Saundersfoot Sailing Club

SSC PRESS REPORT 27th AUGUST 2010

Talking of spinnakers - its behind you!

This week’s report moves from the sublime to the ridiculous in terms of wind which over the period has ranged from almost totally absent to batten-down-everything excess. Such is the vagary of our sport which depends totally upon the uncontrollable elements! Fortunately we do not have to put to sea and participate only for pleasure.

Sunday’s Racing:

The predicted force 2 did not materialise for last Sunday’s racing and the slight breeze that did exist gradually decreased as the race progressed to the disappointment of the thirteen boats which came to the line. There was again a good turnout of sail training graduates which is very gratifying. The race was for the Evans McDowell cup and the results were: - 1st Nick Berridge (Phantom), 2nd Mark & Debbie Tissiman (Fireball), 3rd Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate), 4th Graham Wellman (Solo).

Advanced Sailing Techniques Course:

The land based session last Saturday concentrated on spinnaker sailing – thanks to Nick Berridge for running this training. It was planned to follow this with a practical session on the water on Tuesday afternoon but this may have been amended to flying lessons if the 30 knot gusts that are predicted at the time of writing, materialise.

Mid Week Sailing Session:

Similar doubts hang over the intended race on Wednesday when winds will be rising dramatically through the day with possible gusts approaching 40 knots – full gale force 8 conditions!

Regatta:

The forecast running up to the Regatta weekend at the time of writing is dominated by gale force winds, poor visibility and rain, which by the time of reading this, everyone no doubt will have experienced first hand! However the forecast for tomorrow (Saturday) is a fresh force 4 and only a speck of rain for the 3pm start so we hope for some good sailing. Conditions for the Round Caldey Race on Sunday look “stimulating” with a strong force 5 and some big “puffs”, so we shall have to wait and see. Conditions on the far side of the island are never to be under-estimated.
Whatever the weather on the water, we have a grand clubhouse for the pork roast to be held in the evening and a most enjoyable event is promised, so do come along.

Future Sailing:

Two races are scheduled for Sunday September 5th starting at 3pm.

Nautical Nip:

I was reading some fascinating stuff relating to weather recently which surely qualifies as a nautical nip! Gabriel Fahrenheit’s scale for measuring temperature must occur to many as being curious for starting at 32 to denote freezing and rising to 112 for boiling. (He was an instrument maker from Holland so maybe this inscrutable approach is the origin of the term Double Dutch!) As we all know Anders Celsius then created a much more logical scale, but did you know that his original proposal was that boiling point should be 0 and freezing point 100. We must all be thankful that this was subsequently reversed!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 20th AUGUST 2010

Sunday’s Racing:

The 10am start to last Sunday’s racing saw very strong and gusty conditions and a big swell. Sadly for our enthusiastic juniors it was wisely deemed non Oppie weather so only six boats ultimately took to the water. Nick Berridge arrived from Tenby in his Phantom to join Alan Lambert and Chris Bannister in their Solos, Tim Harrison in the Laser Radial with Sarah Boorman and Steve Hinksman in Toppers. The “Girls in the Box” set a Pendine, Monkstone, Harbour course giving an excellent beat to start. The first race had everyone in their toe straps and at full stretch at times. Final positions were 1st Nick, 2nd Alan, 3rd Tim, 4th Chris.
The wind direction was maintained but was declining all the while and even with a rapid turn round for the start of the second race, it had fallen away badly before the fleet gained the Pendine mark following the same course as for the first race. The large swell remained resulting in less enjoyable and less stimulating conditions than the first race. Only the Phantom managed two laps, everyone else just the one. Final placings were 1st Nick, 2nd Alan, 3rd Tim, 4th Chris. At the end of the session however everyone seemed happy with a good chat and analysis of the sailing in the dinghy park afterwards.

Future Sailing:

The race this Sunday is for the Evans McDowell cup and starts at 4.30pm.
Next weekend is Saundersfoot Regatta with two races starting at 3pm on the Saturday (registration from 12.30pm) and the briefing for the Round Caldey Race (weather permitting) at 10am on the Sunday with the start at 11am.
Some extra mid week racing is being organised at 6pm on Wednesday 25 August so those on holiday or with the evening to spare, take note and enjoy some fun “no- points” sailing.

Regatta Pork Roast:

There should be a great evening in prospect for the Saturday of the Regatta with a pork roast and a social evening in the club (and outside, weather willing). Everyone is welcome – 7.30pm onwards.

Nautical Nip:

How many different things did you think of that you can do with sails? My list excludes “non-sailing” terms (tear, cut, mend, fold, etc.) but includes the following - hoist, reef, back, shorten, lower, raise, furl, set, make, rig, loose, trim, fill and strike.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 13th AUGUST 2010

Sunday’s Racing:

Two races were run on a pleasant sunny afternoon last Sunday with the breeze increasing to a gentle force 2. There was an excellent turn-out of 14 boats in total, with half the fleet composed of sail trainees from this year which was very good to see. We could have had a separate class race of Toppers as there were seven racing in total. Our Bosun took to the water without an engine for the first time this year – and demonstrated that he had not forgotten how to sail, so he now has points on the board!
Nick Berridge on patrol was also able to provide novices with extra coaching on the water which everyone appreciated.
The results of the two races confirmed the naming of the “Girls on Top” Graduate and also justified Chris spending some time re-tuning his Solo during the week. Rachel meanwhile just continues from strength to strength ! Well done to all the “graduated trainees” who competed!!. The full results were :
Race 1 – first Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate), second Rachel Tudor (Topper), third Chris Bannister (Solo)
Race 2 - first Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate), second Chris Bannister (Solo), third Sarah Boorman (Topper).
By way of a “fly past”, the Tenby offshore lifeboat whizzed past the fleet giving everyone a grand spectacle and a chance to practice their surfing! Overall a good afternoon was enjoyed by all.

Mid Season Series Results:

Out of the twelve races scheduled, three had to be cancelled because of the weather and a total of 18 boats competed during the series with an average of 8 boats per race. Paul Griffiths took the series overall, not missing a single race and only being pushed into second place on one occasion – a great result Paul! Chris Bannister was the near runner-up, also with a pretty consistent record, followed by Peter Bower in third whose results were affected by being prevented from sailing the last four races because of injury. There was a real “ding- dong” battle between Paul Johnson (Solo), Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate) and Alan Lambert (Solo) for fourth, fifth and sixth places with only two points between the three of them.

Future Sailing:

This Sunday’s two races start at 10am.
Next Sunday’s racing (22nd August) is at 4.30pm
Some extra mid week racing is being organised at 6pm on Wednesday 25 August so those on holiday or with the evening to spare, take note and enjoy some fun “no- points” sailing.

Next Social Event:

Don’t miss the pork roast to be provided at 7.30pm on the Saturday of the Regatta (28th August). Everyone welcome.

More Success for Megan:

Megan Boorman was sailing in the Topper Nationals at Pwhelli last week and came 52nd out of 107 in the bronze Fleet and was awarded the Young Pretender Cup (which is nearly as big as she is!) for best Topper sailor under 12. A really excellent achievement – well done Megan!

Newsletter:

A copy of Windward – the Club newsletter has been emailed or posted to all members. If you have not yet had a copy please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or commodore@saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk.

Nautical Nip:

It is amazing how many things you can do with sails! I can think of fourteen, can anyone exceed that? I will give my full list next week just to keep you thinking!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 6th AUGUST 2010

Sail Training Week:

Everyone agreed that the intensive five days training last week was a resounding success with supportive weather and excellent achievements from the novices. Clearly it was enjoyed by all. As a highlight to the general practise and development of sailing skills, the entire group undertook a voyage to Tenby and back on the Wednesday and all faired very well with this expedition. In addition to the main programme, a group of some thirteen Carmarthenshire Scouts also received initiation into sailing on the Tuesday afternoon and hopefully many will now have a taste for the sport and come back for more! Very many thanks to Malcolm Williams, Graham Wellman, Chris Bannister, Paul Johnson, Ian Lupson, Samantha Atwell and William Horton who put in a lot of time and effort to ensure the success of the week.

Junior Helm and Lady Helm Races:

Eleven eager contestants sailed hard for these awards last Saturday. Rachel Tudor prevailed in her Topper to take both awards which were presented on the Saturday evening by Sailing Principal Malcolm Williams. Congratulations also to Hugh Lupson in the Pico , who came a narrow second for the Junior Helm being only 4 seconds behind Rachel, especially as this was his very first race after undertaking the sail training week. Excellent result Hugh! Runner up in the Lady Helm and third overall was Rosie Myers and 4th place in the Junior Helm went to Finlay Harrison.

Hot competition in the junior helm race.

What a Good Evening!

The social evening last Saturday was excellent with a club-full of members. Wendy had excelled herself with a marvellous buffet followed by mouth-watering strawberries and cream - many thanks to all who helped with the catering. Some entertainment was provided at the bar with a frothy contest between barmen and draft beer but it did not seem to affect the drinking pleasures! No other entertainment was needed with the lively conversation amongst all present for the evening.
Malcolm Williams presented some very practical waterproof containers as trophies to sail trainees who had completed the week’s course. Many thanks to The Pound Shop in Saundersfoot who very kindly donated these to the Club.
Overall a really pleasant social evening – an excellent example of first class enjoyable club activity.

