Royal Southampton Yacht Club - Yachter - Spring 2017

yachter Spring 2017

Here comes Summer!

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Royal Southampton Yacht Club

INSIDE: • Club News • New Members • Racing • Cruising • Social Scene • Narrowboating • RYA Courses • Classic Cars • RSYC Trust

SCHOOL

. . . . . . .

An independent co-educational school for ages 11-18 Academic excellence Strong pastoral support Extensive range of co-curricular opportunities Outstanding facilities Own bus service covering south Hampshire and Salisbury Financial assistance, scholarships and sports awards are available

Wilton Road, Southampton SO15 5UQ T: 023 8079 9216 E: registrar@kes.hants.sch.uk

www.kes.hants.sch.uk Please contact us if you would like to arrange a visit to either school.

Incorporating

Stroud School, Romsey

www.stroud-kes.org.uk

King Edward VI Preparatory School

T: 01794 513231

CONTENTS yachter

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Acting Editor: Angela Rice Telephone: 07801 089676

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Commodore: Commodore: Brian Hinde

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Email rsyc@rsyc.org.uk (Attn Editor) Contributors: Brian Hinde Donna Redford Mark Oliver Jan Cox John Bird Bob Trimble Will Bridge Carol Hadnett Graham Tracey Paul Kilty Christine Agnew Eddie Hill Priscilla Kilty Rod Waller Bob Stevenson Tony Birr

News and features VI Week. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Southampton Sailing Week . . . . . 22 RSYC Trust - Young Carers’ sailing. 23 Narrowboat Namaste . . . . . . . . . 29 Photo and Log Competition . . . . . 48 Racing – 15

Gins’ resident seal.

Advertising: Sales Manager: Marcus Hall Ludis Publications T: 01273 615290 E: info@ludis–publications.co.uk W: www.ludis–publications.co.uk Layout and Design: Sian Collins E: sian@ludis–publications.co.uk Production and Printing: Production Manager: Dominic Loosemore T: 01273 615262 E: dominic@ludis–publications.co.uk Published by: The Royal Southampton Yacht Club Ltd 1 Channel Way, Ocean Village Southampton SO14 3QF Telephone (023) 8022 3352 Fax: (023) 8033 0613 Email: rsyc@rsyc.org.uk Website: www.rsyc.org.uk Gins Clubhouse St Leonards, Beaulieu Telephone (01590) 616213 Fax (01590) 616327 Front Cover photo: — 2016 RSYC Nab Tower Double race on September 18th.

www.rsyc.org.uk

Cruising – 25

Regular columns Commodore’s Letter. . . . . . . . 4 New Members . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Club Secretary’s Corner. . . . . . 7 Farewell and Hello . . . . . . . . . 9 Racing Reports. . . . . . . . . . . 15 Cruising. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Radio Controlled Yachting.. . .

Social - Looking Back and Looking Forward. . . . . . . . . .

Training Courses. . . . . . . . . .

Club News.. . . . . . . . . . . . . .

33 35 45 50

Mike Ford, the long-time Editor, stalwart and currently a Guardian of Royal Southampton Yacht Club, was unfortunately taken ill in January.

This edition of The Yachter has therefore been produced by Deputy Editor Angela Rice.

We are pleased to advise that Mike is now convalescing from surgery at home, and we send him every good wish for his full recovery.

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COMMODORE’S LETTER

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s a mathematician, I know that 2017 is a prime number; it has exactly two factors, in other words nothing goes into it. On the contrary at the RSYC a lot does go into it, starting with the planning by the Club committees. For many organisations planning next year’s calendar can be as simple as just copying last year’s, not forgetting to move Easter.

For any yacht club with tidal waters this could not be further from the truth. Starting with the tides and the desire to try and keep things more-or-less in the same place, it can become a complex juggling act which may not always produce the desired answer. This is not necessarily a bad thing; every event is considered, moved, cancelled and replaced or modified to produce what we hope will prove a great programme for our members and guests. By now you will have received your copy of the renamed On the Water and Ashore 2017 which summarises the result of all this work.

throughout the year to review the strategy for the Club. Standing committees are encouraged to reflect this strategy in the development of their plans to take matters forward as and when movement becomes possible. Such plans are approved by your Executive Committee (the Board) from time to time. In addition the General Manager who, in conjunction with the Club’s Officers, is responsible for the development of the annual business plan reflects the short-term strategic goals in its production. The annual business plan also goes before your Board for ratification.’

The full paper, which is posted on our website (www.rsyc.org.uk) goes on to provide insights into the current environment in which the Club operates, the various challenges and opportunities we have and possible directions in which we may develop. It makes for very interesting reading and Members are strongly urged to make a point of perusing it.

Feedback is welcomed.

The social scene at Ocean Village this winter has been excellent, enhanced particularly by the monthly events – our gregarious Convivial evenings, high calibre Steak and Kidney Pudding Club speakers and the ever popular Quiz Nights. We were also honoured by a visit from our Admiral, Prince Michael, who takes a keen interest in our Club, and the Flags and I also had the opportunity to lunch

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2017 - A Prime Year

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with the new Lord and Lady Montagu to discuss matters of mutual interest relating to Gins and the Beaulieu River.

The days are getting longer and our thoughts are moving away from social life to on the water activities.

As the seasons change, so do staff move on. I wrote about the change of Club Secretary in the Members Handbook, and by now you will also be aware that our Sailing Secretary has retired.

It’s never a good time to lose 30 years of knowledge and experience but the sailing programme for the year is in place so February is a good place to end. We wish Cathy a long and happy retirement and look forward to seeing her out on the water rather than in the office.

Another retirement this spring is that of our Head Chef Glenn Shears. Glenn has been leading our catering for 25 years and has been responsible for many of the memorable meals enjoyed at the Club. We hope that he also has a long and happy retirement; I hope that he has left the recipe for the club’s famous steak and kidney puddings.

May this Summer be a prime time for you – both afloat and ashore!

Brian Hinde Commodore

Your Flag Officers and Committees put no less thought and effort into Club strategy, which concerns itself with larger and longer-term issues. As Vice Commodore, Tony Knight has lead responsibility for this. Tony has prepared an excellent paper on how the Club establishes and implements its strategic direction.

