Club Racing

The continuing brilliant weather is bringing more boats out for the racing each week. Last Sunday, 16 dinghies rigged up to take part in the final two races of the mid-season series and compete for a special trophy as well. All the 'big guns' were out, apart from our talented new Oppie sailor, Aled with his broken thumb, who had to contend with being head hooter blower and flag raiser (under the keen scrutiny of his dad!) Once again, there was some very close competition with mere seconds, after handicap adjustments, between many boats The trophy race flew off to Monkstone all grouped ready to tussle at the first gybe mark where there were a couple of spills, but nothing to cause concern. The race was so well grouped that the OOD was having trouble deciding when to shorten the course as all the youngsters, after their recent training and practice, seemed to be holding their own against some of the more seasoned sailors of the fleet. After handicap adjustments, there was mere seconds between a large number of boats in this race which was eventually won by Peter Bower in his Phantom, second was David Plester in the Solo and third Katie Hayden in the Craig y Mor club Laser.  The second race started in the opposite direction to the first, to throw a bit of confusion into the pot and off they went to Amroth without stopping for tea. All of a sudden, boats were going over like it was a capsize practice session! Having recovered from these diversions, the boats set about the course as if Olympic medals were up for grabs. The wind and weather were in perfect unison to keep the watching crowds wondering what was happening out there. At the same time, the outdoor Sunday service was proceeding and unfortunately the church choir started at the same moment as the hooter blasts for finishing the race. This was embarrassing, but it isn't possible to delay the hoot for each competitor as they finish! Mike Cemm, a guest sailor from Swanage SC, finished first by two seconds, but this is not eligible in the series race where the results were: 1. Peter Bower, 2. Paul and Julia Griffiths (N12) and 3. Katie Hayden. Ben Roberts and Hywel Jackson, both in Toppers, had a hum-dinging contest, finishing just one second apart after 30 minutes of racing. Thanks to race officers Mick and Judy and to safety crew Tom, Terry, Peter and Ben.   Racing Results 

Mid-season final results and trophy winners will be announced when sailing secretary Mick has managed to marry his daughter off this week. (what a conflict of priorities!)   Next Racing

Two races are scheduled for a 10 am start this coming Sunday - the first of the late season series.

Clubhouse Opening

Last Saturday night's opening proved a success with a pleasant evening enjoyed by a good group of members together with some Irish visitors. Andrew and Bodil have kindly committed to staffing the next two Saturdays from 6.30 pm, but thereafter, we need some other volunteers to maintain Saturday opening. If members feel that this is a worthwhile venture, please can we have some support to staff it from all those who enjoy the benefits of our well-placed and comfortable clubhouse. Please contact Ivan on (01834) 812249 or [email protected]">[email protected]

Dating Agency Expands!

The facility to bring prospective skippers and crews together that was reported last week is intended to embrace not only yachts, but also motor boats, fishing vessels or any other craft for the benefit of all members to obtain more water activity. Please sign up on the register in the entrance to the clubhouse. For more information, contact Dave Jones on 07969 502955 or [email protected]">[email protected]

Skipper's Mate