Sunday Racing:

A rather languid breeze wafted eleven sailors out into the bay last Sunday for the start of the first of two races. An Amroth, Pendine, Harbour course was set to provide a beat on the last leg; however this was not to be! An eager pack of Solos, Lasers, Fireball, RS Feva, Graduate, Topper, GP14 and Oppie went for the line so enthusiastically that a General Recall was required. A “clean” start was then achieved after adjusting the inner distance mark, with all boats becoming more and more closely bunched as the breeze fell away, so that by the time the Amroth buoy was reached there were more boats than water! The motive power source dropped even more so that four boats retired and the race was finished prematurely at the Pendine mark in the hope of better conditions to come. The results however were refreshing even if the breeze wasn’t, with Finlay Harrison in his Oppie taking first place a really long way ahead of all the higher powered classes after handicap adjustment. Paul Griffiths (Solo) was second, Rachel Tudor (Topper) third and Mark & Debbie Tissiman (Fireball) fourth. It is indeed an excellent reflection on the sport when an Oppie - which is the slowest boat of all the handicap Classes, can achieve poll position ahead of all else – well done Finlay! His achievement was duly recognised with a special presentation after the race by Commodore Trevor Smith. I think that the photo reflects the pleasure of both parties with this result!
Back in the bay, normal service was resumed with a decent force 3 breeze returning to permit a second race which followed a Monkstone, Pendine, Harbour course. Conditions were now good with the Fireball gaining benefit from her spinnaker and some enjoyable reaches. Whilst the fleet was more spread out to reflect the range of performance of the nine classes represented, there were nevertheless some very close contests between individual boats. Most boats completed 3 laps in the improved conditions but after handicap there was only a single second between Rachel’s Topper (5th) and the GP14 of James & Ben Roberts and Tom Eyre (6th). Only 3 seconds separated Tim Harrison (Laser Radial) in 7th place from Mark & Trish Jones who were 8th in the Graduate. A family battle followed with Rosie & Harry Myers coming 9th in the RS Feva beating their parents Eileen & Ian (Laser 2000) by the same very narrow margin of 3 seconds.
First place went to Paul G (Solo), second were Mark & Debbie (Fireball) and third was Alan Lambert (Solo).
Everyone retired to the club afterwards for refreshment and good humoured reminiscences which also coincided with the return of the cruisers of Ray and Dot (Spartacus) and John Miller (Sea Fever) so they were duly regaled with the exploits of the day’s sailing as well!

Finlay Harrison with his special oppie award.

Saturday Training:

The first of the special Advance Sailing Techniques sessions for those involved in Sunday Club racing and those who help with Sail Training is at 2pm tomorrow (Saturday) with the second session at 4.30pm next Tuesday evening.

Saundersfoot Regatta:

Volunteers (sailing and catering) to help with the Regatta to be held on 28 & 29th August would still be welcomed, please contact Chris Bannister (01437 541318), Graham (07890 987825) or Wendy (01834 813324).

Newsletter:

A copy of Windward – the Club newsletter has been emailed or posted to all members. If you have not yet had a copy please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or commodore@saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 30th JULY 2010

Sunday Racing:

A fleet of eight boats took to the water last Sunday in good conditions with a seaward start from the harbour to the Pendine mark, then round the Amroth mark and back to the harbour. Thanks to Graham and Alan in the dories for running the race and providing an excellent reach between Pendine and Amroth to provide exhilarating satisfaction. Final results were; 1st- Dave Plester (Laser); 2nd – Paul Griffiths (Solo); 3rd – Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate); 4th Tim Harrison (Laser).

Sailing Programme:

How the season is rushing by! Our dinghy sailors have now sailed 30 Sunday races with three being cancelled, plus the races of the Interclub meeting and Tenby Regatta. Tomorrow (Saturday) the Lady Helm and Junior Helm races will be sailed starting at 10am and this will complete two thirds of the season!
The Late Season Series then starts this Sunday with two races also starting at 10am.

A Brace of Oppies watching the clouds go by.

Sail Training:

This last week we have been running the intensive training week and a fuller report will follow next week.
An extra series of evening training sessions has been arranged to cover Advance Sailing Techniques for those involved in Sunday Club racing and to all those who help with Sail Training. The programme is as follows:
Saturday 7th August from 1400 hours, Tuesday 10th August from 1630 hours
Saturday 21st August from 1430 hours, Tuesday 24th August from 1630 hours
For more information and to book into these sessions please contact Malcolm Williams on 01994 448383.

Social Events:

Final reminder to all members for the social evening tomorrow (Saturday) at 7.30pm with Wendy’s excellent home coked food and good company.

Saundersfoot Regatta:

Volunteers (sailing and catering) to help with the Regatta to be held on 28 & 29th August are still required, please contact Chris Bannister (01437 541318), Graham (07890 987825) or Wendy (01834 813324).

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 23rd JULY 2010

Royal Marines Challenge:

The two races last Sunday were the first two (out of three) for the Royal Marines Cup and were run in suitably challenging conditions which the Marines would have been proud of.
There was a fresh force 4 swirling round the bay gusting to 5or 6 at times providing some really stiff conditions. Malcolm Williams as OOD decided to start the race at Wiseman’s Bridge with a beat towards the Harbour then around the Pendine mark and back to the start.
Eight boats set out for the start including three juniors – Ben Roberts and Harry and Ben Hinksman - together with a mini fleet of four Solos. After a testing race just three boats made it to the finish to make it a Solo class event, although Ben Roberts in the Oppie almost made it. The placings were 1st Paul Griffiths, 2nd Alan Lambert, and 3rd Paul Johnson.
The second race was again from Wisemans Bridge - although some felt that it would have been safer to stay in the pub and only the three leading Solo’s from the first race decided to continue! The OOD decided to reverse the course, unfortunately Paul J was not told and was feeling really good way out in the lead until he realised that the others were sailing a different course! Only Paul Griffiths finished out of the 3 boats starting with Paul and Alan retiring.
Overall it was very entertaining and a good time was had by all despite the difficult and challenging conditions.

Sunday Racing:

The final race for the Royal Marines Cup has a 5.30pm start this Sunday.

Sail Training:

The intensive training week commences at 2pm on Monday 26th through to Friday 30th July. The Lady Helm and Junior Helm races will follow on Saturday 31st starting at 10am.
A series of evening sessions has been arranged to provide training on Advance Sailing Techniques for those involved in Sunday Club racing and to all those who help with Sail Training. The programme is as follows:
Saturday 7th August from 1400 hours, Tuesday 10th August from 1630 hours
Saturday 21st August from 1430 hours, Tuesday 24th August from 1630 hours
For more information and to book into these sessions please contact Malcolm Williams on 01994 448383.

Wayfarer reefed for sail training last Saturday.

Social Events:

All members are invited to a social evening at 7.30pm on Saturday 31st July after the Junior and Lady Helm races. Wendy’s excellent home made food will be available.
A hog roast is planned for everyone on Saturday 28th August as part of our Regatta weekend. Our last hog roast was one of the best events ever experienced in the club and it is hoped that members will support and enjoy this one just as much.
Volunteers to help with the Regatta (sailing and catering) are still required, please contact Chris Bannister (01437 541318), Graham (07890 987825) or Wendy (01834 813324).

Newsletter:

A copy of Windward – the Club newsletter will be emailed or posted to all members shortly with current news and an urgent request for members’ views on various issues.

News of Members:

News of member’s achievements sometimes reaches us by a pretty circuitous route! An article in the Penarth Mercury reports on Megan Borman’s recent achievement in the Club Youth Racing Circuit at Mumbles when she came 4th in her Topper. Well done Megan and don’t forget the Lady Helm race back home on Saturday 31st July.

Nautical Nip:

I was looking over some ancient history of our club the other day and found some interesting reflections. With all the current stress over costs and finances, it was salutary to note that subscriptions in 1949, the first year of SSC, were a humble five shillings – that’s just 25p in new money!! Club reserves were £11-4s-10d (£11.24p) – that would make current day Treasurers’ eye’s water !!
Sailing arrangements were much simpler too, with a 5 minute gun and a starting flag which was lowered to indicate shorten course. I guess the only thing that has not altered is the satisfaction and enjoyment from sailing which keeps us all going.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 16th JULY 2010

Tenby Regatta:

No sailing at Saundersfoot because of Tenby Regatta last week, but a small contingent of our sailors went “round the corner” to compete in the Round Caldey Race on the Sunday. Ray and Dot in Spartacus and the Griffiths family in Wil Wal Waliog battled it out with the Tenby cruisers against a strong tide and a wind that had shifted westerly to be right on the nose through the sound. A total of ten boats set out but not all made it against the opposing forces! Peter Bower in the Phantom and Paul Griffiths in the Solo competed in the dinghy race coming 4th and 5th respectively out of a fleet of 14 which was very satisfactory.

Sunday Racing:

The first two of the three races for the Royal Marines Cup will be run from 10.30am this Sunday.

Next Club Racing:

On Sunday 25th July the race starts at 5.30pm.

Sail Training:

A series of evening sessions has been arranged to provide training on Advance Sailing Techniques for those involved in Sunday Club racing and to all those who help with Sail Training. The programme with starting times is as follows:
Saturday 7th August from 1400 hours
Tuesday 10th August from 1630 hours
Saturday 21st August from 1430 hours
Tuesday 24th August from 1630 hours
For more information and to book into these sessions please contact Malcolm Williams on 01994 448383.

Social Saturday:

Last week’s report managed to corrupt the date of the next social evening. The social evening is planned for Saturday 31st July after the Junior and Lady Helm races.

Future Events:

A hog roast is planned for everyone on the Saturday of our Regatta weekend – 28-29th August. Our last hog roast was one of the best events ever experienced in the club and it is hoped that members will support and enjoy this one just as much.
Volunteers to help with the Regatta (sailing and catering) are still required, please contact Chris Bannister (01437 541318), Graham (07890 987825) or Wendy (01834 813324).

Nautical Nip:

Portugal is often remembered as Britain’s oldest ally but we do have another reason to be thankful to that Country, as the Azores (Portuguese) are a large semi-permanent centre of high atmospheric pressure which is the usual source of good summer weather in the UK. The Azores consist of nine islands strung out across some 350 miles of the central Atlantic in the so-called “Horse latitudes”. The origins of this name are somewhat bizarre being sometimes attributed to the historical common practice to pay crewmen in advance for their first month's work which was often spent before even boarding the ship, so that for the first month on board, they were difficult to motivate – hence the expression flogging a dead horse. After approximately one month, ships out of the British Isles reached the Horse Latitudes. An alternative origin is from when the Spanish transported horses by ship to their colonies in the West Indies. Ships often became becalmed in this latitude, thus severely prolonging the voyage; the resulting water shortages made it impossible for the crew to keep the horses alive, and they would throw the dead animals overboard.

Coastline in the Azores - just look at that sky!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 9th JULY 2010

Why follow the crowd.

Sail Training:

Whilst the wind was fairly gusty and very changeable last Saturday, a good group of sail trainees sailed out of the harbour and undertook some useful practise round a triangular course. A surprise element of the schedule occurred when a grey seal popped up right next to Graham in the Wayfarer and after mutual scrutiny each continued happily on their way.

Sunday Racing:

Seven hopeful sailors turned up for the racing last Sunday but unfortunately the conditions were un-sailable with a strong blow and some gusts even causing damage across the locality.

