Pointscore 11.
To see the rigging area filled with TYs was enough to bring an extra element of happiness to our Saturday sailing race. Ten TYs were in the rigging area preparing for the race and for the opportunity to take out as many juniors and seniors and anyone else who wanted to have a go as sailing on a TY as we could. Our PKSC equivalent of Try Sailing. And what a day it was with the sun shining and the wind blowing moderately from the NE at about 15 knots.
Paul Leaudais, Ross Fife and Norm Tomson were our duty crew for todays around the lake Secretary V Presidents course. Thanks guys for the big effort.
In my opinion these events provide us boat owners with opportunities to introduce new people, young and mature, to Trailer Yachts and, to have a bit of a knees up at the end of the day before we go about our busy holiday season activities.
Like many of the TY’s sailing today, Froufrou opted to share the skippering role. If you have not steered before or haven’t steered for some time it can be quite an intimidating responsibility, especially when the wind is up. I learned today that I am a hard task master and have high expectations of my crew. They of course performed with great diligence and determination as is anticipated of high achievers. They did better than their best and I didn’t make it easier for them. In the end I believe they all appreciated the experience and feel a little more confident in their sailing abilities.
I do have one objection about todays activities. And that is not being sold the winning ticket in the raffle, for yet another time. I am not suggesting for a minute that the system is rigged, but I thinks it’s about time that I shared in the raffle basket booty. On a more serious note, these types of money raising activities don’t happen by magic. Most of the raffled goods are donated by our members, (not all of them re-gifted items I am told), and all assembled under the coordination of Glenda Curry. Very generous of them indeed in my opinion. The raffle’s benefit not just the winners as the proceeds allow the club to purchase things like a new set of binoculars and stop watches.
What’s left is to celebrate together at the end of the day and talk about the light stuff that acts as the social glue that bind us together.
I still get a pleasant feeling looking South over the lake in the soft afternoon light, hides all manner of imperfections. Just sitting looking out from the shelter of the clubhouse veranda is rejuvenating. And it’s even better if you have someone else to share it with.
Are we ready to go for the second half of the season?
The Manly Juniors States in January, St Georges Basin February, Marley Point March, and club races to end the sailing year.
I will be transitioning into retirement during the second half of the sailing season but would very much like to encourage as many TYs to turn up for Saturday races as possible. Club racing provides one of the best opportunities to try different things and tune boats and crews in preparation for bigger regattas.
Don’t miss out.
Hope you all have a great holiday season. See you next year.
The End Trev