For some unknown reason last week's report went astray and is still wandering in the cosmos.

Sunday, December 18: Racing was held in glorious sunshine and force 4 in the bay. Several boats ventured out to the start line set by Dan Jackson giving a beat to the harbour followed by two reaches.

Most of the regulars were missing with various excuses, but I think most were off doing last minute Christmas shopping in order to impress the spouses so new equipment or boats could be ordered for next season. You know the score.

Lady in Red's owner came down to adjust the cover to stop water swamping the boat, maybe the cover will be used in the racing as well next year.

A clean start, appreciated by the race officer given the large number of competitors, saw all the boats sail towards the first mark. With a shifty first beat, especially under the cliffs, the fleet converge at the harbour mark with various shouts of starboard and water before the fleet set out for the gybe mark. The Ospreys took off planing down the waves on a three sail reach disappearing in a wash of spay a glorious sight in the North Bay.

The club Laser sailed by Mike was hot on the heels of the Ospreys also enjoying reaching in the favourable conditions. Deanna must have put her foot down and voted to not sail with the frost on the ground. Mike did have to chip three inches of ice off the cover first.

Four or five rounds later when the race officer got bored of watching the racing the finish flag was raised. A win for Mike Stace in the club Laser probably sees him take the Frostbite series.

All boats returned safely ashore for hot soup and bacon butties in the club afterwards.

As the 2011 season draws to a close, we look forward to the 2012 season with the introduction of two divisions of racing to encourage more boats on the water, including the juniors.

There is much more sailing than just Wednesday sail training. The Saturday series has been extended to include more races throughout the season. The regatta is in early June and hopefully weather permitting, we might even get round Caldey. Time now for the winter repairs and fitting of all the new Christmas toys to the boats. Have an excellent sailing new year.

The Sailing Captain

Junior Section

The junior Christmas party was very well attended. Several games were enjoyed by the plethora of eager juniors including the modern Wii and the traditional 'pass the parcel'. The ample buffet was contributed by parents and members and was much appreciated by all present. The evening was a thoroughly relaxing and enjoyable occasion.

Christmas Party

The club Christmas party took place in which several members and friends enjoyed festive games and cheers. The hamper draw took place resulting in a hamper for Paula May and Deanna Morton. Thanks to all who contributed and many thanks to Terry Evans, Karin Morris and Madame Commodore, Dina Brace, for feeding the ravenous.

Boxing Day

The club was a buzz of post Christmas cheer on Boxing Day, especially after the record-breaking swim. The annual draw took place which offered some superb prizes. Many thanks to Paul and Anthea Evenden for feeding the masses and to Terry Evans, Ann and Paul Thomas and Blake Shaw for quenching the thirsty.

Darts

A great deal of practice is required before the next match on January 6.

Social Programme

The latest newsletter has been circulated and includes details of social events for the foreseeable future. Please support the club's efforts on the social front. Just a few dates to note - Terry Evans has agreed to put on a bangers and mash and quiz evening on January 21, a surf and turf evening on February 18, and a cheese and cawl evening on March 3. There will also be a cheese and wine evening, a soup evening, some music evenings and some theme evenings. Dates will be published soon.

New Year's Eve

Great news! In keeping with recent tradition, the club has acquired the services of a caterer who will be putting on food on New Year's Eve (tomorrow). This year, it will be a gala buffet to include three courses. Tickets will be £18 per head for adults and £9.50 per head for children. Numbers have gone well and will be limited. There may be a few places left so please make your reservations as soon as possible today, by contacting vice-commodore, Mark Brace, on 07831579772 or email him on mark.brace1@btopen world.com. It promises to be a great evening.

Jam Evening

What a great evening of music enjoyed by all present. From blues to country, the appreciative audience were treated to a feat of music. Many thanks to Nic Thomas and Terry Evans for coordinating the event. The next electric jam will be on Wednesday, January 18, whilst the next acoustic jam will rake place on Monday, January 23. It's the place to be!

Howard

The club is extremely grateful for Howard's efforts in keeping the ravenous at bay. His legendary steak pie will be missed! We hope Howard will be back in the new season.

Opening Hours

We have returned to winter openings of Friday, Saturday evenings and Sunday lunchtime. Why not call in for 'lemonade' - there are not many 'watering holes' with a vista like ours.

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. Contact any member who will be delighted to furnish you with further details.

May I, on behalf of the commodore and club members, wish all our avid readers a very happy and prosperous New Year.

GP14