Tenby Regatta:

Tenby Regatta starts tomorrow (Saturday) with dinghy racing at noon so no sail training at Saundersfoot. The forecast for Sunday looks hopeful for the Round Caldey race for cruisers at 11.30 and suitable dinghies at 11.45am. There will be no Sunday racing at Saundersfoot therefore.

Next Club Racing:

Next club races are on Sunday 18th July with two races starting at 10.30am.

Sail Training Week:

From Monday 26th to Friday 30th July there is an intensive week’s training to advance competence and hone sailing skills. For those already registered for this week but not yet paid, please settle up with Tina as soon as possible. The focussed training will be followed on the Saturday with the Junior Helm and Lady Helm races so that all the knowledge and abilities can be put to the test.
A social evening with Wendy’s home-made food is planned for the Saturday evening for all club members and it is hoped that there will be a good attendance. Please note in your diaries now – 7.30pm Saturday 30th July..

Nautical Nip:

For most of this month visitors to Milford Haven can enjoy a large number of Galway Hookers down on the Marina! Yes, this is still a family column and no, this is not a reference to a seamier side of nautical activity! A fascinating exhibition in Milford Haven’s Pure Art Gallery depicts the traditional sailing boats of western Ireland’s Galway coast. Galway Hookers were working boats 7-14m in length, sometimes part-decked and used for fishing and as cargo vessels. These craft were both robust and shallow drafted to suit the conditions of the area. They date back at least 200 years and may have even older Arabic or Eastern origins with their distinctive and beautiful sail formation. The rig consisted of a single mast with a main sail and two foresails. Traditionally, the boat is black (being coated in pitch) and the sails are a dark red-brown.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 2nd JULY 2010

Sunday Racing:

The sailing last Sunday was a late sail, which was particularly enjoyable as it left the rest of the day free to enjoy. Would members like more evening sails on the programme next year if tides permit? Views and suggestions are always welcome – emails to secretary@saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk please.
There was a pleasant force 3 south west breeze and the usual group of sailors took to the line on a beautiful evening. Paul Griffiths in the Solo had a good start, a good race and was not seen again! Finlay Harrison sailed his Oppie around the course very well. The Dinghy Captain was the only boat to fall over claiming that he needed to inspect the bottom of his boat every so often. Final results after three laps of a Monkstone, Amroth, Harbour course were:- 1st - Paul Griffiths (Solo), 2nd - The Girls in the Grad (Tonia and Julia Griffiths), 3rd - Chris Bannister (Solo), 4th - Tim Harrison (Laser), 5th Finlay Harrison (Oppie). Paul Johnston was OOD with Martin Andrews on patrol, thanks to them both for their help.

Next Club Racing:

Two races this Sunday starting at 10.30am

Near Future Events:

Tenby Regatta is to be held next weekend (July 10th/11th) so no racing at Saundersfoot. On the Saturday, the dinghy races start at 12 noon. For the Round Caldey race on the Sunday, cruisers will start at 11.30am and qualifying dinghies at 11.45am.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 25th JUNE 2010

Interclub Racing:

Six club members stood out from Saundersfoot and beat their way to the war zone beyond Monkstone for the interclub racing with Tenby last Saturday. After last year’s defeat, (sorry but I just had to get that in somewhere!) Tenby had put up a fast and competitive fleet. Three good races were run with some close duals especially at the front. The overall result gave Tenby a good win with 65 points with Saundersfoot second (OK we were last!) with 100 points. That was however not the end of the competition for our sailors, as due to a wind shift and the turning of the tide, it was a real battle for them to return home. The Saundersfoot side of Monkstone was described as survival conditions and many thanks to Roly Squibbs in yacht Beagle who provided cover and assistance for this wearisome journey back. Many thanks to Tenby who kindly hosted an enjoyable supper back in their club that evening. Overall a good outing providing different competition and further experience.

Sunday Racing:

A single race was sailed last Sunday in a variable and very unpredictable breeze. The start was delayed as the Girls on Top had boat problems and there was no passing AA man! One competitor commented “we’re always waiting for women”, but avoided a yellow card (or is it a black spot for marine infringements?) as the OOD luckily chose not to hear. A Monkstone, Amroth, Harbour course was set and final positions after handicap were: 1st Paul Griffiths (Solo), 2nd Peter Bower (Phantom), 3rd Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate), 4th Rob & Anna Davies (Enterprise), 5th Sarah Borman (Topper), 6th John Lewis (Topper). The second race scheduled was cancelled as the wind had all but died – until the last boat had been towed in that is - when a little breeze sprang up and strengthened during the later afternoon!!

Thanks again to Sailing Captain - Chris Bannister who had his hands full operating the patrol boat and running the race from there.

Next Club Racing:

The club race this Sunday is a 6pm start to match with high water at 5.40pm.

Nautical Nip:

Last week’s poser asking what “arrack” was, brought a phonetic answer that it was the noise gulls made – ingenious, but not correct I am afraid. It is in fact “an Indian term for all ardent liquors” but usually refers to the fermentation product of palm juice (toddy), rice and sugar. (I previously thought that you could only have ardent drinkers, but in this context apparently ardent means burning or fiery drinks!). As far as we know, Graham is not planning to stock this in the bar, but after Tuesday’s budget he may be looking for cheaper alternatives to the traditional booze!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 18th JUNE 2010

A study of light and water.

Sail Training:

The strong wind on Saturday morning last week, abated only a little to a stiff breeze whose gusts tested the 18 beginners who were out on the water for the first time with sail training this year. Everyone got good practise of capsize drill and the quantity of water contained by a capsized Wayfarer astounded those trying to bale it out. However the session was enjoyed by all and such conditions do need to be experienced under watchful supervision to complete the full learning experience for new sailors.
Next session is at 12.30pm on Saturday 26th June as next week we have the Interclub competition against Tenby.

Club Racing:

A modest fun sail substituted for Sunday racing last week with an ISO, a Solo and a GP14.

Interclub competition:

We may be whistling for the wind for tomorrow’s (Saturday) race against Tenby “round the corner” beyond Monkstone. The morning promises only a gently force 2 perhaps improving to force 3 by 4pm when most competitors are likely to have retired for tea! Don’t forget Tenby’s invitation to return to their club after the racing.

Next Club Racing:

Our next two mid season series races start at noon this Sunday.

Cruiser Outing:

Ray Smith set out last weekend in his new boat Spartacus to sail to Dale and found himself almost flying, recording 9.5 knots at one time, which is impressive for a 26 foot boat. It was most exhilarating and got him to his destination well ahead of planned expectations. The weather on the Saturday night was not particularly pleasant at his mooring, so indulging his fancy he turned round and sailed back home again – although this time not at such record speeds. Overall it was a memorable and enjoyable outing.

Nautical Nip:

A true nautical nip this week! The word toddy is often used loosely to refer to almost any drink, although usually with connotations of a warming one mixed with cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg and fortified with spirits. It may also be garnished with fruit. It originates from the sap or juice extracted from East Indian palm and is also therefore called palm wine. Do any of you drinking connoisseurs know what “arrack” is though?

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 11th JUNE 2010

Coppet Week:

Coppet Week last week provided the best weather for holidaying for many years and the conditions for sailors was pretty good, although the racing certainly included its frustrations and challenges. The new arrangements to hold a single 10 o’clock race each day proved a great success this year - whether we can repeat it for future events will however depend upon the timing of the tides. We had no frustrating postponements leaving uncertainty on the sailing front and disruption to the arrangements for the rest of the day for families.

Racing was cancelled on the Wednesday when the forecast indicated very little, if any wind. The wry smile on the face of a few speculators, who promised that a sea breeze would spring up, disappeared together with the last breath of wind soon after the scheduled start time, leaving the race officers feeling vindicated (and relieved!)
This decision was also coloured by the race on the Tuesday which started OK with a reasonable breeze and a large swell, but then the breeze dropped away to nothing which stymied the faster boats who were on their second lap - completely stalled.
The tenacity of the sailors was reflected by the fact that some 45 boats still managed to finish. The penultimate leg of this race was downwind, in the little breeze that there was, to the mark which was nearest the beach, and then a gibe onto a beat to the finish line which was further out to sea. Despite the difficulties of making this beat “away from home” to the finish, very few competitors took the easy option and retired!

Thursday’s forecast was for a decent force 3, going-on 4, and hopes were high for two races back to back to make up for the earlier frustrations. Nature does not however pander to our wants and desires and once again we suffered a very long race indeed with the wind easing away instead of maintaining a good blow. Nobody could have foretold these events so there were no red faces, although there could well have been some red backs with the strength of the sun, which was no doubt enjoyed by the holiday makers for the rest of the day.

It was thus particularly pleasing that on Friday, the last day, two decent races were managed on two different courses in much more satisfactory conditions. The sailing week therefore finished on a high having achieved all six races albeit over a range of very different winds. Off the water, the days had been gorgeous for other holidaying activities and the social programme of entertainment in the clubhouse comprising - quiz, hog roast, BBQ, curry night and general chatter seemed to have all gone off really well with a bustling and cheery crowd every evening.
Prize giving on the Friday night was of course heaving, especially as the top places were too close to call, raising the excitement for the final results which were not released until the evening.

Coppet Fleet assembling from Saundersfoot Beach

General background:

A total of 65 boats entered from 26 different clubs across the country in a vast variety of boats with handicaps ranging from 690 to 1646. It was good to see 16 entries from Saundersfoot “waving the flag for the home team”.
The varying wind conditions did “shuffle the pack” more than usual and whilst the races on Sunday, Monday and Friday did see the ultra fast boats (with handicaps of 1050 or less) dominate the top places, on the Tuesday five of the top eight and on Thursday all of the top eight were boats with higher handicaps. Indeed in race 3, John Taylor came second overall in his Mirror with one of the highest handicaps of all the boats racing (1365). Overall the competition was very close as the week progressed with only a single point between the two leaders with one race to go.