He explains – ‘The Flag Officers and Club Treasurer together with the General Manager meet periodically 4

yachter Spring 2017

Commodore Brian Hinde and wife Lesley www.rsyc.org.uk

CLUB NEWS

New Members T

he RSYC welcomes the following new members since the last issue. We look forward to seeing them at both Clubhouses and to meeting them at events both on and off the water

NAME

ADDRESS

BOAT NAME

MOORING

Claude Le Got-Vivier & Michel Lepoix Southampton

n/a

n/a

Coco Le Got Giles Graham

Southampton Beaulieu

n/a n/a

n/a n/a

Stuart & Nick Gladwell

Southampton Dorset Southampton Lee-on-the-Solent Gosport

n/a Champers

n/a

John & Pamela Greening Alastair Welch Alan & Lyn Williams Chris Ibbotson & Richard Reis

n/a n/a n/a

Harold Brown Toby & Alison Cooper Martin Francis & Julie Phillips Peter & Jane Crook Roy & Deborah Burgess Donna Redford Martin & Inge Baggaley Alan Roberts Edward Hart Conrad Manning

Glasgow Andover Southampton Southampton Epsom Downs Southampton Stanley Upham London Gosport

n/a n/a n/a Blue Moon Calypso Mijulie Kinburgh Saturn's Moon

Giles Innes Oliver Stanley Danny Stevens Mike & Barbara Smart Jack Vincent Jamie Abdy Collins & Fiona Davies Andrew Easton & Julie Ann Rushton Piers & Angela Benn Tony & Jane Physick

Southampton Beaulieu Basingstoke Southampton West Sussex Gloucestershire Beaulieu Berkshire Southampton

n/a S/Y Tomahawk Sundancer Sherpa Babooshka

Nigel & Jane Scott Michael Arthur Roger Wilson

Marlborough Romsey Lymington

Tamar Swallow Triarchy Elida

Beaulieu Beaulieu

David Page & Elizabeth Forbes Andrew Kinnear & Christine Remacle Aspasia-Sofia Pastrikou Geoffrey & Kate Caesar Richard & Puri Weeks Ian & Julie Andrew Paul James Craig Mccalley

Romsey Fordingbridge Southampton Buckinghamshire Southampton Southsea Maidenhead Penn

Perchance to Dream Aumer

Beaulieu Beaulieu n/a Beaulieu Beaulieu Beaulieu n/a n/a

www.rsyc.org.uk

n/a Malaspina OC21 M V Flicka n/a Pathfinder Going Concern Massbanker Sapphire of Windermere

n/a Gulliver G Curious Juliana n/a n/a

Ocean Village Beaulieu Ocean Village Ocean Village Ocean Village n/a Ocean Village IOW Imperial Wharf n/a Cracknore SC Lymington Beaulieu Ocean Village n/a Bucklers Hard Beaulieu Hythe

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Club news

Club Secretary’s Corner Club Secretary Donna Redford pauses to reflect on her first six months…

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ince the changing of the watch here in November, with former Club Secretary’ Gary Stock’s departure for Twickenham, I have managed to get involved in virtually every aspect of the Club. It has been a priority to get to know the Club personnel, establish their strengths and aspirations and identify training requirements. Together we are embarking on a journey to ensure that we consistently provide our members with the service and hospitality that they deserve. I will always lead from the front and believe in ‘setting the pace’ as an example to all employees.

I have been fortunate enough to meet a great many members in a relatively short space of time, helped by my joining during the festive season when we were successful in having fully booked Christmas Events. But please do forgive me if I don’t immediately remember everyone’s name! I received such a warm welcome from my committees and members and have acquired a number of personal requests for changes, and it is part of my job is to ensure that change is made where it is needed to ensure that the Royal Southampton YC maintains its already enviable reputation and builds upon it. The aim is for RSYC to become known for exceptional service and food quality as well as outstanding racing and sailing and social experiences.

I have spent much time at Gins and arranged a redecoration programme and reconfiguration of the bar. Work continues to improve the overall look and feel inside the Clubhouse. At the same time menus are being reviewed and we are looking forward to adding an ‘Al Fresco’ dining option this summer.

In tandem with these initiatives a working group is providing a much needed review of the dinghy park and gear store.

I confess that I am enjoying the incidental challenges I find myself facing almost daily. Since I took over the helm we have weathered a major IT problem and experienced equipment breakdowns and staffing challenges…

But it’s what (amongst the other more ambitious objectives) I’m here for!

‘Watch out – Here comes Donna!’

A nervous Donna trying out the electric bike presented to Cathy – down the Club corridor.

We still have a long way to go to meet our high aspirations, but with the current investment in the team through training and support, the only way is up! Noone said this was going to be easy…

Donna Redford Club Secretary

Enquiry Ash Stanbrook has sent us the following message – ‘I have read with close interest your website history of the RSYC. My Father, William ‘Bill’ Stanbrook joined the RSYC at 79 Above Bar in 1928, at the age of 14, as, I assume, a junior assistant.

He served in the 8th Army during the war. I assume the Club left his job open for his return and he went on to be the Club Steward.

He married my Mother, Monica Harvey in 1954 (see picture) who I believe also worked at the Club, and they left to run a pub in Christchurch‘.’

It’s a very long time ago, but if any Member anyone knows of anyone who might remember his parents and has anything to offer about them, Ash can be contacted at ashstanbrook@yahoo.co.uk

www.rsyc.org.uk

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Club news

Farewell - and Hello Sorry to see you go…

GLENN SHEARS After more than 25 years of superb service to the Club Glenn Shears, our Head Chef, retired at the end of March.

Glenn receiving a farewell kiss from RSYC Member Helena Lucas MBE (the first British sailor to win a Paralympic gold medal)

During his time at the Club the Ocean Village restaurant has become established as one of the most popular dining venues amongst yachtsmen. Glenn has specialised in traditional dishes such as his delicious Liver and Bacon, his Steak and Kidney suet puddings which are renowned and the Sunday Lunch and Quiz Night carvery that we have all

enjoyed. Members attending our formal Club events such as the Christmas Party, Burns Night and the Commodore’s Dinner have all experienced dining to equal these impressive occasions.

However there comes a time when we all need to think about a different way of life and to look forward to enjoying more leisure time.

Glenn – we would all like to thank you for your dedication and loyalty to the Club and its members, and to wish you all the best in a well deserved retirement. You will be missed.

CATHY CRAWLEY Very sadly – for us! - Cathy Crawley, our Sailing Secretary also recently left the Club to begin a well earned early retirement. Cathy is well known to many members having served them for 30 years in a variety of roles, including Assistant Secretary, Membership, Social and Sailing Secretary. Cathy is pictured receiving an electric bike from Cathy Crawley, our sailing secretary also recently decided she needed time out for a ‘Senior Gap Year’ after 30 years with the Club and rode off into the sunset on the electric bike which was presented to her by the Commodore on behalf of the club and the many friends she has made amongst the membership. Also pictured with her is Jan Cox, former Club Secretary and now a Guardian of the Club, who recruited Cathy all those years ago!

Cathy will be missed by the staff and membership alike and leaves with our best wishes for an exciting and enjoyable new phase in her life.

Cathy’s Farewell presentation

Delighted to welcome you…

MARK OLIVER

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SYC has been very fortunate to secure the services of Mark Oliver to replace Cathy as Sailing Secretary.

An ex-Londoner who moved to Cowes in 2005, Mark’s original career was as an Architect, but in 1990 he started a motorsport business that grew to become the London agency for Caterham Cars; the well known sports and racing car manufacturer (and also, recently a Formula 1 team). Mark’s company built and maintained racing cars for private clients and transported them to British and European race circuits, providing mechanic support for testing and racing events. Since

www.rsyc.org.uk

the sale of Mark’s business he has worked mostly as a yacht broker for Ancasta, but also for three years dealing with the sale and manufacture of load monitoring equipment for the offshore marine industry. During this time he persuaded his employers to consider yachting applications for their products and the result was the “RopeSense” telemetry system now available from Spinlock for monitoring loads in the rigs of yachts and superyachts.

