Sailing and Social Report 24-Mar-17

Sailing in 2017/18 – Toby Peacock, Joint Sailing Sec.

The new season – our 50th! – kicks off in April, with a host of events to take advantage of the longer daylight hours and warmer weather. Whatever your sailing ambitions there is something for you to welcome in the start of our 50th season.

The racing season opens in style with the John Jarrett and Commodore’s Cup races on 2nd April. These are two of the oldest, most prestigious and beautiful trophies to win at Chew, with the list of previous winners being a roll call of our finest sailing talent. If the thrill of the chase is what floats your boat the Commodore’s Cup is the event for you – a pursuit race lasting 60-90 minutes depending on your class of boat. In contrast the John Jarret has one mass start, which is quite a sight to behold; Flying Fifteens, Toppers and RS 800s all vying for the perfect starting spot.

The following weekend (8th-9th April) Chew hosts the UK Laser Masters Inland Championships. This is an excellent and well-deserved opportunity for our Laser fleet (possibly the biggest in the country) to pit their wits against some of the country’s finest Laser sailors, and with home advantage! Good luck to all!

A true sign that summer is on the way is the start of the Wednesday evening series. Undoubtedly the most popular event in the racing calendar, what better way to break the week up than an evening sail followed by a hot meal and freshly ground coffee or a pint with the best views in the region? The practice race is on April 12th, with the slightly earlier start time of 1830 – so make sure you leave work promptly! Subsequent Wednesdays start at 7pm and continue through to August.

Lake and Cake, first of the season, starts on April 1st, briefing at 1.45 on the water from 2pm. CLADS begins on 22nd April and Chew Crew take to the water at the end of April.

Sailing Report – Helen Martin, Vice Commodore

Another week of contrasts; light winds today (Wednesday) and strong and gusty at the weekend.

Seventeen sailors enjoyed the Laser training on Saturday 18th. Fresh to strong conditions made the day both challenging and exhilarating for trainees and coaches alike! Great to see a mixture of novice racers, experts and almost as many ladies as gents. Thanks to Steve & Laura Smith, Peter Sherwin and Phil Pattullo. The 90 second ‘best bits’ video highlights are on YouTube.

On Sunday, discretion took over from valour. Sailors voted with their feet after a challenging morning and sailing was abandoned for the afternoon.

Chew Crew

Chew Crew information has been published on the club website. Click here to read it.

Feva Training in Y&Y

Well done to everyone involved, this article in Yachts and Yachting about the Feva training on 11th and 12th has some lovely feedback about our great club.