Tenby Sailing Club Race Results & Social Events.

          Each year, the club runs the National Championship of a particular class of dinghy. This year, we are hosts to the Enterprise class which is a well established dinghy with a large following. The Enterprise is a cross between a Redwing and a GPl4 (crudely speaking) with the characteristic blue mainsail. The event takes place during the first week in August when at least 50 boats will descend on Tenby Harbour. Each boat has two sailors aboard which, as well as the usual following, means a large number of people to cater for. This can only be good for the harbour and the town.

          Running a major championship needs a great deal of time and effort by key personnel, culminating in several members and friends giving of their time in order to ensure the week runs smoothly. Hence an early request for any volunteers who can help during the week, July 31st to August 6th.

          We won! I'll repeat that for the sake of the disbelievers: We won! Inspired by captain Terry Evans' masters performance, the team pulled out all the stops and eventually overcame a very spirited opposition. The winning dart was thrown by new recruit, Chris, which delighted the team - the celebrations are still continuing. There's no fixture tonight (Friday) so the obligatory practice will take place - there will be food available for the ravenous. The captain expects a good turnout.

          The evening certainly lived up to expectation. A lively turnout thoroughly enjoyed an evening of laughter and thrills. Twenty-four entrants for the actual race meant six heats had to be run before the final. These heats consisted of a five minute practice session, followed by a 10 minute race with four competitors attempting to complete as many laps as possible in the given time.

          All the races were keenly contested and watched by a large audience who were treated to some hilarious moments and occasional 'heated' exchanges. It was pleasing to see nine of our junior members taking part, some of whom gave their senior counterparts a run for their money.

          The four finalists, Richard Tebbutt (junior), Rolly Squibbs, Mike Stace and new member, Mike John, were those who completed the greatest number of laps.

          The final was a tense affair with occasional moments of frustration making the scene most entertaining. Running commentary by Rhys Thomas certainly added to the atmosphere, especially during the final - many thanks to Rhys for his contribution. The eventual podium occupiers were: 1. Rolly Squibbs; 2. Mike John; 3. Richard Tebbutt.

          Congratulations to new champion Rolly and to the runners-up. Congratulations also to Jonathan Morris who recorded the fastest lap by a junior, Rolly taking the senior honours.

          An evening such as this does not just happen - it takes patience and a great deal of time to set-up the circuit and the electronic equipment. Many thanks to the Dashfield clan for their efforts, in particular Ed ( who set-up the circuit and marshalled the evening. Thanks also go to Paul Evenden and Anthea Paterson for feeding the ravenous with a superb curry. All in all, a team effort! We look forward to next year's event with eager anticipation.

          Tomorrow (Saturday), commencing at 7 p.m., the H.M. Coastguard and R.N.L.I. Sea Safety Department will be giving a talk on GMDSS/DSC Radio, including hands-on practice. Also included will be advice on lifejackets, flares and general safety equipment.

          If you go boating, you should make an effort to attend. Safety at sea is paramount, irrespective of the type of boat you use. Doors open at 6.30 p.m.

          This annual culinary experience takes place on Saturday, February 12th. Mike Stace and Deanna Morton are again in the hot seat. If last year's evening is anything to go by we are in for a treat - numbers are limited, so please let Mike and Deanna know as soon as possible if you intend to participate.

          You can contact Mike or Deanna on 844484.

• Wednesday, February 16th - Blues Jam session - not to be missed.
  
  
• Friday, February 18th - Greenhill quiz in aid of the Tsunami appeal.
  
  
• Saturday, February 19th - Obligatory darts practice by order of captain Terry Evans.
  
  
• Saturday, February 26th - Terry Evans' great steak evening.
  
  
• Saturday, March 5th - Greenhill Jazz Band (confirmed).
  
  
• Saturday, March 19th - An Italian evening.
  
  

          Other activities are in the pipeline which will include, for example, a quiz with a particular theme - watch this space!

          It's that time of year again - annual subscriptions are now due. Please contact membership secretary, Julia Dashfield, on 844918, for further details. A Membership Subscription Form can be found amongst these pages.

          This is a very friendly and welcoming club which endeavours to involve all members in a variety of activities. If you would like to participate by joining, then now is an ideal time. Contact any members who will be delighted to furnish you with further details. We look forward to meeting you.

          GP14