Mark has always loved sailing.

His first boat, in the 1970’s, was a 12ft Cherub racing dinghy and during three successive summer holidays from school, he worked

at a sailing school in Felpham on Sea that was run by the then class secretary. He currently races and cruises, with his wife Kim, in their much loved 1977 Contessa 32, ‘Connie’ and for, several years now, has organised the thriving CO32 Class One-Design Inshore Championship that tours the Solent clubs.

Mark says ‘I am thrilled to be involved with the RSYC, with its wonderful premises and facilities and particularly its excellent race management team. I see this as a remarkable opportunity and am looking forward to working with the membership and the Club’s dedicated staff.’ yachter Spring 2017

Mark Oliver 9

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Club news

Club Guardian Jan Cox looks back at Cathy Crawley’s contribution to the RSYC -

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he RSYC was between clubhouses when I appointed Cathy in 1986, the Northlands Road clubhouse having been sold whilst Ocean Village was still a building site. We were therefore working out of an office in the Canute’s Pavilion shopping mall which was then in Ocean Village. At that time our membership records were kept on a Kalamazoo loose-leaf binder system almost as old as the club itself. Between us - and with help from Mike Driscoll our bookkeeper – we moved all the membership records and accounts onto the club’s first ever computer – a very basic machine which we shared whilst continuing other work on our Word Processors! During her first year with the club Cathy was entrusted with a blank cheque to travel to the auction houses of London and secure the Vanduara Bowl, which is one of our most coveted trophies. I moved on in 1993, but Cathy continued for another 23 years after that!

Those accustomed to corporate workplaces are sometimes unaware of the degree of challenge that is presented by the work culture of a membership organisation, with accountability to frequently changing volunteer postholders, and the shifts in direction and management style associated with this. To operate effectively in this type of environment for 30 years as professionally and pleasantly as Cathy has managed to do is a truly remarkable achievement. Additionally she has contributed to the life of the Club in a personal capacity, racing in the double handed series and also as a Club Race Officer for very many years, both out on the Hound and at Cowes. Cathy is very well known and highly respected by all the Solent Clubs, and the high profile that the Royal Southampton Yacht Club has amongst the entire racing fraternity is undoubtedly in part attributable to her attitude and efforts.

Well done, Cathy!

Seal of Approval for Gins Not many Yacht Clubs can boast their own resident seal. If you haven’t met ours yet you can’t have been spending enough time at Gins clubhouse. He / She swam in a couple of years ago, apparently liked the look of the place (who wouldn’t?) and has now become something of a self-appointed Deputy Bosun, popping up companionably from time to time to lend a flipper.

Having made the effort, just before this edition went to press, to pose so well for the camera on the versadock at the end of the Gins pontoon, we felt she/he deserved a wider public. (The things a girl has to do to get media attention… It must be a She) Our accessibility arrangements have clearly now been given the official Seal of Approval!

How about a name? With apologies to a certain wellknown character around the club, perhaps it should be Ginny? Better ideas to rsyc@rsyc.org.uk (Attn Editor) please!

Angela Rice

Olympic stars and RSYC Members join runners in ABP Southampton Half Marathon Congratulations and a big ‘Well Done’ to all RSYC Club Members who participated in the Southampton Fun Run, 10k, Half and Full Marathon on Sunday, 23 April. These included Honorary Club Members and sailing celebrities Helena Lucas and Dee Caffari, who both recorded very respectable results in the Southampton Half Marathon and raised much - needed sponsorship for their chosen charities.

Helena Lucas: Finishing time - 01 hrs: 56 mins: 07 secs Av. Speed 6.7 mph Overall position 53rd Dee Caffari: Finishing time - 02 hrs:17 min:17 secs Av. Speed 5.7 mph Overall position 543rd

www.rsyc.org.uk

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SAILING

Blind Week

In prospect…

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s I write this we’re enjoying dry and sunny spring weather in advance of the Easter Bank Holiday. The Spring Equinox is behind us and the clocks have gone forward. This all helps us to look ahead to what we hope will be a long and warm summer season. Once again the RSYC has a very full programme of activities planned to offer something for everyone who’d like to get out on the water.

As Rear Commodore Sailing it’s my privilege to work with a great team of your fellow members who further your interests by putting in so much hard year-round work to organise our annual programmes. I won’t repeat the detail here but in these pages and elsewhere you should find something to tempt you out on the water be your interest in cruising, dinghies, racing, race management, radio controlled craft or training.

Bob Trimble Rear Commodore Sailing

In addition...

This summer also sees the RSYC taking its biennial turn to host Blind Week here in Southampton (June 24 – 30).

The article by Will Bridge in this edition will tell you more about how this all works. Please see the website for details of how to contact Will or Bob Foster Young - or just contact them through the office - if you’d like to get involved in this inspiring event.

2017 will also see the RSYC helping to support Southampton’s first Sailing Week over the late May Bank Holiday (May 24 – 29). There will be a variety of events on and off the water including racing and a ‘Parade of Sail’ open to all craft in Southampton Water on May 27.

In conclusion…

Don’t forget that it is one of our strengths that we strive to be the friendliest Royal Yacht Club in the Solent.

Please share your yachting enthusiasms with your family and friends, get them involved and invite them along to your Club.

None of what we do would be possible without the help and energy of the Club’s front and back office staff. We were sad to see our Sailing Secretary Cathy Crawley depart in February after thirty years in that post but we were delighted to welcome Mark Oliver as her successor and we wish him every success.

With best wishes for a great new season on the water with family and friends – Bob Trimble Rear Commodore Sailing

For full details of all our planned activities please refer to your copy of our annual ‘On the Water and Ashore’ publication and you can keep up to date with the latest information about everything going on at the Club via our website at www.rsyc.org.uk www.rsyc.org.uk

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RACING REPORTS

Captain of Sailing David Stott reports on the Autumn, Winter and Spring Series 2016 Citando Double Handed Series Citando St Peter Port Double

The winners were

A light westerly, which at times veered to a northerly F5, before backing to a F1-3 westerly in the morning, made for a challenging race, forcing a few boats to retire rather than face an afternoon battling the foul tide at Little Russel. After some well-earned rest, the prize giving was held at Guernsey Yacht Club along with a good meal and some well-earned drinks.

IRC 1 – Bigfoot Rob Nelson & Kate Cope IRC 2 – Google Eye Pat Stables & Nigel Hunter RSYC 3 – Azygos Dave Stott & John Skipper RSYC 4 – Cava Dave Williams & Will Logothetis

Citando Nab Double

Citando Autumn Solent Double

Fifty boats gathered on a very light morning, which led to a delayed start and what turned out to be a well-judged shortened course. After a late start with the tide, Classes 2 and 4 turned shortly after the forts, while classes 1 and 3 gybed at New Grounds.