Coppet Week - some fierce competition

Prizes:

As always there were a number of special prizes for crews of different ages from under 10 - Cerys Godwin from Port Dinorwick (Miracle), to over 120 years - Robert and Nicola Cartwright from Blithfield (Fireball).
For prize groupings, the fleet was split into slow handicap (over 1050) and fast handicap (under 1050).
Slow Fleet: Third - Alex & Josh Bale, Spinnaker Club (Scorpion); Second – John Taylor, Bartley Club (Mirror); First – Ian & Ben Fryett, Llangegfedd Club (RS200).
Fast Fleet: Third – Keith McDonald & Andy Brittain, Blifield Club (Fireball); Second – Richard Dee & Chris Gould, Midland Club (Merlin Rocket)
Overall Coppet Week Champion 2010: Gareth Caldwell, Carsington Water Club (Asymmetric Canoe). Gareth previously won Coppet Week 20 years ago in an Osprey.
Full details of all the results can be found at www.saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk.

Thank You:

A big than you was voiced by Commodore Trevor Smith and echoed by Coppet Week Champion Gareth Caldwell to all the club members who had worked so hard to provide an excellent week for all the sailors and their families. Many had worked well beyond “the call of duty” and without such efforts the event would not be possible. It was hoped, and certainly it appeared, that everyone had enjoyed themselves regardless of the final positions achieved and this is indeed the whole purpose of this friendly and sociable occasion.

Club Racing:

After the glories of Coppet Week and all the efforts and hard work involved there were still energies for Club racing last Sunday.
A fine day’s sailing was had by nine boats with a good wind for two races back to back. There was a decent breeze for the first race and then it picked up a little for the second race and was a little unpredictable near the line.
The first three places were the same for both races with Paul Griffiths (Solo) 1st, Peter Bower (Phantom) 2nd and Paul Johnson (Solo) 3rd. All boats finished each race with some very close racing with only five seconds separating Paul and Peter in the first race, and less than four minutes between all the competitors once the times were adjusted.

Thanks to Chris Bannister who stepped in at the last minute as Race Officer and ran the races from his patrol boat and to Finlay Harrison who assisted and was a great help recording and acting as our start flag!

Sail Training:

The first session for Beginners is tomorrow (Saturday) on the water, weather willing, starting at 1pm. Bring suitable clothing.

Social Sail Event for All:

This Sunday (13th) there is the Social Sail for all types of craft and all levels of experience. For a fun evening ending in the clubhouse, please arrive in time for a 5.30pm start.

Tenby Saundersfoot Interclub meeting:

This has been arranged so that the tides allow our members to sail round to Tenby who are hosting this event for an 11am start on Saturday 19th June. Having the recent experience from Coppet Week behind us it is hoped that we can put up a good showing against our nearest rivals this time! They are offering their usual hospitality in their club after the racing.

Future Club Racing:

Next club racing starts at 12 noon on Sunday 20th with two races back to back.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 28th MAY 2010

Sunny Day Racing:

The glorious heat and super summer day last Sunday was of course compensated for by the fact that there was very little wind. However eight boats turned out for the two races and with a last-minute stand in by Trevor Smith to undertake OOD duty, both were completed – just!
The only air movement in the bay was towards Monkstone so he set a simple Monkstone-Harbour “sausage” course. The heat must have got to Peter Bower who got his port mixed up with his starboard on reaching the first windward mark and went round the wrong way. By the time he realised the mistake, it was a long way back and this cost him the race, with Paul Griffiths (Solo) gaining first position, Chris Bannister (trying out a Solo for the first time) second and Peter third.
The wind dropped even lighter for the second race and as one competitor commented when urging his boat to go forward at all “it was real hard work”! Five boats thus retired to the clubhouse with the remaining three, battling it out - at snails pace - with Peter Bower first, Paul Griffiths second and Chris Bannister third.

Coppet Week:

Well – here we are again with Coppet Week starting tomorrow (Saturday) with the Commodore’s reception in the evening and the first race starting at 10am on Sunday.
All helpers please note – there is the all important Safety Briefing for all involved with the racing at 7.30pm in the clubhouse tonight.
For the week ahead, the village will enjoy the usual impressive array of very many different classes of boats filling the bay in the usual colourful manner. The forecast at the time of writing is for the temperatures to drop back markedly, but a westerly airflow giving a light force 3 breeze is expected on the Sunday possibly rising to a force 4 on the Monday which hopefully will allow some good sailing.

RNLI Lifejacket Clinic:

A good few lifejackets were brought to the RNLI clinic outside the club last Saturday. Many thanks to the RNLI staff who provided this free valuable checking.
The first race of Coppet Week is once again the RNLI pennant race, the proceeds from which provide a donation from SSC to the RNLI as one of the ways we try and acknowledge their invaluable activities.

News from Afar:

Some years ago an attractive small girl learnt to sail with our sail training school in Saundersfoot in a club Oppie with the usual spills and mishaps but with a clear indication of talent and determination. Now Lara Cane is in the Beagle Passage near the southernmost tip of South America, teaching Yachtmaster qualifications on a 45 foot sailing vessel carrying 10 passengers - called Pelagic Australis. She plans to sail all over that part of the world which includes Cape Horn, the Falklands, Terra del Fuego and other exotic locations. It is really refreshing to hear such a success story – well done and best wishes to you Lara. Details of her exploits can be found on her blog at http://larassailingadventures.blogspot.com

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 21st MAY 2010

Sunday Racing:

Five boats raced in the last Warm-Up Series race last Sunday in rain under a light and variable wind. Sarah Borman retired in the Laser Radial trying to get to the finish line in no wind with the tide rapidly going out. The results were: 1st - Peter Bower (Phantom), 2nd - Mark & Debbie Tissiman (Fireball), 3rd - Alan Lambert (Solo), 4th - Megan Borman (Topper).
After eleven races in this first Series of the season, the results look very close and there is a real competition on this year. Keep watching this space for the final positions.

Results Correction:

Due to the close racing last week and confusion between laser rigs, the wrong PY (Portsmouth Yardstick handicap) number was used, favouring the Laser of Dave Plester. The figures were re-worked with the correct number putting Paul Griffiths in first place in the second race with Dave dropping back to second. It was always a close run event - initially the calculation gave Dave a 10 second lead which became a 19 second lag behind Paul after the correction.

Racing Fixtures:

The first two races of the Mid Season Series start at 2pm this Sunday

Coppet Week:

Coppet Week starts next week with Registration and Commodore’s Reception on Saturday evening and racing on Sunday 30th through to Friday 4th June. This year, as already advertised, all the six Coppet Week races will start at 10am. There is a really great social programme to support the sailing and we look forward to the usual clubhouse full of people enjoying themselves. Full details on the website - www.saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk.

Sailing Safety Sessions:

Don’t miss the safety check on equipment tomorrow (Saturday) on the harbour by the clubhouse. This is open to all – members and non members alike so make sure you bring your lifejackets and any queries you may have for the experts. The RNLI are also providing a light-hearted evening session at 7pm in the club on safety for all boaters – again all welcome.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 14th MAY 2010

CYRCS:

Four Oppies, seven Toppers and three Laser Radials made up a fleet of fourteen boats competing in three classes in last Saturday’s Club Youth Racing Circuit meeting. They were presented with some challenging conditions with a blustery force 4 to 5 for this their first competition of the season. A trapezoid course was laid with different classes undertaking different routes with the aim to get all boats finishing together. As a result of the conditions, the start was delayed until after lunch so that competitors went to execute their skills on a full stomach. Three races were completed by the majority of the boats and despite the rather raw and demanding conditions everyone seemed to enjoy themselves. Thanks to all helpers on rescue and other tasks and to Malcolm, Katherine and Norman on the launch Liberty which sailed round from Neyland to act as Committee Boat for the occasion.

Curious manoevres on a Topper rounding the mark!

Sunday Racing:

Two races were run last Sunday with a turnout of 13 boats despite the gusty breeze offering a short choppy sea state which was quite hard to handle especially for the less experienced novices. The rare sight of an Oppie capsizing resulted from these conditions and four boats indeed retired and were towed back in by the second patrol boat. Paul Griffiths (Solo) took the honours followed by David Pleister (Laser) second with Megan Borman (Topper) third and Tonia & Julia Griffiths (Graduate) fourth – the ladies having given the men a very competitive race.
The deck was re-shuffled for the second race with David Pleister crossing the line just 10 seconds ahead of Paul Griffiths, with The Girls On Top gaining third and Megan fourth.
Many thanks for the sterling efforts of Andrew Humphries and Graham Wellman who had to work hard on patrol, also to Alan Lambert and Bodil Humphries in the box who ran two good races despite a novelty stop watch!

Racing Fixtures:

The last race of the Warm-Up Series this Sunday is for early birds with a 9am start.
Next week - Sunday 23rd the first two races of the Mid Season Series start at 2pm.

Sailors – Your Safety may be at Risk:

Members and non members who own a lifejacket are all invited to have them officially tested for safety by the Tenby RNLI Safety Team on Saturday 22nd between 11am and 4pm outside the club in Saundersfoot Harbour. (Note the revised time). The Sea Safety team will also be able to offer advice on distress flares, VHF radios and other safety equipment.
There will also be an evening talk on safety at 7pm that evening in the club. This light-hearted presentation aims to bring home the importance of not just maintaining your lifejackets correctly but also correctly wearing them. Don’t miss this important opportunity to ensure your safety equipment is up to the task – previous experience has found that a high proportion of life jackets tested have some fault. All are welcome to the club for this event.

Powerboat Training:

Powerboat courses are still on offer this month contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or Tina on 01834 812383.

Nautical Nips:

Last week’s explanation of tacking asked what the opposite of tacking was – the answer is “wearing”. Does anyone know the origin of this?
On a more topical note, the RYA has recently flagged up a Dept of Transport report into the financing of the lighthouses and other aids to navigation around our coasts. This was instigated after a deficit of some £24.5m last year for the provision of these vital services. Having been funded by commercial shipping in the past, all funding sources are being considered including recreational boaters. This is an investigative exercise at present but in the current tight economic climate, new sources of funding might well be sought. Full consultation has been promised by Government before any change in policy is implemented.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 7th MAY 2010

Sunday Racing:

Race number 8 of the early season “Warm-Up” Series was again blessed with nearly ideal conditions. The early forecasts for last Sunday suggested a good chance of the race being called off, but in the event a strong, but fairly regular force 4 easterly breeze, coupled with mainly sunny conditions provided some excellent racing. Eight boats beat out of the harbour to a so-called “Sewer” start which sounds somewhat unpleasant but merely means that the starting line is behind the harbour wall towards Glen Beach. This was used in order to provide a good “beat” for the first leg of the course which followed clockwise round the Amroth, Pendine and Harbour marks. (A “beat” is sailing towards the direction of the wind by zigzagging across the wind –tacking - and this provides good competition as it requires considerable sailing skill.) The minor logistical problems of the competitors not being able to hear the hooter – because it was the other side of the starter’s box on the harbour wall, nor see much of the flags - because they were blowing sideways did not prevent all the boats from making an orderly and efficient start!
With a wide range of handicaps, the fleet was soon spread well out round the course with the fastest boats (Phantom, Solo and Laser) completing three laps whilst the plucky tiny Oppie did just the one. All finished with smiles on their faces despite the chilly wind , with Peter Bower (Phantom) again claiming first position, Keith Jones (Solo) coming second and Alan Lambert (Laser) third.
Whilst the Topper of Will Horton finished over 7 minutes behind the Enterprise of Rob and Anna Davies, after handicap there was less than half a second between them after some 50 minutes of racing! After a recount to ensure the arithmetic was correct, Will made 4th place and Rob & Anna 5th.

