Feva Training Group

Sailing Report – John Smalley, Vice Commodore

Writing my first sailing report as Vice Commodore, can I take this opportunity to introduce myself to those who do not already know me? Sadly ‘new’ I am not, but those fond memories I have of doing the job all those years ago persuaded me to volunteer again! I hope I get to meet as many of you as possible before my term ends.

I am delighted that I was able to sweet talk that equally ‘new’ Keith Harris into taking over from me as Principal Race Officer. His wealth of experience will be invaluable to the sailing committee.

My first weekend in charge was marred by storm Brian. (No, not Brooks!). The Trafalgar Day singlehanded open had to be cancelled, and anyone who visited the lake on Saturday would have fully understood. But optimism reigned for Visitors Day on Sunday.

It was cheering to see a gathering of visitors arrive – most ex-Chewers including Nick Fisher, Simon Hawkes, Ed Presley and Ralph and Sophie Singleton with their RS800 to defend the Rose Bowl they won last year. The conditions were fairly wild in the morning discouraging many from setting out; eyebrows were raised when Pete Sherwin opted to use his Radial sail – it must be seriously windy!

The Chew troops held firm against the visitors all day. The morning RNLI trophies were won by Ian Cadwallader and Ellie Devereux in the F/Fifteen, and Pete Sherwin justifying his choice of rig.

The wind piped up for the afternoon Pursuit for the prestigious Rose Bowl. Many fell by the wayside. Ian and Ellie delighted the balcony watchers by broaching spectacularly on their firs spinnaker reach. Chris Goldhawk put on a hugely impressive display in his Solo – no more to suffer the indignity of being called a so-slow! The prize was won by Paul Smalley and Alex Knight in the Fireball which revelled in the windy conditions. The Top Club prize was won by Wimbleball, defeating sailors from Sutton Bingham, Cotswold, Lyme Regis and Datchet. The full results are on our website.

I also must mention the Race Officers Phil Pattullo and Andy Southall; they ran the event smoothly and their courses which avoided any gybes were appreciated by everybody, not least the rescue boats!

Contact email changes

Please note the change of email addresses for the following club officers: