Iain Percy OBE speaking at the 50th Anniversary Dinner & Prizegiving

Sailing Report – Helen Martin, Commodore

2.30 Saturday afternoon. Normal busy day, apart from lack of wind; universities and schools practising team racing skills; the RYA Optimist SW Zone Squad attempting to make their little boats move in light wind, and several members out on the lake because that’s what we do!

Meanwhile inside, a cheerful and willing band of helpers skilfully patiently dodged soggy sailors to decorate the club and set up tables for the 50th Anniversary Dinner & Prizegiving.

6.30 Saturday evening. What a transformation, definitely worth the effort, thank you everyone.

6.45 onwards “Don’t we scrub up nice”….

7.30. Welcome to Bristol Water Director of Customer Services, Ben Newby and his wife Vicky, and of course to our special guest, Iain Percy OBE.

Then a yummy meal, lots of jolly chatter and banter before Iain Percy gave a fascinating and entertaining presentation, mostly about the America’s Cup from the early days to the high tech present day.

He was happy to answer some great questions and then present the trophies. Afterwards he stayed chatting to anyone and everyone….lots of photographs.

It was a delightful, happy and memorable evening enjoyed by founder members, new members, the young and young at heart.

We are most grateful to Iain for finding time in a hectic schedule (and a new baby at home) to come to Chew. Thank you too, Miles Bradbury for making the contact, BonesyM and the Rule 42 Gybers for the music and everyone who helped before, on the day or afterwards.

This years’s special trophies were awarded to:

  • John Smalley Endeavour Trophy (junior): Quinn Edmonds and Fin Oliver.
  • The Fred Smith Endeavour Trophy (adult): Christi Brasher.
  • President’s Prize: Nick Edmonds (for his organisation, encouragement and inclusive approach towards junior sailors in Optimists, Fevas and 29ers).

Back to sailing. We have hosted SW Feva class association training, including several of our own junior sailors. Wednesdays have been rather quiet with very light winds but there’s always a jolly band of members, at the very least enjoying the view and camaraderie.
Sunday brought another WNW shifty gusty cold breeze making an enjoyable but tough class race day.

Boat Stickers

A reminder from Allen Marsh, our cheerful dinghy park manager: Where is your current boat sticker? It should be visible on your boat!

Gents Changing Room Heating

Some temporary heaters have been set up in the men’s changing rooms to try “to take edge off”. They are on timers – please do not move the heaters or attempt to adjust them. Thank you to Dave Bonstow.