Fun Sail:

A small contingent participated in the Fun Sail last Bank Holiday Monday which involved a gentle jaunt around the bay as the planned trip to Tenby was too much threatened by the good force 4 wind which looked as if it might increase and cancel out the aim of fun sailing. Ben Hinksman performed an excellent capsize in the harbour mouth (for max spectator entertainment) but everyone enjoyed the outing in the sun which made up for the cold wind.

CYRCS:

The first Youth Racing Circuit of the season is to be held tomorrow (Saturday) when junior sailors from many South Wales Clubs are expected. We hope that a good number of our own budding youngsters will enter. Registration is at 9.30am but the weather outlook is a little challenging so racing is likely to start after midday in view of the forecast. There will be the usual three classes for Toppers, Optimists and an open Class for other boats.

Racing this weekend:

There are two races this Sunday with a 3pm start.

Future Events:

Racing next week – on Sunday 16th May there will be a single race with a 9am start.

Do you Own a Lifejacket?

Members and non members who own a lifejacket are all invited to have them officially tested for safety by the Tenby RNLI Safety Officer on Saturday 22nd between 1 and 4pm. There will also be an evening talk on safety at 7pm that evening. Don’t miss this excellent opportunity to ensure your lifejacket is fully operational – previous experience has found that a high proportion of this life protecting kit is faulty.
Powerboat courses are still on offer this month contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or Tina on 01834 812383.

Coppet Week:

We are moving ever rapidly towards Coppet Week (Sunday 30th May to Friday 4th June). The programme is looking most appealing- there are the usual six races -one each day, all starting at 10am which should help competitors plan other holiday activities during the day. For the evenings there is a great programme of entertainment with BBQ, curry and pork roast embellishing a quiz night, some gentle jazz and other live music including, blues, folk, Irish jigs and whatever you desire from three local groups.
This Will be The Week To be Wemembered. (apologies to David Frost of TW3 and the Oxford dictionary of spelling!).
Any offers of help are still welcome - please contact Graham (01994 448346 or 07890 987825) for the water side or Wendy (01834 813324) for the clubhouse side – many thanks.

Nautical Nips:

The term “tacking” is used in the racing report above. The word derives from the name of the rope that was used to secure the lower corner of the sails of square rigged boats when the wind was coming obliquely across them. As this rope was tightened (hauled in) the boat would sail closer into the wind – hence the term “close-hauled”. The action of tacking is achieved by turning the boat across the wind rapidly so that the fore or headsails catch the wind from the other side. What is the opposite of this action called?

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 30th APRIL 2010

Sunday Racing:

A somewhat flukey force 3-4 gusty wind offered a challenge for the eight boats turning out for our two races last Sunday. The fleet included four Toppers and one Oppie – excellent to have such a good number of novices competing in the Club races and having “a go” in conditions that tested even the experienced sailors. Both the Phantom and the Grad experienced some “wet bottoms” from some close encounters with near capsizes! A Monkstone, Pendine, Harbour course was set and 3 laps duly completed by the leading boats with Peter Bower (Phantom) first, Alan Lambert (Solo) second and Will Horton (Topper) a very creditable third being only 1 minute behind the leading boat after handicap adjustment.
The same course resulted in the same positions for the second race with a second Topper sailed by Rachel Tudor coming in fourth and the Grad retiring.

Sail Training:

Improver trainees were out in seven boats with a nice force 2-3 wind last Saturday which allowed a number of practice races over a short course to be undertaken. This was great experience to bolster experience and confidence with a view to joining the Sunday club racing and was enjoyed by all participants.

Racing this weekend:

This Sunday’s race for the Lloyd Evans Trophy starts at 9.30am.

CYRCS:

The first Youth Racing Circuit of the season is to be held at Saundersfoot on Saturday 8th May when all South Wales youth sailors are invited. We hope that a good number of our own budding youngsters will enter. Registration is at 9.30am with racing starting at 11am interspersed with lunch in the clubhouse and prize giving at the end of the afternoon. There will be the usual three classes for Toppers, Optimists and an open Class for other boats.

Future Events:

Racing next week - Sunday 9th May – two races with a 3pm start.

Powerboat Training:

Trevor is running powerboat courses during April and May for those interested - please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or Tina on 01834 812383.

Coppet Week:

We are still welcoming help for this our biggest event of the year which is to be held from Sunday 30th May to Friday 4th June. If you have not yet been contacted with a specific request please telephone Graham (01994 448346 or 07890 987825) to offer help for the water side or Wendy (01834 813324) to offer help for the clubhouse side – many thanks.

Nautical Nips:

Most people are aware of the huge market for distinctive car number plates, but it appears that there may be developing possibilities for sailing dinghies too!! It was recently reported that Optimist Sail Number 6000 has just been sold for £1550 in a charity online auction. This was for a worthy cause, but I wonder if it will start a trend for the collection of spectacular numbers or even numbers which are very hard for OOD’s to distinguish when they are over the line at the start!!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 23rd APRIL 2010

Sunday Racing:

Last Sunday it was very much a case of “will she, won’t she” in terms of whether there was going to be any wind for sailing. In the event, nine boats made their way slowly to the start in gentle undemanding lightish airs which expanded to a force 2 breeze at times. Two Toppers and the Oppie retired before the start leaving six boats to meander around a single lap with little adrenalin, panic or urgency. Results were: 1st Peter Bower (Phantom), 2nd Paul Johnson (Solo), 3rd Dave (Laser), 4th Alan Lambert (Solo).

Racing this weekend:

This Sunday there are two races with a start at 3pm.

Future Events:

Racing next week - Sunday 2nd May with a 9.30am start.

Powerboat Training:

Trevor will be running powerboat courses during April and May for those interested - please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or Tina on 01834 812383.

Coppet Week:

More help is always welcome for this our biggest event of the year being held from Sunday 30th May to Friday 4th June. If you have not yet been contacted with a specific request please telephone Graham (07890 987825) to offer help for the water side or Wendy (01834 813324) to offer help for the clubhouse side – many thanks.

Nautical Nips:

Last week we were in Berkshire alongside the Thames and observed some very posh boat clubs with plutocratic boathouses but very little water to sail in! Narrow river reaches do, I suppose, at least ensure that all members can tack very efficiently but must be very frustrating at times. We also revisited the Avon and Kennet canal which we traversed from end to end some years ago and reminded ourselves of a different water craft to SSC dinghy sea sailing. An indulgent and dedicated father was taking his daughter on a day out on a narrow boat to celebrate her sixteenth birthday with a large pack of friends. The father was on the stern in control of the tiller and engine whilst the large heap of glamorous girls lay on the foredeck in control of audio equipment and lock operation. In fairness they managed very well but it was potentially a Giles cartoon situation!!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 16th APRIL 2010

Sunday Racing:

Our second race outing of the season was a real balmy Sunday with light winds and beautiful sunshine. Our Sailing Captain commented that wearing a dry suit on the day was a little like “boil in the bag” (marinated mariner perhaps?) but no one complained as it was such a lovely afternoon. Seven boats including two Toppers turned out and after a pretty relaxed start when everyone seemed “line-shy”, there was a nice breeze to provide a good first leg out to the Monkstone mark. The wind then dropped significantly giving a slow run to Amroth with a gentle return to a harbour finish after only the one lap.
Paul Griffiths (Solo) was first, Tonia and Julia Griffiths (Graduate) came second and Rob Jones and his partner came third in their first outing with the Club in their Enterprise - always a pleasure to see these blue sails in the fleet.
The weather and the spectacle of boats in the bay produced a considerable number of visitors to the Race Officer’s Box on the harbour wall and the OODs Peter & Wendy Bower felt that they were virtually running a Race Officer Training course with all the questions and interest being shown!
A fickle wind picked up to encourage the start of a second race but quickly died to nothing leaving a drifting fleet making no headway to the finish line even though the course was altered to bring the line nearer to the boats! The race was ultimately abandoned.

Racing this weekend:

A 9.30am morning start for racing this Sunday with a single race for the UDT trophy.

Sail Training for Improvers:

Also an early start at 9am for Improvers in sail training tomorrow (Saturday). Anyone interested who has not yet booked in contact Tina 01834 812383 or 07813 472399.

Powerboat Training:

Trevor will be running powerboat courses during April and May for those interested - please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or Tina on 01834 812383.

Future Events:

Racing next week - Sunday 25th April involves two races with a start at 3pm.

Nautical Nips:

The recent run of beautiful spring weather has caused stirrings in the cruiser park. I am mischievously reminded of the opening lines of a Tennyson poem -
Below the thunders of the upper deep,
Far, far beneath in the abysmal sea,
His ancient, dreamless, uninvaded sleep
The Kraken sleepeth….
This is an unfair allusion to all our big brothers in cruisers and I hope that conditions will give more encouragement for further voyages this year than in recent “summers”. We also hope to see them in force for the Social Sail to Monkstone on 13th June possibly sailing round Caldey as a less direct route to get there.
Cruiser Hurley Bird’s skipper, Ray Smith, was far from “beneath the abysmal sea” last weekend and provided great spectator interest ascending into the clear blue sky using some ingenious climbing safety kit to repair his mast head equipment right outside the clubhouse windows.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 9th APRIL 2010

The New Season:

The new season has started really well with a full clubhouse of members enjoying the Fitting Out Supper. Following the egg hunt in the cruiser park, under mild sunny conditions after all the rain, and then Oppie racing in the club for younger members (but with considerable participation and enthusiasm from “younger members of a more advanced age”!), everyone tucked in to Wendy et al’s fabulous buffet. The Commodore warmly welcomed everyone, highlighted the many activities planned for the year and asked for involvement from members. The evening was enhanced after the Commodore’s speech by a presentation of a cake, card and engraved SSC crystal glass to Trevor Smith to celebrate his 80th.