IRC 1 – Sunshine Malcolm Roberts & Mark Lewis

Thirty one boats gathered in the vicinity of Hill Head in light conditions that died away shortly before the start. An AP was hoisted and so began a wait of almost two hours before a breeze filled in, which varied from ten to sixteen knots and from south-west to almost due south. Hard work for the race management team, but an enjoyable race ensued with the IRC classes proving competitive with some very close results.

IRC 2 – Ziggy Kevin Downer & Timothy Eccles

The winners were

RSYC 3 – Azygos Dave Stott & John Skipper

IRC 1 – Juliette Jerry Freeman & Steve Reeves

RSYC 4 – Squirrel Graham & Hubert Smyth

IRC 2 – Ziggy Kevin Downer & Timothy Eccles

First places in each class were

RSYC 3 – Magec Mike Garvey and James Hill RSYC 4 – Tudor Rose III Richard Cooke & Peter Reucroft

www.rsyc.org.uk

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COWES WEEK Racing Reports

Series Winners of the Citando Double Handed Events Offshore

Alongshore

Inshore

IRC 1 – Mostly Harmless Tom Hayhoe & Natalie Jobling

IRC 1 – Psipsina Bernie Bingham

IRC 1 – Malice Bill & John West

IRC 2 – Mandarin Paul Dunstan & Michael Price

IRC 2 – Ziggy Kevin Downer & Timothy Eccles

RSYC 3 – Larissa Andy White & Adrian Parker

RSYC 3 – Magec Mike Garvey & James Hill

RSYC 4 – Squirrel Graham & Hubert Smyth

RSYC 4 – Tudor Rose III Richard Cooke & Peter Reucroft

IRC 2 – Google Eye Pat Staples & Nigel Hunter RSYC 3 – Azygos Dave Stott & John Skipper RSYC 4 – Cava Dave Williams & Will Logothetis

Overall results of the Citando Double Handed Series

16

IRC 1

RSYC 3

1st – Mostly Harmless Tom Hayhoe & Natalie Jobling

1st – Azygos Dave & Jim Stott

2nd – Jo Jo Gunne Bill & John West

2nd – Songline Sir Alan Rudge & Alister Morely

3rd – Synerjy Charles Ivill

3rd – Larissa Adrian Parker & Andy White

IRC 2

RSYC 4

1st – Google Eye Pat Staples & Nigel Hunter

1st – Squirrel Graham & Hubert Smyth

2nd – Ziggy Kevin Downer & Timothy Eccles

2nd – Cava Dave Williams & Will Logothetis

3rd – Pastime of Hamble Pete Sidebotham & Rob Mackinalty

3rd – Bedouin Ian Ward & Sam Hatch

yachter Spring 2017

www.rsyc.org.uk

RACING REPORTS

2016 Coastal Pursuits Winter Series The ten race series to round off the year enjoyed mixed conditions with no cancellations due to the weather. So the maximum number of two discards was applied to give Mike Garvey’s X362, Magec seven wins and one second place. As this is a club rated event, this could have a dramatic effect on this boat’s handicap for 2017.

1st – Magec Mike Garvey 2nd – Dark & Stormy Andrew Bell 3rd – Jackdaw David Ward

2017 NJO Sails Frostbite Series With a new sponsor, this 12 race event experienced superb conditions for the time of year. No frost, gusts rarely in excess of 25 knots and some glorious sunshine for the final day. One morning was tainted by moderate to poor visibility, but careful planning by the race management team allowed a simple but safe course to be set.

NJO Sails provide high quality sails and sail repairs and has recently taken-over what used to be Doyle’s loft in Shamrock Quay.

See www.njosails.co.uk or email info@njosails.co.uk The NJO Sails Frostbite winners were Class 1 – IRC Malice Hugh Phillips Class 2 – I RC J’ronimo David Greenhalgh Class 3 – RSYC Azygos Dave Stott

www.rsyc.org.uk

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RACING REPORTS

Spring / Summer 2017 programme RSYC Spring Series The RSYC Spring Series started on Sunday 3rd April.

This is a 10 race Series with two races each morning, for monohulls and multihulls.

So far “Magec” has had four wins, despite a handicap increase.

Stuart Danby’s Mustang 30 “Respect” is showing good form with two wins and Michael Livingstone’s Rum N Cork should be able to mix it with the leaders

despite missing the first four races.

With four races left, only high level consistency is going to threaten Magec.

RSYC Double Handed Series The 37th year of the UK’s most successful short-handed race series continues with a new sponsor. We are proud that Koris, who specialise in future voice and data infrastructure requirements, have teamed up with RSYC for three years. See www.koris.co.uk This year’s format is a Main Series comprising 8 races, sub-divided into two sub-series (Solent & Passage Series) of 4 races each.

The main entries are likely to make up two IRC classes, with the possibility of subdivisions for the Island Double, subject to sufficient entries. The ever popular J-88`s are expected to have their own class and trophy within IRC1. Two club classes are available for non-IRC rated boats, beginners or less serious racers. All you have to do is fill in a declaration form with your entry - Please see the race entry and the race documents section of the website.

The action this year started as usual with the Spring Solent Double (Saturday 29th April) The weekend of 20th and 21st May sees the first two races of the Passage Sub-Series. The Class 40 Concise 2 Hedkandi is amongst the entries for what is expected to be an early start in the vicinity of Royal Thames.

The Concise 2 (‘Hedkandi’) www.rsyc.org.uk

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COWES WEEK Cowes

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BLIND WEEK

Some VI crew are partially sighted, needing concentration and second pair of eyes to helm

VI Week 2017… Get involved

I

n early Summer 2017 an inspiring annual event returns to the Solent – one that gives around 50 blind and partially sighted people the chance to develop sailing skills by crewing aboard cruising yachts. The 25 regular private yachts, their skippers/ owners and their sighted crew provide their VI participants with an amazing sense of empowerment… the freedom of the sea! It is a week’s experience all involved never forget.

The event’s base (where crews spend their first and last nights) alternates annually between the Royal Southampton Yacht Club and the Royal Cornwall Yacht Club in Falmouth. The focus is a “cruise in company” as on Day Two the event then divides into five fleets of around five yachts, each fleet with its own itinerary.

All fleets start by focussing on briefings and VI awareness training - including safety procedures. They then embark upon a daily programme of manageable coastal passages and sociable evening gatherings.

Last Summer the 2016 VI Sailors’ Week in Cornwall was notable on many counts. It attracted a record crop of new-to-sailing visually impaired adults, and also new volunteer skippers - The most enterprising of whom sailed all the way from East Anglia to participate in the event. Being Cornwall, it had its wet and windy moments, when a quickly arranged visit to the National Maritime Museum (West), involving touch and feel exhibits including a vintage diving suit, was a great hit!

were new to sailing with VI crew were all provided with suitable training and aids. In addition, the organisers ensured that the new sighted skippers were allocated more experienced VI crew members, one of whom kindly said that she would “show him the ropes”! Thus started one of many long-term friendships between people of widely differing abilities - which are a hallmark of the event.

