Sailchat 28 August 2023

West by North breeze blowing with cloud cover which produced some cats paws puffs making sailing interesting. Race team of Richard Cass and Rob Bunner produced a windward leeward course with an interesting diversion off Bell Hill. The best breeze being down river for most of the racing but in the afternoon it backed a bit and produced a few surprises!

In the morning just David Solo, whose leak had now transferred from the bailers to the flaps, hence a short postponement handled expertly by Hillary and Ava in the box, he is after all the HSS. Also taking part was Brian back from the old gaffers, in his Comet, Claude in the Pico and me with Hannah. Really nice race with the Surrey bank generally favoured up river. Harry was also out practicing in his Laser. This was followed by the Youth race with Elize Topper and Harry Laser.

In the afternoon a sudden invasion of sailors! Good showing of the Merlins with Hywell/Nicola, John Heath and youthful neighbour, Andrew/Claude and Richard with daughter Elizabeth.

In the Enterprises there was Ian/Susie, sailing away with poetic roll tacks, Jane/Emily and lone Peter (Alans Son) in Dame Blanche.

The Handicap was swollen by Nigel and David in Solo's, James and Sue (multi crew in every class) Comet, Brian Comet and Roger Laser.

The GP's were also out in force with Derek/Mary (looking very pastel), Trevor/Kevin, John/Ali and George with Chris. I was on the balcony with Jimmy and thought the sailing was very well mannered, but of course was not near the marks.

Tea was by Selena and Susie, with the most divine Victoria Sandwich (named after that robust Queen who probably eat too many of them) and Flapjacks by Ian. Bar was by occasional Alan.

Encouraging to see Sammy and Charlie out on a Topper with rather large crew!

Ian made some announcements about the Commodore's Dinner, The Magpie Race and the Dinner and Dance. Dates see programme or ask Alison.

Just a reminder ULEZ will be in force from 28.8. 23 today.

See you next week Sunday 3rd September.

Phill

Last updated 4:14pm on 13 May 2024