Trevor Smith to celebrating his 80th.

Fitting Out Supper.

First Racing:

Continuing the excellent start, conditions for the first racing of the season last Sunday were good, with lots of sunshine and a fresh north westerly wind - force 4 gusting 5 -which certainly was somewhat chilly but generally provided excellent sailing. Typically for the first race of the season a few maintenance problems arose but nothing dire. Ten boats launched but Alistair Davies retired from the first race and Peter Bower from the second, but not before some entertaining aquabatics for the benefit of onlookers - although I guess pretty cold for him!
There were some fascinating statistics from these races with Chris Bannister (sailing single handed in his Magno) completing the two races in identical times, down to the second (49 minutes 34 seconds)! In the first race Mark and Debbie’s Fireball was only 2 seconds behind Peter Bower’s Phantom after 45 minutes, whilst in the second race only a single second separated first and second place after a race time of some 50 minutes!
Results after handicap were: Race One, 1st David Plester (Laser), 2nd Paul Griffiths (Solo), 3rd Peter Bower (Phantom), 4th Mark & Debbie Tissiman (Fireball).
Race Two, 1st Paul Griffiths, 2nd David Plester, 3rd Alan Lambert (Solo), 4th Mark & Debbie.
It was particularly pleasing to see the participation of the Toppers of Megan Borman and Will Horton in this early season racing.

First racing of the season.

Social Sail becomes Anti-Social Gale:

Not everything can be perfect so soon in the season and the Social Sail planned for last Monday had to be cancelled due to high wind. I believe that the Shipping Forecast on the Sunday evening predicted gales over the following 24 hours for almost all the sea areas around the British Isles, so we were not alone.

Sail Training for Improvers:

There are still some places available on the training course for Improvers. Next session is 12.30 Saturday 10th April. Beginners training starts in June but please apply as soon as possible. Please contact Tina 01834 812383 for more information.

Powerboat Training:

Trevor will be running powerboat courses during April and May for those interested - please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or Tina on 01834 812383.

Next Sailing Event:

This Sunday’s racing starts at 3.30pm with two further races to complete the four race Daffodil Trophy.

Future Events:

The race next Sunday 18th April starts at 9.30am.

Nautical Nips:

Following last weeks theme of “swinging the lead” to measure the depth of water under a boat, it seems logical to consider the depth of a boat in the water. This captured the interest of 19th-century English politician Samuel Plimsoll who first suggested the marking of a loading line on the hull of merchant ships. The Plimsoll Line is now adopted as the National Load Line to indicate the legal limit to which a ship may be loaded. It is depicted by a circle with a horizontal line through it but the markings are refined to make allowance for the salinity and the temperature, both of which affect the density of the water and therefore affect the buoyancy and possible loading depth of a vessel.
Next time you have the chance to look at a merchant vessel look for these markings next to the actual Plimsoll Line amidships at the waterline: TF = tropical fresh water, F = fresh water, T = tropical salt water, S = salt water in summer, W = salt water in winter, WNH = winter in North Atlantic.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 2nd APRIL 2010

Fitting Out Supper:

Starting with the egg hunt round the harbour and then games for the families whom we hope will be attending en masse, the Fitting Out Supper is at 7pm tomorrow (Saturday). It was suggested that no eggs could be eaten until Easter Day but it wasn’t felt that this would be enforceable!!
We hope the club will be buzzing with members enjoying good food and drink and pleasant company. See you there.

First Racing:

The first two races of the Warm-Up Series start at 10am this Sunday. Let’s hope the weather does not conflict with the series name and that some good sailing is enjoyed. on this first outing of the season. The results go towards the Daffodil Trophy which is appropriately named this year with yellow blooms now evident everywhere, having appeared around a month later than normal.

Social Sail:

The first social sail is scheduled for Easter Bank Holiday Monday at 10am. This is for anyone to just come and enjoy some pleasurable sailing with a social meet-up afterwards in the Club. No racing, no points, no prizes but just some light hearted practice and fun. Let’s hope the sun shines and completes the package!

Sail Training for Improvers:

Training starts at 12.30pm next Saturday 10th April for improvers. Please contact Tina 01834 812383 for more information.

Next Sailing Event:

The third and fourth races for the Daffodil Trophy start at 3.30pm on Sunday 11th April.

Friday Nights:

The club continues to be open every Friday night with a bar rota to enable those who enjoy a socialize to spend a pleasant evening in the Club. Do come along and join us.

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. For any queries on membership please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk,

Nautical Nips:

You are probably all aware of the expression “swinging the lead” which has been somewhat corrupted to mean avoiding work or pretending to be ill, but originated (before electronic depth sounders) from measuring depths under the boat by dropping a line to the bottom. It was probably quite a skilled job to throw the lead line sufficiently, but not too far ahead, so that it was nearly vertical as it was directly opposite the thrower. To help rapid measurement, different markers were used for different depth on the line. Two fathoms were marked by two strips of leather tied to the line, three fathoms by three strips, five and fifteen fathoms by a white duck tie, seven and seventeen fathoms by red bunting, ten fathoms by a leather washer, thirteen fathoms by blue serge and twenty fathoms by two knots. I do not know whether these were universal markers or if each boat and crew made up their own. Any knowledge on this out there?

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 26th MARCH 2010

Big Screen Rugby:

I think we were all cheered up by Wales’ final game last Saturday. Even the Italians should feel gratified that their side played well and it was a much better game to watch than many earlier ones. So we can now return to our own sport of sailing with just one last reference to the Six Nations and that is to thank Wendy for her most excellent provision of refreshments throughout the whole series. Even when she was away she ensured there were still great victuals for the supporters.

Race Officer Training:

Hopefully those of you who might be able to help with this requirement have been contacted and are ready for a 2.30pm start tomorrow (Saturday). If you have not had a direct appeal to join this training do please just come along. As you will see from the Commodore’s recent letter – we need your support.

Working Party:

A last reminder for the working party to meet at 10am this Sunday to help get ready for the new season which is now looming.

Commodore Comes of Age!

Congratulations to Trevor our ageless Commodore who claims he will be 80 next Monday on the 29th! He confirms that he will not be actively dinghy sailing this year (which may be a relief to those who have been frustrated by experience beating youth in the past) but will still be cruising when possible and ever active with power boat training and doing his bit (and more) with patrol boat duties and running races.

Fitting Out Supper:

To encourage the youth (of any age!) there will be an egg hunt and games before the rest of the proceedings – with PRIZES - so do come along and support this major event in the Club calendar. The Fitting Out Supper is at 7pm on Saturday 3rd April - note the earlier time to allow for egg hunting. Wendy is preparing one of her great buffets and the bar will be ready and waiting.

First Racing:

The first racing of the season, races 1 & 2 for the Daffodil Trophy are next Sunday (after the Fitting Out Supper on the Saturday) starting at 10am. This will see who has kept fit over winter and who has properly prepared their boat in readiness!

Social Sail:

The first social sail is scheduled for the Easter Bank Holiday Monday at 10am. This is for anyone to just come and enjoy some pleasurable sailing with a social meet-up afterwards in the Club. No racing, no points, no prizes but just some light hearted practice and fun. Let’s hope the sun shines and completes the package!

Nautical Nips:

We went over the SS Great Britain in Bristol Docks the other day having previously visited when they were just starting renovations ages ago. They have done a superb job and it is really worthwhile visiting if you are in that part of the world. There are so many things of interest – we couldn’t help noticing that all the bunks were all only about 5’6” long and 2’ wide, but the first class were all embellished with curtains, cushions and carvings whereas steerage were just plain wood!
It also brings home the brilliance of Brunel who not only built this as the first iron clad boat but also as the largest boat in the world and developed the largest steam engine in the world to power it. The iron plates were thicker nearer the keel than higher up the topsides, which is reasonably logical, but how did he possibly know just how thick they had to be for such a totally novel design? He also discarded the use of paddles in favour of a huge three bladed propeller which was a completely new and relatively untried engineering innovation at the time.
Amazingly, later in the boats life, finance displaced vision, and her engine was removed and she was fitted with sails as it had become too costly to run her on coal!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 19th MARCH 2010

Big Screen Rugby:

Well this is IT !!! the last chance for Wales to exonerate themselves after the lacklustre performance against Ireland. Tomorrow (Saturday) Wales play Italy at home at 2.30pm and the usual refreshments and cheer will be available at the Club – so see you there.

Race Officer Assistants Ahoy!

An ongoing reminder to all of you who indicated that you could help with dinghy sailing on your application form, to attend the Race Officer training session on Saturday 27th March. This will be an afternoon session starting at 2.30pm.
The preparation of this year’s rota of duties to run the club races has been very difficult – we must have new faces to assist with race management, please come on 27th if you can. Please contact Chris on 01437 541318 or Trevor on 01834 811235.

Working Party:

All welcome to help with preparations for the new season at 10am on Sunday 28th March. Any skill is acceptable or even just enthusiasm!

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. For any queries on membership please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk,

Nautical Nips:

Racing between different classes of boats depends upon the Portsmouth Yardstick system developed by the RYA in the 1950s. Every class is given a Portsmouth Number (PN) which is used to adjust the actual race time to determine the final placing in a race. A “fast” boat with a PN of say 800 having sailed a race in 45 minutes will have an adjusted time of 56.25 minutes (45 x 1000 divided by 800) and will thus be beaten by a “slow” boat with a PN of say 1200 which sails the same race in 60 minutes which when adjusted = 50 minutes (60 x 1000 divided by 1200).

