Sunday racing
Five Ospreys of the usual participants, the RS600 of Dan Jackson and the 49er of Connor Keohane and Tommy D'Ortez came to the line for Sunday's club race run by race officer Emily Kirby. Calm, warm and sunny conditions, with a light wind from the south, made for a most enjoyable morning on the water.
A triangular course with the start at Monkstone and up wind leg towards Caldey was set, turning left at the windward mark and out into the bay before returning. At a congested start line, with all boats involved, the Osprey of Mike Stace and Deanna Morton and the RS600 of Dan Jackson got away first, avoiding the sound of compressing fibreglass caused by the 49er making a rule breaching barge through the start line.
The Osprey of Alistair Knibb and Alistair Mackay headed in shore, a tactic which paid for them as they emerged first at the windward mark, with Mike and Deanna and the 49er in hot pursuit, Ted Lewis and Matt Goldwait were not far off the pace and the Ospreys of Paul Evenden and Anthea Paterson and Rowley Squibbs with novice crew Danny Owen wer not far away.
On the subsequent broad reach/run, Ted and Matt went deep, while the other boats headed up a little to protect their wind. The deeper course was favoured and Ted and Matt emerged to lead at the jibe mark, but not for long.
The following tight reach was uneventful, and too tight for spinnakers to be flown. The race order was preserved through the next upwind leg, but on the next run, Mike and Deanna edged through Ted and Matt to leeward and took the lead. Throughout all this, the RS600 of Dan Jackson was making steady progress through the tight reach and windward legs, but losing ground to the other boats on the run.
After two laps, Paul Evenden engaged the afterburners and made rapid progress through the fleet to threaten the leaders. At the final jibe, Paul and Mike exchanged points of view and set off for the finish line, with Mike just taking line honours.
On corrected time the results were: Mike Stace and Deanna Morton; Paul Evenden and Anthea Paterson; Dan Jackson.
Junior Training
A record 40 youngsters turned up for the usual junior training session which resulted in 20 club boats on the water, a magnificent sight. Conditions were perfect for training, a good breeze in lovely sunshine.
After a very productive training session, the trainees and racers were treated to the universally acclaimed Terry Evans BBQ.
Sessions are planned for every Wednesday at 5.15 pm, weather permitting.
Passage Race
Last Saturday, over 30 cruisers set off from Hobbs Point intending to race to Tenby. Unfortunately, the wind diminished so much so that all but two motored into Tenby harbour.
John Griffiths, in yacht Tejeda, was one of the two who finished under sail after 10 hours of sailing. With several visiting yachts swelling the numbers, over 40 vessels anchored off the North Beach, a magnificent sight.
In the absence of BBQ king Terry Evans, who was on choral duties, Karin Morris and club steward Nicholas treated the ravenous sailors to a superb BBQ. Apparently, Nicholas's barbequed bananas with chocolate and cream went down a treat.
If the sailing had been disappointing, the social scene certainly made up for it.
Club Regatta and Round Caldey Race
This weekend sees the annual Tenby Sailing Club regatta and the popular race round Caldey Island.
Tomorrow's (Saturday's) racing starts at 12.30 with two races back to back. After a break for refreshment the usual pursuit race takes place.
Sunday's racing commences with the cruisers at 11 am, followed by the dinghy fraternity at 11.10.
Any member or friend who is able to help in any way should contact Blake Shaw on 842535.
Jam Evening
What a superb evening of varied music. One of the highlights was Oscar Acebras, a very talented gentleman from Argentina. He wowed the appreciative audience with his skill on the semi-acoustic guitar. He played a mixture of classic guitar with some 'modern' pieces and was later joined in some of his songs by well-known local jazz singer, Claudia Gunners.
Many thanks to Will Scott and Terry Evans for co-ordinating the event.
The next session will take place on Monday, July 13. Don't miss it, it's the place to be!
Club Steward and Opening Hours
As mentioned last week, the club is delighted to have acquired the services of Nicholas Bolwell, who will be our steward for the summer at least. He faced his first test when the usual ravenous hordes descended on the club on Friday evening. Nicholas handled the situation in a very professional manner, with all agreeing the food had been excellent, setting the standard for future events.
As I intimated last week, Nicholas is very keen to get on the right side of the ravenous hordes which frequent the club. There will be food available at all times, including some lunchtimes other than Sundays. Unfortunately, Sunday's planned menu was put on hold due to the aftermath of the passage race. There will be food from next Sunday, June 28.
I understand Nicholas is quite prepared to offer advanced booking for lunchtime or evenings. His number is 07966807944. Come on down and support Nicholas on his culinary ventures. The club will be open every evening and Sunday lunchtime for the foreseeable future.
Website
Information on club activities etc can be found on the club's website.
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 still on offer. Contact any member who will be delighted to furnish you with further details.
GP14