SEASONS GREETINGS
Another year draws to an end and one that came with its challenges, but despite the BREXIT and Trump factors the sailing club has grown and developed significantly into a stronger, even better managed and happy place to be, for which I would like to thank all of those involved on the Committees, in volunteering for numerous different activities and roles and to the members for continuing to support the club.
It is the collective ethos and attitude that makes the club successful and how often I hear our visitors comment on how friendly everyone is and how well organised are the events. So as we enter our 50th anniversary year let’s celebrate that success and recognise all of those past and present who have made their contribution.
Our celebrations will begin at 10am on Sunday 1 January 2017 when sailing commences for the first time in the 50th anniversary celebration year. Use the opportunity to clear your head and start the year as you intend to go on.
Have a wonderful Christmas and I look forward to seeing you all in the New Year.
Rob Mitchell, Commodore
SAILING REPORT
I don’t know if the 29er sailors managed to sail at all last Saturday- there was very little wind! A few people turned up on Sunday morning hoping, I assume, that the forecast for very little to zero wind might be wrong. Unsurprisingly most went home again.
A few Solos went out to practice light wind sailing and by 12.30 there was a bit more than a tiny zephyr. RO Paul Smalley rallied the troops, all 7 of us, for a couple of short races. It’s not often that there are more people on duty than actually sailing! It was absolutely delightful on the lake as long as you didn’t want to go anywhere fast – although Alex Timms kept his Solo moving to give Andy and Jonathan Harris (National 12) some competition. The rest of us tried valiantly to follow behind.
Afterwards a very jolly and sociable group gathered to enjoy mulled wine, mince pies and sausage rolls in the bar –thank you Hilary, Christine and Grainne.
Good conditions on Wednesday saw a number of boats – Laser, Solo, Flying 15, Oppie and Topper – on the water enjoying pleasant SSW winds with even a few bonus sunny patches as a reward.
Helen Martin, Vice Commodore
COMING UP
A reminder that there is no duty team on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
Come sailing on Boxing Day, Monday 26th – Tap Trophy Race, start time 13:30.
Andy Harris has kindly offered to organise volunteers for race and safety team on the day. First person in – please set up the signing in sheet at the inner gate – thank you.
New Year’s Day, Sunday 1st January, Resolution Trophy Race 13:30 and the start of the club’s 50th Anniversary year!