For the first time this year, information submitted by clubs via the RYA website, has enabled more confident and accurate amendments to the Portsmouth Number list to be made. The RYA claims that this has allowed handicaps to be adjusted more aggressively and with far greater confidence. This has led to some big adjustments, for example, the International 14 has moved down 10 points to 840 and the Phantom has moved down 8 points to 1035.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 12th MARCH 2010

Big Screen Rugby:

My report on the Wales France game last week was clearly affected by my disappointment with the result! as it referred to Wales Ireland which of course is the big one coming up tomorrow (Saturday). The game will be suitably garnished with the products of the bar and Wendy’s home-made broth. Hope to see you in the club for the 2.30pm start. The Scotland England match follows at 5pm.

Future fixtures:

Next week Wales play Italy at home at 2.30pm on the Saturday (20th). All are welcome to enjoy this last match in the pleasant atmosphere of the club. Refreshment will be available. The other matches that day are Ireland Scotland at 5pm and France England at 8.45pm.

Rules of Racing:

Tenby SC is holding a light hearted evening updating on the current rules of racing for dinghy sailors at 7.30 for 8pm tomorrow (Saturday). It will take the form of a quiz so should be enjoyable and instructive. They have kindly opened the event to SSC members so why not go along after the rugby.

Race Officer Assistants Ahoy!:

Another reminder to all of you who indicated that you could help with dinghy sailing on your application form, to attend the Race Officer training session on Saturday 27th March starting at 2.30pm
The preparation of this year’s rota of duties to run the club races has been very difficult – we must have new faces to assist with race management, please come on 27th if you can. Please contact Chris on 01437 541318 or Trevor on 01834 811235.

Working Party:

All welcome to help with preparations for the new season at 10am on Sunday 28th March. Any skill is acceptable or even just enthusiasm!

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. For any queries on membership please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk,

Nautical Nips:

One of the favourite destinations for our cruiser sailors – Lundy Island – has just been designated as the UK’s first Maritime Conservation Zone. This follows on from the island’s designation as a Marine Nature Reserve and recognises the very special natural status of this area. Situated only some 32 miles away across the Bristol Channel this is a 6-7 hour voyage from Saundersfoot with anchorage available at all states of the tide and safe in winds from WSW to NW. Apart from the marine and island ecology there is also a pub, a castle and accommodation for those wishing to stay.
A remarkable combination of conditions two weeks ago (low tide, exceptionally clear visibility and sunny patches) resulted in the island appearing incredibly prominent on our southern horizon. From the Ridgeway above Manorbier the island looked as close as Caldey and even the Bull Point Lighthouse on the north Devon coast near Woolacombe north of Bideford could be clearly seen by the naked eye.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 5th MARCH 2010

Bowling:

Time for arm exercises ready for the bowling tomorrow (Saturday) - meeting at Canaston Bowl at 5.45pm. Back to the club afterwards for eating and drinking exercises involving Wendy and Jackie’s excellent home made supper and drinks together with prize giving.

Big Screen Rugby:

An elite gathering watched the Wales Ireland game in the club last week. Those of you who had tickets to the match itself missed a really excellent meal provided by Wendy – many thanks again.
Ireland play Wales in Dublin at 2.30pm next Saturday 13 March and Wendy’s super soup will be available to help to fortify supporters and all are welcome to enjoy this important game in the pleasant atmosphere of the club.

Future fixtures:

Wales play Italy at home at 2.30pm on Saturday 20th March. This will again be shown in the club with home made nosh available.

Race Officer Training:

Another reminder to all of you who indicated that you could help with dinghy sailing on your application form to attend the Race Officer training session planned for Saturday 27th March. This will probably be an afternoon session starting 2.30pm but will confirm later.
We really need members to attend so that we have a larger group of people to help run the club racing and other sailing events - which are so important to club funds and which keep membership fees so modest. The preparation of this years rota of duties to run the club races has been very difficult – we must have new faces to assist with race management, please come on 27th if you can.

Prepare for the New Season:

Everyone is also invited to join the working party to help get everything ready for the new season at 10am on Sunday 28th March. The extended wintry weather makes it incredible that we plan to be sailing again on 4th April which is only four weeks away.

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. For any queries on membership please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk,

Nautical Nips:

The annual RYA Volvo Dinghy Show is being staged at Alexandra Palace this weekend (Saturday 6th 10-6pm & Sunday 7th 10-5pm). There is always lots to see and enjoy at this event with boats, equipment, services and other tit bits. There are also many interesting and instructive demonstrations and coaching sessions, this year including - basic rig tuning, tips on sailing upwind and even one on posture and hiking out!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 26th FEBRUARY 2010

Big Screen Rugby:

The Wales France match will be shown in the club at 8pm tonight (Friday). Wendy will be providing her excellent cuisine before the match so no need to get a meal at home, just come along and enjoy the whole evening. Everybody welcome.
This will be followed tomorrow (Saturday) by the Italy Scotland match at 2.30pm and England Ireland at 4pm. The bar will again be open for refreshment.

Future fixtures:

Ireland play Wales in Dublin at 2.30pm on Saturday 13 March and Wales play Italy at home at 2.30pm on Saturday 20th March.
Wendy’s super soup will help to lubricate the vocal support and all are welcome to enjoy these games in the club.

Bowling:

Bowling at Canaston Bowl is booked for 6-7pm on Saturday 6th March with a meal back at the club afterwards. Please arrive at Canaston by 5.45pm. We need to know numbers so please book with Wendy on 01834 813324.

Flower Show:

A trip to the renowned Flower Show in Bute Park Cardiff is being arranged for those interested on Saturday 14th April. Coach departs Saundersfoot at 8am and there will be opportunity to get into the centre of Cardiff as well as the flower Show during the day. Cost to include bus and flower show is £21.
In order to reserve places on the coach please telephone Wendy on 01834 813324. She needs to know by next Thursday - 4th March please.

Sail Training:

For information about sail training please contact Tina on her new mobile number 07813 472399

Membership Renewal
Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. For any queries on membership please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk,

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 19th FEBRUARY 2010

Big Screen Rugby:

Scotland deserved their prospective win at 70 minutes but what a finale from Wales right at the end of the match last Saturday. The whole club erupted as the last try was scored. The euphoria even woke up one member who had slept blissfully through all the earlier play – perhaps she will be more interested in rugby when she is two! Wendy’s super soup was a sell-out and everyone (no Scotsmen were present) went home having spent a great afternoon.
More opportunities to enjoy the benefits of the club will be next week when Wales play France at 8pm on Friday (26th) followed on the Saturday with Italy Scotland at 2.30pm and England Ireland at 4pm.

The New Season Beckons:

The traditional start of the new season is the Fitting Out Supper and this will be held on Saturday 3rd April and we hope that the club will be full to bursting that night. Details of the season’s programme are on the website - www.saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk.

Race Officer Transfusion:

New blood is needed - but pleasure not pain is on offer! We need more members to help run races so please consider joining the course for Race Officers on Saturday 27th March. No previous experience necessary. Please contact Chris on 01437 541318 or Malcolm on 01994 448383 or by email – details on the website.

Sail Training:

Correction to last week’s information on dinghy training - Beginners training starts with an on-shore session on 5th June followed by 5 sessions “on the water” – weather permitting. Contact Tina for more information on 01834 812383 or 07979 893344.

Darts Withdrawn:

The darts friendly against Tenby SC planned for 26th February has had to be cancelled – maybe they heard about our playing skills!! For next winter it would be good to establish a darts team to play on a regular basis (and develop our skills).

Bowling:

It is hoped to reinstate the postponed bowling event followed by food back at the club on Saturday 6th March so please make a note in your diary and let Wendy (01834 813324) know if you would like to come.

Friday Nights:

The club remains open every Friday night from 8pm and members who do not normally join this gathering are warmly invited for a drink or two and to exchange some yarns with the old salts who regularly enjoy this evening at the club.

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. Trevor has held back renewal documents so that other information about club activities can be distributed at the same time, so don’t worry if you have not had confirmation back as quickly as you were expecting. For any queries on membership please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk,

Nautical Nips:

The poser last week asked about different square rigged sails. On a “square-rigger”, the many sails had names which indicated their vertical position on the mast. The lowest square sail was the course, the next sail up the mast was called the topsail, the next the topgallant sail. Some vessels shipped a fourth sail called the royal, above the other three. Sometimes a vessel might put out studding sails which would be fixed outboard of these sails along the yards. You can see from this why we prefer Bermudian rigs nowadays. Instructing novices to rig Topper sails is quite enough!

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 12th FEBRUARY 2010

Sail Training:

Anyone interested in learning to sail at Saundersfoot this season is invited to contact Tina on 01834 812383 or 07979 893344.
Our Training Centre is certified & approved by sailing’s official body - the RYA, and we offer courses for different levels from total beginners to dinghy racing. All sessions are held on Saturdays at times dictated by the tides.
Beginners training operates through June and early July starting with an on-shore session on 12th June followed by 5 sessions “on the water” (weather permitting).
To build on this initial training, an intensive sailing week is available early in the summer holidays (late July) to help individuals progress into our Sunday club racing. Special novice trophies & awards are an added incentive to enhance enjoyment further.
For “improvers” who have some previous training or experience an earlier course of 6 week sessions starts on 10 April and participants in this training are encouraged to gain experience with our regular Sunday sailing.
Parents are also warmly encouraged to get involved or indeed learn to sail if so desired and it is good to see a number of enthusiastic sailing families now in the club who started in this way.

2010 Sailing Programme:

The new season programme is looking as enticing as ever with a total of 45 planned Sunday races comprising the Warm-Up, Mid Season, Late Season and Frostbite Series. We are also planning “Social Sailing Sessions” on Bank Holiday Mondays which will be fun events for all which do not count for points in the Sunday Series. There will also be a special “Water Outing” for all craft and all skill levels on Sunday 13 June with a passage to a secret (as yet) destination plus games and beach BBQ/picnic.
The detailed sailing programme is being distributed with membership renewal information. Any queries to Chris please on 01437 541318.

Sailing Support:

As mentioned previously we depend upon club members to help run the racing programme and a rota is being prepared for safety cover and race management. We urgently need more help for the latter function and we invite anyone who might be willing to help to get in touch with Chris on 01437 541318. Race Officer duty is not an onerous chore but quite rewarding, good fun and sometimes entertaining. In support of this need we will be running a course for Race Officers on Saturday 27th March.

Celtic Challenge with Cawl:

Wales are playing Scotland in the club tomorrow (Saturday) KO at 2pm - on the big screen of course! Wendy’s superb home-made soup will add to the usual benefits of good viewing, good brew and good cheer. Whatever the rugby, the afternoon will be better in the club!

