As mentioned last week the recent Merlin Rockets Championships was a great success.
Seventy-three boats took part which meant a busy time for all concerned.
On Saturday evening the competitors and supporters were welcomed by commodore Terry Evans, followed by a briefing given by race officer Blake Shaw.
Sunday's race was contested in a strong south-westerly which tested the competitors, especially those who had not sailed on the sea before. The winner was John Bell crewed by Graham Williamson. These lively conditions prompted a great deal of discussion during the commodore's reception held on Sunday evening. Many thanks to Sheila Spiller and Anne Hutchings for putting on a great spread.
Unfortunately, Monday's racing was cancelled due to extremely poor visibility. However, the competitors were very philosophical about the decision and retired to partake of a few lemonades in the clubhouse.
Tuesday's programme was changed to include two races in order to make up for Monday's lost race. Conditions were lighter than Sunday, but sufficiently demanding to test the competitors. The winner of the first race was Phil King crewed by Ben Rhodes and the winner of the second race was Mike Calvert crewed by Alex Jackson.
In the evening, the competitors were treated to a mouth-watering barbecue.
Wednesday's races were contested in slightly lighter winds with the usual frantic jockeying for position at the start. The winner of the first race was Richard Whitworth crewed by Sally Townend and the winner of the second race was Mike Calvert crewed by Alex Jackson. The evening's disco, DJ Gina, was a great success with revellers very appreciative of Gina's choice of music.
Thursday's conditions were slightly breezier with the winner being Mike Calvert crewed by Alex Jackson.
Competitors were impressed by the evening's buffet laid on by Sheila and Anne.
Conditions on Friday were very similar to Sunday. However, the seas did calm somewhat which pleased the tired fleet. The winner was Richard Whitworth crewed by Sally Townend.
The prizes were presented by madame commodore Nicole Evans with the overall winner being Phil King crewed by Ben Rhodes. Well done!
Commodore, Terry Evans, thanked the class for choosing Tenby and commended them on their positive attitude and politeness shown throughout the week.
Race officer Blake Shaw and beachmaster Paul Jackson were presented with crystal glasses for their efforts during the week.
Thanks also to Sheila Spiller and Anne Hutchings for their sterling work in organising the 'galley', to Terry Evans for co-ordinating the safety boats and to Mark Dashfield and company who spent the week on the committee boat with Blake Shaw organising the racing.
Many thanks also go to Saundersfoot Sailing Club for their invaluable help with the safety boats.
Thanks also to our steward Howard Ball who managed to keep his cool during a very busy week.
The week was finished off in style by the band, led by Ritchy, who gave a superlative performance which was borne out by the repeated calls for more!
It takes a great deal of effort and time to run a major championship. This would not be possible, but for the time given up by several members of the club. Again, many thanks!
Last Wednesday was back to normal club training and racing with the usual large turnout of trainees being put through their paces by Ed Dashfield.
Results were as follows: 1. Mike Stace (Redwing); 2. Tim Brace (Mirror); 3. Sonny D'Ortez (Topper).
There was no racing on Sunday. The Redwings are away at Fishguard taking part in their National Championships - more next week.
There is a committee meeting this Monday - members please note, hopefully the social programme for the autumn will be finalised after the meeting.
Anyone wishing to join this thriving club should contact any member who will be pleased to offer further details.
GP14