pretty Woman was the first to cross over for this particular event, then 2009 Melbourne to Hobart Eastcoaster racer, Biddy Hu II showed up on the cruising roster and won R5 of the MWS to boot, then Magic and Independent Endeavour, as well. Boats such as Ocean Safari, Vantage, Caledonia and Dream, could well do the same...