After the RS200 championships, it was back to normal for the sailing fraternity. The eager Osprey fleet took to the water this Sunday in what some saw as light conditions that proved to be anything but!  In the absence of the annual Tenby Regatta round Caldey race earlier in the year, which was cancelled due to gale force winds, race office Terry Evans set a course that took the fleet out towards Caldey and instead of 'rounding' it decided to keep the fleet within the bay, with a beat across the front of the island, a return run in the opposite direction with a fast fetch for home. The usual closely contested start resulted in a narrow lead for commodore Dan Jackson and Chris Mackay, with Rolly Squibbs and Marc Shepherd close behind.  As the fleet spread out, Rolly and Marc managed to catch and pass the commodore, so that by the first mark they had the lead. A blustery beat across the front of the island resulted in great tactical racing, with Mike Stace and Deanna Morton moving up to third position chasing the two leaders. Rolly and Marc rounded the windward mark in front, but a snagged spinnaker and near capsize on the run back across Caldey resulted in Dan and Chris moving to the front of the pack. The final fetch home had Mike and Deanna pulling back on the leaders, with the commodore's shouts of 'catch up' to second placed Rolly and Marc nearly proving embarrassing. However, Dan and Chris held on to take a well deserved victory. Well done Ed Dashfield and Emily in their RS400, who proved sailing was definitely a sport of highs and lows, notably with a great start and first leg as the highs and the dreaded capsize as the low.  It should be noted that Tenby now has one of the largest Osprey fleets in the country, with the close racing this year proving both exciting but also how little it can cost to start racing a competitive dinghy. Just ask the commodore for  more details. The final 1-2-3 was as follows: 1. Daniel Jackson and Chris Mackay in an Osprey; 2. Rolly Squibbs and Marc Shepherd in an Osprey; 3. Mike Stace and Deanna Morton in an Osprey. Many thanks to Terry Evans and Jane Brace for their part in a most enjoyable morning of sailing. I'm grateful for the above contribution from Marc Shepherd.

Junior Sailing

Last Wednesday saw the usual plethora of juniors being put through their paces by Blake Shaw and Mark Dashfield. The juniors have made excellent progress this year. The positions of fifth and eighth, respectively, in a very large entry, of club juniors, Connor Keohane and Jonathan Morris, in the recent Acorn event held at Langors, is a testimony to the success of the club's juniors programme. Would juniors please note that there are a maximum of two Wednesday sessions remaining, depending on light and weather conditions.   Jam Session

The next eagerly awaited jam session takes place next Wednesday, September 12. It's the place to be, so don't miss it! Discounted Club Membership

If anyone is interested in learning to sail or would like to enjoy a superb social scene, then this is the club for you. Why not join now and enjoy a sizable discount for the first year. For further details, contact membership secretary, Julia Dashfield, on 844918.

Committee Meeting

The rescheduled committee meeting will take place this Monday at the usual time. Members please note.

Dinghy Park

Would dinghy park users please note that the annual fees are overdue and prompt payment would be appreciated. Please contact Daniel Jackson on 813397 for further details.

Club Openings

Would members please note the following amendment to the opening times. As from next week, the club will open on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings, as well as Sunday lunchtime. This arrangement will continue to the end of September when there will be a further review.

End of Season Party

Would members and friends please note that the annual 'end of season' party will take place on Saturday, October 6. I understand the fancy dress theme is Cowboys and Indians. More details to follow.

Social Programme

The autumn and winter social programme is being prepared, which will include live music, culinary evenings, quizzes etc. Watch this space.

Darts

The darts season is almost upon us. Captain Terry Evans expects a good showing this year. Will the team deliver? We wait with eager anticipation.

Important Dates

Every Wednesday - junior sailing commencing at 5.30 pm, followed by the mouth-watering Terry Evans barbecue. Wednesday, September 12 - blues jam evening. Not to be missed. This is a very friendly and welcoming club, which endeavours to involve all members in a variety of activities. If anyone would like to join us, now is an ideal time, especially with the discount on offer. Contact any member who will be delighted to furnish you with further details.

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