Darting and Rugby:

Our return darts match with Tenby coincides with the Wales France match on Friday 26th February. Kick-off is 8pm with first arrows flighted at about the same time. So there is certainly much to visit the club for that night and possibly some real ale to lubricate proceedings as well! Wendy will be offering up some of her excellent home cooked food so the scene is set for a full and enjoyable evening.

Curried Bowling:

It is hoped to reinstate the postponed bowling event fortified by curries back at the club on Saturday 6th March so please make a note in your diary and let Wendy (01834 813324) know if you would like to come.

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in especially if you want to get into the club! The front door lock number has been changed for security and members will automatically receive the new code when they renew.
Contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk, if not.

Nautical Nips:

Last week there were some snippets about the origins of Bermudian sails. The square sail rigs which preceded them had become very complex with multi masts and many sails all of which had specific names. Thank goodness we do not have the problems of setting such sails every week at the club, but do you know the essential difference between course, topsail, topgallant and royal sails and where do studding sails fit into the picture ?

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 5th FEBRUARY 2010

2010 Weather:

Have we seen the last of the extreme conditions at the start of the year? The picture shows ice moving up on the tide on the River Taf near Laugharne in early January. Difficult to believe we should be sailing again in a few weeks time!

Big screen Rugby:

Ireland vs. Italy at 2.30 and England vs. Wales at 5pm tomorrow (Saturday). Enjoy the rugby in good company in the club with good food (Wendy’s home-made chilli), good drinks and good cheer.

Social Evening with Tenby SC:

On Friday 26th February we are hosting Tenby SC for a return darts match and social evening in the club from 7.30pm. Food will be available. All members are invited to come for an enjoyable evening.

Sailing Programme:

The sailing programme for the coming season will be available shortly. Our activities as always depend upon the support of everyone to undertake the necessary duties to run races and organise events and this indeed provides fun and pleasure for those contributing - so do please offer your help even if you don’t wish to sail. Contact Chris Bannister on 01437 541318 or at contact@bizzyplay.com or any committee member for more information. Committee contact details are on the website www.saundersfootsailingclub.org.uk.

Nautical Nips:

Even landlubbers will be familiar with the triangular sails which dominate the sailing boats of today. The development of this sail arrangement is thought to have begun with fore-and-aft rigged boats built by a Dutch-born Bermudian in the 17th Century.
The design was very useful on the gusty Bermudian waters for the boats that were the mainstay of transport around the archipelago into the 20th Century. The mean wind direction is from the West, and as the islands lie in a line near to the wind, the ability to sail upwind, to the West was vital. Whilst the basic rig design has remained essentially the same, the development of new materials especially in the last few decades, has resulted in great advances of sail efficiency.
The old square rigged systems can still be experienced on the number of Tall Ships which are available for sail training and which have been enjoyed by a number of Saundersfoot Sailing Club members.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 29th JANUARY 2010

Club Access:

The access code for the front door of the club has been changed for security reasons. The new code will be advised to members with their renewal documents for the new season.

Big screen Rugby:

The first matches are Ireland vs. Italy at 2.30 and England vs. Wales at 5pm on Saturday 6th February. Members are invited to enjoy the atmosphere of these games in the clubhouse with the additional incentive of the bar and Wendy’s home made chilli.

Future Social Events:

Friday 26th February darts match and social evening in the club from 7.30pm. Food will be available. This is bound to be a very entertaining event judging from the first away leg.
Also in February it is hoped to hold a wine and cheese evening on a Saturday – date to be advised.

Membership Renewal:

Please keep your membership renewals rolling in. All membership categories are very good value this year after no increases for several years and the £5 Social Membership looks a particular bargain with all the benefits it provides for less than a single round of drinks.
Contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk, if not.

Nautical Nips:

In recent years the National Solo has become an increasingly popular boat at Saundersfoot. Last year a total of eight Solos competed in the Sunday racing. Designed by Jack Holt in 1956, the National Solo dinghy is a classic, one-design, single-handed boat with a Portsmouth Yardstick (its handicap rating) of 1155.
While quite lively it is not as physically demanding as a Laser or many of the other single crew designs. It is available in wood, composite or fibreglass and developments in rig technology mean that it can be sailed competitively by helms from nine and a half to sixteen stones.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 22nd JANUARY 2010

First Aid Course:

There could be the odd place left at the last minute for this course to be held tomorrow (Saturday) 9am start. Please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or turn up with a slice of humble pie or a good late admission excuse.

Bowling vs. International Rugby:

Owing to the distractions of the weather during the booking period, the Bowling evening scheduled for tomorrow – Saturday, has had to be cancelled. This used to be a very popular outing – if you are interested in re-instating a bowling evening please let Wendy Bower (01834 813324) or John Hollies (01994 427767) know.
However to compensate, the International Rugby will be shown on the big screen in the club on Saturday 6th February. Ireland vs. Italy at 2.30 and the big one - England vs. Wales at 5pm. The promised chilli will be served that evening to enhance the atmosphere so all rugby enthusiasts please contact Wendy Bower on 01834 813324 or wendybower@ntlworld.com so that we have an idea of numbers.

Nautical Nips:

Last week’s poser was why the Atlantic Ocean is so called. Some say it was named after the legendary city of Atlantis, whilst others claim that it is after the Atlas Mountains in Morocco.

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 15th JANUARY 2010

Frostbite Series:

How aptly named this seems in the current weather although in fact the whole Series was actually sailed in pretty mild and reasonable conditions. Certainly there was a very good turnout with eleven keen competitors including four relative novices whom it was particularly good to see participating outside the “normal” season.
A total of six races were sailed and more cancellations resulted from too little wind than because of seriously adverse weather. There was strong competition for the top places with only a few points between the top half of the field. The Club Champion for the main-season, Peter Bower in the Phantom, continued his success by taking three first places and one second, thus winning the Frostbite Series. Keith Jones in his Laser was runner-up just two points behind, with Paul Johnson in his Solo a close third. Tim Harrison in a Topper achieved fourth place with some very consistent finishes. Congratulations to all the other competitors and particular thanks to Graham Wellman for his regular undertaking of safety cover and race officer duties.

First Aid Course:

There are a few places still available - anyone wishing to attend the first aid course on Saturday 23rd January please contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk.

Bowling vs. International Rugby:

Owing to the distractions of the weather the Bowling evening scheduled for Saturday 23rd January has had to be cancelled.
However to compensate, the International Rugby will be shown on the big screen in the club on Saturday 6th February. Ireland vs. Italy at 2.30 and the big one - England vs. Wales at 5pm. The promised chilli will be served that evening to enhance the atmosphere so all rugby enthusiasts please contact Wendy Bower on 01834 813324 or wendybower@ntlworld.com so that we have an idea of numbers.

Membership Renewal:

Whilst the freezing weather may not have been widely welcomed, the freeze of subscription rates for membership to the club will have universal appeal. No excuse therefore not to return your application form if you have received one or contact Trevor on 01834 811235 or email trevorsmith9@tiscali.co.uk, if not. Early renewal and payment is always helpful to the club.

Nautical Nips:

The “Great Ocean” was renamed as the Pacific Ocean by Spanish sailors because of the fine weather they experienced on the coast of Peru. However other parts of this vast ocean contradict the name.
Whilst on the origins of names do you know why the Atlantic is so called?

Skippers Mate

SSC PRESS REPORT 8th JANUARY 2010

A VERY HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL READERS

New Years Eve Banquet:

To promote a dinner of three courses and then deliver a gourmet banquet of five, is a pretty infallible recipe for success! This was indeed the experience of the New Year’s Eve event which was enjoyed by a full clubhouse of indulging members. This magnificent repast was prepared by Wendy Bower and extended family to whom we are all extremely thankful. I cannot recall a desire to be committed to a residential home before, but I can only presume that the inhabitant’s of our new Social Secretary’s previous residential home must have enjoyed culinary delights beyond compare and which I would be very happy to participate in. (I trust readers will however refrain from wishing my speedy removal to such an institution - thank you!)

The club looked a “million dollars” with its Christmas decorations and creative table settings. It was a cosy retreat from the bleak easterlies and freezing temperatures outside. Some excellent wines were served to compliment the top quality food and a great atmosphere prevailed to see off the old year and welcome the new. The grandstand view of the usual spectacular fireworks rounded off a great evening.

New Years Day:

New Year’s morning dawned crisp and cloudless with a deceptive warm sun which however can have had little effect upon water temperatures except perhaps to make the water feel relatively even colder. Despite, or because of, the beautiful morning, the usual amazing numbers of insane lemmings competed for spaces to stand shivering on the edge of a windswept beach and then be driven into the icy sea by the maddening cries from stewards and spectators. This ancient ritual never ceases to amaze. I wonder if the recipient charities benefitting from this wild activity can have any real idea of the mad motivation they seem to have generated. Despite their need for early committal, many congratulations to all the participants for providing such a spectacle and raising an excellent sum for good causes.

First Aid Course:

It seems a relevant sequitur from the previous item to remind everyone that a basic first aid course has been arranged for those wanting this useful skill or to update their existing qualification on Saturday 23rd January starting at 9.30am in the Clubhouse.

Bowling and Chilli Evening:

This is booked for Saturday 23rd January - meet at Canaston Bridge at 6.45pm for bowling at 7pm and then back to the club for food and drink. Bookings please to Wendy Bower on 01834 813324 or wendybower@ntlworld.com.

Future Social Events:

During February we have a visit from Tenby Sailing Club members for a return darts match and pleasant social evening on Friday 26th and the intention to hold a wine and cheese evening on a Saturday night yet to be arranged. Further details later.

Membership Renewal:

It is that time of year again and you may well have received an invitation to renew by post already. Early application and payment is always appreciated.

Nautical Nips:

Last year at this time there were reports of the sea freezing along the south coast of England. A half-mile stretch along the shoreline reaching about 20 yards out to sea at the exclusive Sandbanks peninsula which stretches out into the harbour at Poole, Dorset, was frozen. With temperatures here around -9*C on 4th January, maybe we will see some ice on the Saundersfoot sands.
The temperature at which sea water freezes depends upon the varying salt content. Typical sea water can freeze at only about -2*C (if there were no movement) and it is interesting that the ice so formed has a low salt content sometimes even to allow it to be drinkable.

Skippers Mate

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