Royal Marines Challenge
The two races last Sunday were the first two (out of three) for the Royal Marines Cup and were run in suitably challenging conditions which the Marines would have been proud of.
There was a fresh force 4 swirling round the bay gusting to 5 or 6 at times providing some really stiff conditions. Malcolm Williams as OOD decided to start the race at Wiseman's Bridge with a beat towards the Harbour then around the Pendine mark and back to the start.
Eight boats set out for the start including three juniors - Ben Roberts and Harry and Ben Hinksman - together with a mini fleet of four Solos. After a testing race just three boats made it to the finish to make it a Solo class event, although Ben Roberts in the Oppie almost made it.
The placings were: 1. Paul Griffiths; 2. Alan Lambert; 3. Paul Johnson.
The second race was again from Wisemans Bridge - although some felt that it would have been safer to stay in the pub and only the three leading Solo's from the first race decided to continue!
The OOD decided to reverse the course, unfortunately Paul J was not told and was feeling really good way out in the lead until he realised that the others were sailing a different course! Only Paul Griffiths finished out of the three boats starting with Paul and Alan retiring.
Overall, it was very entertaining and a good time was had by all despite the difficult and challenging conditions.
Sunday Racing
The final race for the Royal Marines Cup has a 5.30 pm start this Sunday.
Sail Training
The intensive training week commences at 2 pm on Monday, July 26, through to Friday, July 30. The Lady Helm and Junior Helm races will follow on Saturday, July 31, starting at 10 am.
A series of evening sessions has been arranged to provide training on Advance Sailing Techniques for those involved in Sunday Club racing and to all those who help with Sail Training.
The programme is as follows: Saturday, August 7, from 1400 hours, Tuesday, August 10, from 1630 hours, Saturday, August 21, from 1430 hours, Tuesday, August 24, from 1630 hours.
For more information and to book into these sessions, please contact Malcolm Williams on 01994 448383.
Social Events
All members are invited to a social evening at 7.30 pm on Saturday, July 31, after the junior and lady helm races. Wendy's excellent home-made food will be available.
A hog roast is planned for everyone on Saturday, August 28, as part of our Regatta weekend. Our last hog roast was one of the best events ever experienced in the club and it is hoped that members will support and enjoy this one just as much.
Volunteers to help with the regatta (sailing and catering) are still required, please contact Chris Bannister (01437 541318), Graham (07890 987825) or Wendy (01834 813324).
Newsletter
A copy of Windward - the club newsletter will be emailed or posted to all members shortly with current news and an urgent request for members' views on various issues.
News of
Members
News of members achievements sometimes reaches us by a pretty circuitous route! An article in the Penarth Mercury reports on Megan Borman's recent achievement in the club youth racing circuit at Mumbles when she came fourth in her Topper. Well done Megan and don't forget the lady helm race back home on Saturday, July 31.
Nautical Nip
I was looking over some ancient history of our club the other day and found some interesting reflections.
With all the current stress over costs and finances, it was salutary to note that subscriptions in 1949, the first year of SSC, were a humble five shillings - that's just 25p in new money!
Club reserves were £11-4s-10d (£11.24p) - that would make current day treasurer's eyes water!
Sailing arrangements were much simpler too, with a five minute gun and a starting flag which was lowered to indicate shorten course.
I guess the only thing that has not altered is the satisfaction and enjoyment from sailing which keeps us all going.
Skipper's Mate