Tenby Sailing Club Race Results & Social Events.

          Last weekend's regatta saw two days of very contrasting conditions. A very strong breeze greeted the sailors on Saturday which was to prove very testing indeed.

          With all safety boat crews and helms in position the racing eventually got underway. After a fairly uneventful beat, the first reach was such that all boats planed to the gybe mark which, traditionally, saw several spectacular capsizes, all of which were righted by very competent helms and crew.

          It was soon apparent that the wind strength was increasing, not diminishing as anticipated by the local forecast. As a consequence of this dramatic increase, several helms made the decision to retire in the interest of safety.

          However, several boats completed the three-lap course, which is a testimony to the skill of both helm and crew.

          Race officer Brian Caffey took stock of the conditions and called off any further racing that day, much to the relief of the competitors.

          Sunday's conditions were much more sedate, with both the cruiser fraternity and the dinghy fleet relishing the prospect of the Round Caldey Race.

          Starters Terry Evans and Tony Spiller got proceedings off promptly at 11 a.m., with the cruisers slowly but steadily making the start line. Fifteen minutes later the main dinghy fleet got underway, a spectacular sight, with over 50 boats vying for position.

          Once around St. Margaret's, the wind picked up and both fleets made good progress, accompanied by a selection of safety boats. As expected, the Asymmetrics and Robin Wood's International Canoe took to the front, with the more traditional craft following closely.

          The local wildlife, including several observant seals, must have been amazed by the variety of craft passing by.

          After approximately two hours, all boats had completed the circumnavigation of Caldey, with unanimous agreement that the experience was most enjoyable and invigorating.

          There follows a summary of the leading results:

          1st Redwing: Mike Stace and Deanna Morton, who retain the Cadwallader Galleon.

          1st Laser: Steve Rich.

          Overall: 1. Steve Rich in a Laser; 2. Govan Berridge in a Laser Radial; 3. Robert Dangerfield in a Tasar; 4. S. Evans in a Laser; 5. Steve Stubbs in a Laser; 6. Mike Stace and Deanna Morton in a Redwing.

          1st Redwing: Rolly Squibbs and Helen Williams.

          1st Laser: Steve Rich.

          1st Laser 4000: Dave Williams.

          Overall: 1. Robin Wood in an International Canoe, who picks up the coveted Commander Lock Trophy; 2. Steve Rich in a Laser; 3. Rolly Squibbs and Helen Williams in a Redwing; 4. Bill Dowell and Nan D'Ortez in a Redwing; 5. Mike Stare and Deanna Morton in a Redwing; 6. Nick White in a Wayfarer; 7. Nick Berridge in a Phantom; 8. Robert Dangerfield in a Tasar.

          Cruisers: 1. Dan Lewis on a Hawke 22; 2. J. Griffiths in Tejeda; 3. Blake Shaw in Slipstream.

          All agreed that the weekend had been a tremendous success which is result of the hard work put in by several members and friends.

          Many thanks to all who so freely gave of their time. An event such as a regatta does not happen overnight. Weeks of planning take place, culminating in a weekend such as this.

          The club is indebted to the enthusiastic members of Saundersfoot Sailing Club, who helped the safety boat contingent. Also, a special thanks to race officer Brian and the galley crew of Ruth Tebbutt, Karen Morris and Sally Llewellyn, who kept the ravenous satisfied.

          Terry Evans is also very grateful to Karen for her major role in his world famous Barbecue, which the sailors were privileged to partake of on Saturday evening.

          I'm delighted to report that one of our juniors, Tommy D'Ortez, had a very successful time at the recent South Wales Laser Youth at Port Talbot. He managed an impressive six firsts out of six races - no mean achievement considering the field. Well done Tommy, keep it up.

          While on successful juniors, Jonathan Lewis has again won through to the next round of the powerboat handling competition organised by the RYA. You may recall that Jonathan narrowly missed out on the national prize last year. We wish him well in the next round in September. Tommy D'Ortez is also showing great promise in this discipline by coming second in the same qualifier.

          This weekend sees the Welsh Schools Championship at Mumbles. Our very own Blake Shaw is at the helm - let us hope he has a trouble free weekend and our juniors are successful.

          In the meantime, racing as usual on Sunday and Wednesday. The Wednesday sessions, often curtailed by inclement weather, are becoming more and more popular. So much so that any parent or member who can lend a hand will be welcomed with open arms.

          The next major sailing event is the Firefly National Championship which the club is delighted and honoured to host. This event attracts Firefly sailors from far and wide, several of whom are making a return visit, such is Tenby's reputation for race management.

          The social scene continues mainly on a culinary theme, with the two world famous 'chefs', Terry Evans and Howard Ball, satisfying the drooling, ravenous masses with their fine cuisine. This weekend, it's Howard's turn to taunt your taste buds! He looks forward to feeding you.

          Finally, would members please note that the clubhouse will be open every evening until September.

          GP14