Tenby Sailing Club Race & Social Event Report

          The blustery north westerly that had blown strongly all day abated to a force 1 to 2 by race time on Wednesday evening. Four Ospreys, a Redwing an RS600, an RS500 and an RS Vareo came to the start line for the race run by Nick Berridge and Richard John. At the usual competitive start Rolly Squibbs & Marc Shepherd were vying with the Redwing of Mike Stace & Deanna Morton to cross first followed closely by the rest of the fleet. A long beat in to the harbour mark then right out to the eastern, jibe and back to the start completed the first lap. The 3 Ospreys of Rolly & Marc, Ted Lewis & Matt Goldwait and Paul & Anthea Evenden in that order and all quite close established a clear lead. The RS500 of Ed Dashfield & Emily Kirby and the Redwing of Mike & Deanna found the going tough in the light wind and increasing tide and could make no impact on the leaders. After 3 laps in pleasant evening sunshine and on corrected time the 3 Ospreys in the same order won the day.

          The light wind came and went as the racers waited for the start of Sunday's club race. A good turnout of a mixture of classes, 3 Ospreys, an RS500, an RS Vareo, a Phantom, a Wayfarer, a Mirror and a Comet took part but all found the very light conditions frustrating. At a close start it was the Ospreys of Ted Lewis & Matt Goldwait followed by Paul & Anthea Evenden away first closely followed by the rest of the fleet. Paul & Anthea quickly demonstrated their mastery of these light conditions to move into first place on the first beat, a position they maintained until the end. Behind them positions were won and lost at the whim of the wind gods; at one stage on the last leg of the race what began as a run turned into a broad reach on the other jibe, then a beam reach, a tight reach and eventually a beat, all within a distance of 500 yards or so. Second were Ted & Matt with Ed Dashfield & Emily Kirby third in their RS500. Thanks to race officer Marc Shepherd for his efforts in trying conditions.

          As usual the hordes of trainees descended on the club to enjoy a very successful evening's training in trying conditions. Many thanks to senior instructor Nick Berridge, and all who helped. If any member can help please contact Blake Shaw on 842535 or Terry Evans on 844256. Again, thanks in anticipation. As usual Terry Evans' universally acclaimed barbecue took place with the hordes of salivating trainees and sailors tasting some superb food. These barbecues will continue throughout them summer so please support Terry and the club.

          Last Saturday the adult training run by Mark Dashfield attracted a good turnout resulting in several participants being awarded a Level 1 RYA certification in sailing. The following were successful in reaching the standard required for Level 1:

          Commodore, Terry Evans, presented the certificates after the successful helpers meeting held on Monday which was headed by principal race officer for the Firefly championships, Mark Dashfield. Mark Dashfield is very grateful for the help given by Ed Dashfield, Mark Brace, Colin Parmenter and Marc Shepherd during the Saturday training series.

          As mentioned over the last four weeks, the club is hosting the Firefly championships this year. They will take place during next week commencing tomorrow, Saturday, August 14th when 65 dinghies are expected. This is an important week in the club's calendar which puts a demand on the club's resources and manpower. The allocation of duties is complete but occasionally changes have to be made due to unforeseen circumstances, hence a further plea follows. Commodore Terry Evans and the committee would be most appreciative of any help given by members and/or friends. If you are in a position to help in any way please contact commodore Terry Evans on 844256 or e-mail him on nicter@evans8uhp.freeserve.co.uk, who will inform the appropriate person who has responsibility in a particular area. Thanks in anticipation.

          A most enjoyable evening was had by all who attended the jam session. Many thanks to Nick Thomas and Terry Evans for coordinating the event. The next session will be an acoustic jam on Monday August 23rd. Don't miss it!

          The commodore, Terry Evans, invites members and friends to the annual Dinner Dance and Prize Giving which will take place on Friday, November 19th. On Saturday November 20th the Annual General meeting will take place at the club. More details to follow.

          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 which is still on offer. Contact any member who will be delighted to furnish you with further details.

          GP14