Frostbite Series Race, December 2

In the true tradition of good neighbours, a most experienced member of Tenby Sailing Club came along to officiate at the race enabling all sailors to take to the water. When we arrived at the sailing club to prepare for the afternoon racing there was a big swell, breaking waves at the harbour mouth and, as forecast - an 18 mph wind - almost perfect sailing conditions for a December race, you might say. (Ancient Mariner makes jokes but it is envy really). Club Bosun Graham Wellman (Solo) was the first casualty - he broke his rudder and turtled, but that was the least of his worries. His dry suit bottom, being unaccompanied by matching top, collected water at an alarming rate... never mind the dinghy, he was sinking! There is a lesson to be learned here! This week, Nick Berridge returned from foreign parts, and launched his Topper Blaze afloat to challenge the runaway series leaders Alan Lambert (Solo) and Paul Johnson (OK). This week, it was the turn of Keith Jones (Laser Radial) to invert repeatedly, coping well with about 10 capsizes whilst Alan Lambert managed five only - Keith told our roving reporter Landlubber that the water was very pleasant and that when the sun shone he was actually quite hot out there (well, he would say that, they all do). Two races were run - Races 10 and 11 of the 'Autumn (Frostbite) Series'. Results for both races were: 1. Nick Berridge (Blaze); 2. Alan Lambert (Solo); 3. Paul Johnson (OK); 4. Keith Jones (Laser Radial). Although the wind was quite strong, it was found difficult to beat to windward due to gusts and swirls. Nevertheless it was rated a thoroughly enjoyable afternoon(!). Ancient Mariner's enquiries have failed to establish the identity of the Good Samaritan from Tenby Sailing Club who stepped in as OOD, and there seems to be a conspiracy of silence, but our sincere thanks for that welcome assistance. Thanks also to our own OOD assistant and the intrepid patrol boat crew. Following Race 11, the series leaders remain: 1. Alan Lambert - seven points; 2. Paul Johnson; 3. Keith Jones 29 points. The challengers are rapidly running out of races in which to improve their points tallies.

New Year Celebrations

The clubhouse will be open to members and their guests from 9 pm on New Year's Eve and again on New Year's Day from 11.30 am to 2 pm. It is a fine venue from which to watch the fireworks and to thaw out after just watching the New Year Day swimmers.

Annual Dinner Dance

While the hardy winter sailors were defrosting after their exposure to the elements, those members more attuned to comfort were putting on their glad rags in preparation for the Annual Dinner Dance, held on Saturday, again at the Merlewood Hotel. A thoroughly enjoyable evening. We knew trouble was brewing when our hard-working Commodore John Hollies was spotted with a thick tome entitled 'Dictionary of Nautical Terms'. There was no place for inconsequential chit chat as each table focussed on serious business - a quiz containing such nautical gems as: 1. What is the difference between flotsam and jetsam?; 2. If ante- meridian is before midday, when is ante-lucan?; 3. What would you do with a quant? Answers next week. There are times when to be ancient is a virtue. Ancient Mariner's table carried off a rich haul of Quality Street goodies.

Carols and Mince Pies

Members are reminded once again of the annual feast of song to be held in the clubhouse on Saturday, December 16. If you would like further information, please contact Anita on 812383.

Ancient Mariner