Cat44 Sailor of the Year Trophy 2004

2004 saw the launch of a whole new racing format designed to improve the fleet's already formidable racing skills and encourage regular attendance.

The stunning new Cat44 Sailor of the Year Trophy, in fine Waterford Crystal, generously donated by Ocean Machinery (one of our site sponsors) was contested over 3 series each comprising 4 months and the best 5 events from each series counted towards the series results as well as the overall results.

So to compete for the trophy, you either had to have at least 5 first place finishes every series, or you had to show up every weekend, compete well and pray that you competitors screwed up. 

During the year, attendance increased dramatically and soon we were seeing in excess of 10 boats on the on a regular basis - something not seen for many a year. And in the pursuit of the trophy, several of the skippers splashed out and purchased new boats making Cat44 one of the crispest Hobie 16 fleets in the country.

Racing was very competitive and every Sunday the racing was always up for grabs. Attendance and consistence was the name of the game.

Danny Steyn, Cat44 Sailor of the Year for 2004 with Stacey Serrer, his faithful and excellent crew

With some lucky breaks Danny Steyn clinched the beautiful new Ocean Trophy winning the 1st and 3rd series and despite a midfield 4th place finish in the 2nd series. Hunter Fry came awfully close to capturing the title, chasing and leading Danny in the chase to the Trophy, only losing out in the last few races of the year. Bill Stolberg was consistently at the front of the field, and finished a close 3rd.

Dick Russell showed he is still a contender with a strong 4th place edging out strong newcomer Chris Summers, who definitely has what it takes. Steve Maffetone had a good year too edging out Mark Jones. Mark only started racing in the 2nd Series which he won convincingly with 4 first place finishes and a second, and definitely was the man to beat when he showed up. Early leader Bob Shell faded to 8th while Seb Lewis and a much improved Tom Klash sailing at last on a new boat, rounded out the Top 10

2004 Sailor of the Year Results (as of 12/12/2004 - 2 events remaining)

Skipper

Series 1

Series 2

Series 3

FINAL

1st

Danny Steyn

1

4

1

6

2nd

Hunter Fry

2

1

4

7

3rd

Bill Stolberg

4

6

2

13

4

Dick Russell

3

5

8

16

5

Chris Summers

7

3

6

16

6

Steve Maffetone

5

6

5

16

7

Mark Jones

16

1

3

20

8

Bob Shell

5

8

10

23

9

Seb Lewis

10

10

9

29

10

Tom Klash

11

9

12

32