New sighted skippers and crew, and visually impaired adults who have never taken to the water are all warmly invited to consider During the rest of the week, on participating in the next passage between some great West (Solent – based) VI Week Country harbours, new VI crew 24 June to 1 July 2017. It will be helmed using audio-compasses based at RSYC’s Ocean Village (including some based upon prototype Southampton location, then visiting smartphone apps) whilst more accomplished VI sailors (including Warsash Sailing Club, Gins Farm Lucy Hodges, the UK World in the beautiful Beaulieu river and Champion VI sailor and Honorary other parts of the Solent and south RSYC Member) relished the breezy coast. For participating “sighties”, conditions which allowed them to sailing experience is ofCoordinator courseWill Bridge More information, advice and encouragement is available from the event’s mail@willbridge.com, or the local RSYC Organiser, but Bob Young, sail by the feel of the atwind and the necessary, for atvisually impaired . motion of the yacht –bobfosteryoung@btinternet.com a great sense of folk it is not. As indicated above, empowerment for all concerned! awareness training and plenty of subsequent help and support is At the start of the event, the available. sighted skippers and crew who More information, advice and encouragement is available from the event’s Coordinator Will Bridge at: mail@willbridge.com, or the local RSYC Organiser, Bob Young, at bobfosteryoung@btinternet.com.

Far left: A sighted skipper learning to sail “blind” Left: After a day on the water , a bit of sociable apres sail! www.rsyc.org.uk

After a day on the water , a bit of sociable apres sail !

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COWES WEEK SAILing WEEK SOUTHAMPTON

Water sight to see on the Solent!

History is set to be created on Southampton Water this spring as the city hosts a spectacular parade of sail. Hundreds of craft, from one-man kayaks to huge luxury yachts, will take to the water to celebrate the first ever Southampton Sailing Week, being staged over the late May Bank Holiday (24th to 29th May).

The action will begin at 11am on Saturday May 27 led by a Svitzer tug shooting plumes of water into the sky.

Following close behind will be the larger of the participating vessels such as motorboats and RIBs (Rigid Inflatable Boats). Trailing them will be the smaller sail boats and dinghies, followed finally by canoes, kayaks and paddleboards.

The parade will be from the Itchen Bridge towards the Hamble River, and as many as 500 different watercraft could take part.

Anyone with a sea-worthy vessel is invited to participate in the parade of sail. To register your interest - or to find out the best vantage points to watch from the shore -visit www.southamptonsailingweek.co.uk RSYC is helping to support Southampton Sailing Week, which will also include a variety of other events on and off the water, including racing.

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RSYC TRUST Graham Tracey, Trustee of the recently formed RSYC Trust, outlines the aims and recent achievements of the Trust – and invites you to get involved in this hugely worthwhile and rewarding project

Young Carers take to the water with the Royal Southampton Yacht Club Trust A number of young carers in Hampshire set sail for the very first time this Spring, courtesy of donations already made to the Royal Southampton Yacht Club Trust.

This was the response from Romsey Young Carers group, after the first session – ‘Thank you from all of us for a brilliant day! Everyone had a great time and you saw for yourself the shift in X (one of the participants) and the amazing effect the experience had on him’ The generosity of Club Members’ and sponsors’ donations to the Trust have already enabled two extremely deserving groups of children aged between 8 and 18 years to relinquish their responsibilities as carers for a day to learn a new skill and experience the fun, fraternity and freedom associated with getting afloat in dinghies. After returning from sailing, a special lunch has been provided for the youngsters during which everyone has time to share their stories from the morning’s session on the water.

A personalised and individually signed certificate is presented by the Commodore to each participant.

Together with RSYC Trust

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Ambassador Helena Lucas MBE, the Paralympic gold medallist, the Trust is focusing primarily but not exclusively on youngsters, young adults and in particular Carers, and aims to encourage participation in sailing and associated water activities for those looking to develop their sailing skills in dinghies, canoes and other small craft.

At the launch of the Trust, RSYC Commodore Brian Hinde said ‘Living and working where we do, sailing should be a sport of choice for local young people and we hope to make entry into sailing a little easier through the Trust. Our hope is to build upon the popularity of dinghy sailing.’

‘At our Gins Clubhouse on the Beaulieu River we are working towards supporting sailing as an activity for all. These are exciting times for the Club and I am delighted to see that the Trust is becoming a positive force in the local community.’

As well as supporting the local community and organising special days for extremely deserving individuals, the cash donations received are being used to set up and run On The Water activities; to purchase dinghies and to fund instructor time. Once the Trust

is well established, bursaries and grants will be awarded to individuals or groups interested in taking up the sport or becoming involved with maritime pursuits.

The Trust’s charitable status enables Gift Aid to increase the value of any charitable donations made. If you would like to make a donation to the Trust or support its valuable work by volunteering your time, skills, equipment or sponsorship of an event please call Maggie Puleston on Tel: 02380 210877 or email: maggie@rsyc.org.uk.

In particular, the Trust is urgently seeking help from members or volunteers to assist in the following areas • Experienced dinghy sailors and particularly those with instructor qualifications • People who could help with identifying and preparing applications for grants to enable us to take even more people sailing Finally, if you know of a deserving person or group who would like an opportunity to try their hand at sailing, do please contact Maggie Puleston (as above).

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Cruising MEMORIES

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cruising REVIEW

FROM THE CAPTAIN OF CRUISING - Paul Kilty T

he sailing seasons come and go.

As a new season is starting there is still time to reflect on the last few winter rallies.

The rally to Newtown Creek was looking to be more than the usual challenge, as poor weather was forecast, and one or two of our crew members were showing some reluctance. However the weather forecaster spotted our difficulties and promised a much better afternoon. Six boats trusted the forecast and slipped their moorings late morning. By mid-afternoon we were tucked up on buoys in the Creek, and enjoyed a lazy afternoon.

Following a moon-lit dinghy ride to Shalfleet we all enjoyed a lively dinner at the New Inn. Sunday morning brought warmth and sunshine, and a party set forth

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to ramble the lanes to the east of the creek. But the real reward for some of us who waited till dusk to return with the tide was sailing in the “Super Moon� back up the Solent.

Now we look forward to the new season. Our traditional rallies are all planned this year the first, our Easter Rally, which includes the time honoured Safari Supper, is a sell-out.

Our Frostbite rallies were also great successes. At Mercury we were superbly treated with our host James Hanratty inviting as many as could be accommodated to a champagne reception on Alana III. A total of thirty-one members then tucked down to a delicious dinner at The Waters Edge, where the conviviality continued.

Bob Stevenson is hosting a cruise to the Channel Islands and Adjacent Coasts of France, taking in the French coast from St Caast to Carteret in June. With other rallies to Chichester, Poole and Bembridge, not to mention St Vaast and Beyond, and a West Country cruise, there are lots of activities on offer.

The rally to Marchwood, ably hosted by our Commodore, Brian Hinde, exceeded all expectations, where the new chef on his first day served up a truly delightful meal to twenty-five members.

Both motor-boats and sailing yachts are welcomed on rallies and cruises.

Indeed several of our Rally hosts have graduated to propeller power, and may even be there to take lines when their slower brethren arrive!

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2017 EASTER RALLY

The Easter Rally was an outstanding success, with a record eighteen boats attending, and was blessed with continuous sunshine.

The Safari Supper, arranged by our host Martin Alexander at East Cowes, went very smoothly and gave us all an opportunity to meet our many new members.

John Cavanagh, our host at Yarmouth, had the foresight to arrange for us all to stay in the main marina and, following an enjoyable pontoon party in the sunshine, we had a very good meal at the Royal Solent Yacht Club.

The Rally was rounded off, as is traditional, with the usual excellent lunch at Gins.

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2017 EASTER RALLY

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NARROWBOAT Feature

Namaste Goes Up to Town Winner of this year’s RSYC Cruise Log competition, Christine Agnew, continues her account of how she and her husband, Past Commodore Gordon, swapped their customary offshore sailing grounds for inshore adventures on their 57 foot narrowboat.

…And then, there was the Thames T

here’s no two ways about it, people head to the canals for peace and quiet, tranquility and solitude. However, if one is a bluewater sailor at heart, there are times when one welcomes a bit of excitement. This can be found when one ventures onto one of the many rivers and coastal regions that join up with the country’s dedicated canal systems.

Years ago we had travelled in our narrowboat Namaste down the Oxford canal and onto the Thames, passing Windsor, Marlow, Henley and Teddington Lock, re-entering the Grand Union at Brentford.

We discovered that at this point most narrowboaters call it a day and head back into the canals.

The 15 miles and 4 hour passage from Limehouse Basin to Brent in either direction on the tidal Thames, is not embarked upon

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without substantial planning.

The waters just above the Thames barrier can be fast and very challenging, especially to a boat that has no keel and a freeboard just 12 inches above the water level.

I would compare it to being in a dinghy in the Alderney race.

So there was our challenge. Fellow boaters we spoke to about the venture shook their heads muttering “Really”, “Well”, or “That sounds interesting”. However, undeterred, we put this trip onto the Agnew Bucket List.

And so it was that more recently we set about making plans for our journey, which would comprise 148 locks, 160 miles on the canals and 15 miles along the River Thames.

The first thing was to co-opt some much needed help from RSYC friends who could walk on rough

footpaths, even in the rain, work the locks, make coffee, sleep in a four foot wide double bed and who also enjoyed wine and beer and frequent visits to pubs (this latter being to help them sleep in the four foot wide bed!). And who of course were also prepared to live in a 57 foot steel tube for 4 or 5 days at a time.

One couple needed to be brave – or foolish - enough to sail the waters of the tidal Thames and assist us in avoiding the shipping traffic of central London and the many bridges that we would encounter.

We set off from Nether Heyford, near Northampton, in late July, a chilly but sunny day with Richard and Stephanie House on board.

We entered the Blissworth Tunnel mid-afternoon. It’s nearly 2 miles long and pitch dark with only a couple of inches to spare either side in the event of your meeting a boat

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Narrowboat Feature

continued from page 29 coming the other way. Richard and Stephanie were, however, delighted to hear that they did not have to “leg it” through the tunnel as would have been done when it opened in 1805. Next morning we took the opportunity to visit the interesting Canal Museum in Stoke Bruerne.

Five days later, well exercised and with newly-toned muscles, we said our goodbyes and dropped them off in a very sunny Hemel Hempstead.

We picked up John and Julia Strudwick, our second visitors, who journeyed with us through Croxley Green and Uxbridge keeping us well stocked with wine and beer. Leaving the Grand Union and entering the Paddington Arm, we passed the famous Kensal Green Cemetery with its elaborate monuments to Trollope, Thackeray, Decimus Burton and Isambard Kingdom Brunel, along with glimpses of Wormwood Scrubs. This interesting and lock-free section of canal leads into Little Venice.

We crossed the amazing North

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Circular Aquaduct over one of the city’s busiest roads, and into what was once the epicentre of London’s docks at Paddington.

James and Jackie Miller joined us at Little Venice, the romantic heartland of the southern canal system. We travelled alongside Regents Park Zoo, Camden Street Market and on to Limehouse Dock and our first glimpse of the Thames.

Sailing skills were now needed.

Tidal streams were consulted and the opening times of the lock checked to ensure a safe passage.

We needed to leave 2 hours before high water to miss the strong early flood but also to ensure the tide stayed with us up to Brentford.

Unfortunately for the Dockmaster, our times didn’t match the lock’s normal opening hours, so we had to arrange with him to leave his bed unreasonably early in the morning to open the lock for our early departure. He linked us up with a smaller boat to act as a “buddy” for the trip.

Finally, it was departure day.

We were so excited, and it was a beautiful morning. We climbed out of bed at 5 am, had a light breakfast, put on our lifejackets, checked the boat radio and our “buddy” boat to make sure they were ready and finally at 5.30 am called the Dockmaster to make the lock ready.

There are few locks in the UK the size of Limehouse. The water outlets are huge and she emptied rapidly as we hung onto the vertical bars with our warps. Finally the water stopped, all went quiet and the dock gates slowly ground open to reveal the vast expanse of the Thames racing past the entrance.

Thankfully, leaving Limehouse so early meant that traffic was light, but nevertheless, we crept nervously out of the lock, our hearts pounding, as we assessed the effect the tide was having on the boat, the rudder and the engine speed.

The tide picks you up and runs with you like having the wind in your sails. We began heading west and journeyed up the northern side of

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NARROWBOAT Feature

the Thames with our buddy a few boat lengths behind. Namaste was coping well and, thankfully, making controlled headway.

Even neap tides carry the boats swiftly through the swirling waters that sweep through the arches of the bridges. We carefully watched the signals that indicated which sector of each bridge we should use. The first one we came to - and probably the most spectacular - was Tower Bridge, built in 1894, with the Tower of London alongside.

Then, before we knew it, there was London Bridge. There has been a bridge there since 1176, when a wooden structure was the only bridge over the Thames.

We felt very small and extremely vulnerable as the huge arches towered above us.

We ticked off the bridges one by one as we passed the many landmarks, including Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre and then suddenly there was The London Eye, dominating the skyline. No sooner had we swept past it than the Houses of

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Parliament were on our right with the wide exclusion zone marked out on the water.

By now the commuters were racing passed us in Clippers (water taxies twice the size of the Red Jets) as London and the Thames came to life. The main excitement over, we were able to relax a little.

James who knows London well, gave us a running commentary on the locations and sights we were passing. We journeyed on passed the Tate Britain, Battersea Power Station, through Putney and Hammersmith with the old Harrod’s Depository, Kew and finally on to Brent. The Thames was much quieter by now. We could relax at last.

We had done it. Another tick on the Agnew Bucket List! It had been the most fantastic morning, beautiful weather, great company, amazing scenery, 15 miles, 26 bridges and probably the most challenging 4 hours we will ever spend on Namaste. We waved goodbye to our “buddy” boat as we turned off the

Thames and onto the Grand Union at Brent to enjoy a late breakfast.

James and Jackie left us a couple of days later at Uxbridge and we set off on our own once again up the Grand Union. Hilary and Chris Maskell joined us for the last five days as we returned back towards home. Going back over recently covered ground is very relaxing, and by then we had identified the best shops, pubs and mooring sites.

Apart from having a badger climb on board one night (we must have been occupying his crossing point on the canal) and being infested with flies at Cowroast, the return journey was uneventful.

We felt blest to have had such a wonderful trip. We could not have asked for better weather, better company or a better boat to carry us safely on our way. Narrowboating can be peaceful or exhilarating.

Try it sometime - there is something in it for everyone.

Christine Agnew

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It’s that time of year again !!

The St. Vaast Rally and Beyond

This will take the traditional form, aiming to be in St. Vaast by Saturday the 27th May or before …. I intend leaving on the previous Thursday (weather permitting) directly for St. Vaast, but may stop off in Cherbourg (depending how we feel !! ) Saturday is a free day, which is also the day of the Market that takes over the entire Village. Meet your friends and make your own dinner arrangements.

Sunday is the Lunch aboard the boats. This begins with drinks before a starter of oysters & prawns followed by Oak Roast Lamb carved from the bone and accompanied by Roast Chicken and Salad, then Cheeses and finally a Dessert !!!

On Monday we move on to the “Beyond”. Those that do not have to return home will have planned which way we wish to cruise. Those with Powerboats may wish to go West to take advantage of the price of fuel in the Channel Islands (see the Channel Island and French Coastal Cruise" commencing St Peter Port startling 6th June ), others may like to go East where there is always plenty of water at your destination !! The option is entirely yours.

I will always be listening on Channels 16 and 72 and have my AIS on. Looking forward to seeing you there.

Rex and others on “Rise’n’Shine too” Contact Maggie on gala@rsyc.org.uk to register your interest

RC YACHTS

Developing an alternative sailing experience Eddie Hill explains the delights of Radio Controlled Yachting

S

ailing enjoyment comes in many different forms, ultimately from AC45s, Open 60s and Super Yachts. However most of us get our enjoyment from more affordable vessels ranging from dinghies and day keel boats through to the very capable recreational/cruising yachts, many of which are also raced.

For everyone the enjoyment of sailing is the freedom, movement of the boat responding to your control, the mast tilt and acceleration as a gust takes you to windward, the art of sail trim to get the most from your

treasured possession and the sense of competition as you strive to outpace or outpoint your ‘friend’ alongside…. Wonderful experiences result - not least the gastronomic delights of foreign ports!

For some these delights may however be hampered by financial reality, personal mobility issues, ‘mal de mer’ or lack of time or crew.

Such a pity. Is the bar the only alternative? Not at all!

The RSYC has recognised the needs of this sector of our membership. Until you try it, you may not believe it, but you

can have the same sailing delights and sensations identified above by joining – free of charge – the Radio Control Section of the RSYC, sailing Internationally recognised designs at our GINS clubhouse (with its own gastronomic delights!). No upsetting motion, no feeling wet through – sail in safety from the balcony at GINS. For those that love ot race this is your starting point, and you can go on to testing your skills in the many local and UK national dedicated RC Regattas – or even sail in World Championships for these International classes.

So join the RC Section.

• We have 2 Club DF 65s that can be hired for £20 per day • We are able to supply the new DF 95 (~ 1metre loa). As displayed in the OV lobby.

• We will help you source a used RC yacht, such as the red IOM in the entrance hall at OV • We run Saturday ‘Workshops’ to help you construct and tune your RC yacht • We hold regular talks at the OV clubhouse on all matters sailing - but with an RC focus • We test sail in the Marina Pool alongside the OV clubhouse • We run informal friendly meetings based around Gins’ Sunday Carvery (a dual attraction) • We are setting up a Motorboat Group within the RC Section • We are affiliated to the National Model Yachting Association, MYA • We support local sailing events including the May 2017 Southampton Sailing Week activities • W e support the RSYC/Southampton Solent Uni teaming initiatives on Yacht Design, model yacht sailing and related talks • We welcome new members So the choice is yours - But we would love you to join us!

For more information or a demonstration contact Sailing Secretary Mark Oliver on 02380 210972 or sailing@rsyc.org.uk www.rsyc.org.uk

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SOCIAL SCENE

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SOCIAL SCENE ial Season at the RSYC Soc r nte Wi the at … ck Ba g in ok Lo in this year’s Without a doubt, as our Acting Editor commented e Ashor On the Water and and make it ‘as a Royal Club we know how to do formal well ourselves for le conso we n Seaso r Winte Club’s fun! During the ary black tie the reduction in activity on the water with legend tainment and enter ng, danci , and posh frock parties. Live music sional chefs profes our of skills the asing inventive menus showc s’. event l specia ularly partic these make Winter Social The Ocean Village Clubhouse is the focus of the Club’s mas Party, Christ a of Functions, which include our traditional events Party.

House Eve Year’s New the and Carols Round the Christmas Tree These were all voted a great success - and were quick ly followed by the Burns Night Supper, complete with the traditional Piper and Address to the Haggis. These functions are booked up well ahead as they are huge fun, and are enhanced by the pure enjoyment of celebrating with new and old friends.

But I must also mention the excellent lunch and walk at Gins Clubhouse on Dec 27th – such a good way to enjoy some exercise after all the Christmas fare. This year we were in luck with a bright blue sky, sunshine, great views across the Solent and not so much as a breath of wind to chill us.

This season there has also been keen interest in the more informal Members’ Social Events. These are headed up by day of the month the ever popular Quiz Nights on the second Thurs and Robin Bates Anton , with our three quiz masters, Rob Lamb The Steak ry.

Carve ar popul ever the ting Funnell - and not forget

and Kidney Pudding Club excelled itself this year – quite apart from its legendary suet-crust puddings - as it has been booked to capacity with 50 plus members attending regularly on the third Wednesday of the month. Thanks go to Rod Waller for providing us with a series of fascinating talks from key speakers, including Club Members with rivetin g tales to tell. What a fascinating Membership we have!

The more sailin g-focussed Club Supper Talks, which are intermittently arran ged throug hout the year, prove that we are still all fascinated by on the last Friday tales and talk of the sea. The Convivial Evenings g in touch with stayin of way ar popul a of each month have also been Just come for chat. of lots amid too ones new g makin old friends and a few drinks and perhaps stay on for supper as well. , led by highly Alongside all of this the newly formed Bridge Group y, have Oakle Jo by exper ienced player Paul Kilty, and organised taught and play bridge for oon aftern been meeting on a Wednesday Yacht ern South Royal the with links close Our ns.

‘Improver’ sessio Bridge Drive nthly bi-mo a in ed result now have Group Bridge Club between the two Clubs at OV Clubhouse. y have an Other new Activities that started up this year alread Birr Tony by led Group Car ic impressive follow ing. The Class with rs dinne for ouse Clubh e Villag Ocean at now meets regularly to Gins clubhouse. rallies car the for point g startin a as and ers speak ing as marine We are wondering whether we have as much motor Clay Pigeon the are there Then ers!

Memb hardware amon gst our regularly every meet now who ton, Framp Paul by ioned champ Shoots, bridge, Stock Farm, Down fortnight at The Spitfire Shoot, Houghton ised Organ two The ards. afterw Hart followed by lunch at the White Rugby at and Bath at t Marke mas Christ the were all by d Trips enjoye Twickenham - clearly to be repeated!

Priscilla Kilty Rear Commodore House

B

L SO A Y O U R

CHT CLU YA

MPTON A H T

Christmas Party 2016

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SOCIAL SCENE

Gins Clubhouse Opening Party in February 2017

L SO A Y O U R

CHT CL U B YA

MPTON A TH

The refurbishments at Gins have included the resurfacing of the slipway and cleaning up the dinghy park. Very smart!

e–

A note from the House Committe split into three cate Our Social activities have now been

gories so as to spread the responsibilit

ies for these across a wider team.

indiv idual hosts for each event. rdinated by the Club Secretar y but have co-o now are – ns ctio Fun al Soci • Club have indiv idual hosts for each event. now co-ordinated by Rod Waller but • Members’ Social Events - are idual hosts for each event. co-ordinated by Tony Birr but have indiv now are s Trip d nise Orga and s • Social Activitie ts to support Additionally g our Com munity has been created. Even Com modore’s Char ity and Supportin • A new post of Fundraiser for the gie Lund. these are now being organised by Mag Roast, coincide with the much anticipated Hog is a Duck Race at Gins Clubhouse to The next Com modore’s Char ity event it really is a lot of fun!) on 10th June. (Chi ldish it may be, but ld ous social activities. So if you wou bers to help with organising our vari mem al r tion Rea addi act ome cont welc do h se muc plea **** We would very are willing to do so!) to being on a Committee (or indeed mit com to wish t don’ but lved invo like to be ***** or one of the Coordinators for a chat Commodore House, Priscilla Kilty,

36

yachter Spring 2017

www.rsyc.org.uk

SOCIAL SCENE ey Pudding Club, dn Ki d an k ea St ’s YC RS of nt de esi Pr Rod Waller, lets us into the secret of its origins… generally abbreviated, The Steak & Kidney Pudding Club, Club’, is a winter season ing Pudd ‘The somewhat worr ying ly, to passionate about S&K series of events for those of us who are just like Grandma up pudding, i.e. a culinary delig ht served ‘Club’ dates back lled so-ca The g. used to make, in a suet casin ed to conv ince need bers mem of p grou ll sma a to the 1980s when wonderful his e mak to e the then Chef that it was worth his whil ng, payi each by did they h pudding to serve six of them, whic each of ay nesd Wed third the on ed serv up-front, for this to be concept that the diners winter month. This led naturally to the . However, this RSYC in were members of a select club with we now pay eventand ived surv not aspect of the tradition has kfully the 6 person by-event, like other RSYC functions. Than been passed on has e S&K puddings continue, and the recip wonderfully unchanged.* increased, after-diner As numbers attending the Pudding Club the members’ all lve invo to d nise discussion became orga s of the day topic on s view and s dote anec ping present, swap evolved into a kly quic ssion across the table. These monthly discu kers, but with spea lead the for work semi-formal debates. A lot of loosing the cially as the benefit of a competitive element, espe . With wine of e bottl a speaker needed to buy his opponent with me beco to ged chan has at form the passage of time, however, the

a question is incorporated an illustrated talk. Wherever possible, group discussion. An of ition trad the in the subject to retain nesday happened to illustrative example is from the 3rd Wed brief history of the ‘A led, be Trafalgar Day. The talk was entit cher ished than more y legac on’s Napoleonic Wars – Is Nels g points of view. estin inter some pt prom did Wellington’s?’ That t History of Talks this winter have included, ‘A Shor ire?’, ‘Building an Emp the to way Gate – s Dock Southampton igration Judge’, Imm an of Excellent University’, ‘The Making River’, ‘White lieu Beau the of re ‘The Past, Present and Futu ship at the Falk lands Ship Red Crosses’ the story of a hospital ies Behind his Hit Campaig n and ‘Bill Martin Tells the Stor month have been each ding atten Songs’. The 40 to 50 members ss of folk dline frien the l, mea the t abou very complimentary talks. If you the yed enjo attending and said how much they have that you put nd mme reco gly haven’t yet been to a meeting, I stron always are bers mem New list. et buck the Pudding Club on your which ber Octo in g you warmly welcome. I look forward to seein is when our season starts. s times a concession *(Note: In these more health consciou , and a salmon tites has been made for less hearty appe .) est… requ on alternative is available

L SO A Y O U R

CHT CL U B YA

MPTON A TH

THE MAKING OF AN IMMIGRATION

JUDGE

ratty RSYC (and RYS) Member James Han ding Pud the g ndin atte bers Mem gave Club a fascinating insight into both his interesting life and the issues from surrounding Immigration to Britain ys alwa can es the legal perspective. Jam he and , ning rtai ente be be relied upon to ! read e yabl enjo An t. prin in so is no less Quar tet Books 2016 ISBN 978070437412

www.rsyc.org.uk

6)

yachter Spring 2017

37

SOCIAL SCENE

QU: WHY DOES C STAND FOR QUIZ??

ANS: Because April 6th 2017 saw the Royal Southampton’s popular Winter Quiz reach a Century! This was the 100th Quiz evening since they started 13 years ago. again did an amazing job of coming up with questions that (usually) hit the level required by the critical audience.

Not too easy but not too difficult, not too mainstream but not too obscure, not too modern but not too classical…

It’s a tough call. Competitor feedback (I put it politely. Heckling comes into it) is of course part of the fun of the evening. Very many thanks are due to the Quizmasters for their efforts and tolerance.

Congratulations go this year to the overall winners No Eye Deer (who appear in fact to have had some idea) They finally beat persistent winners Reprobates down to second place with a bit of help from the new penalty system, which deducts one point each round from the previous champions.

L SO A Y O U R

MPTON A TH

Convivial Evenings Our Convivial Evenings, which are held at Ocean Village on the last Friday of each month, have proved to be very popular events, not least because they are a sure way of meeting old friends and hopefully making some new ones.

The idea came from idle chat between four couples on a West Country cruise some years ago that it would be nice to know there was a reliable evening when one could drop into the Club and know there would be a good crowd to have a relaxed talk and drink with. In a small local community this happens naturally.

In a large city-based Club with many members living quite far away, it was decided an element of organisation was required. So now you know - Come along on the last Friday of the month, and there will be a real buzz going on! www.rsyc.org.uk

No Eye Deer will have to work even harder next season, as the penalty-free Reprobates will no doubt be nipping at their heels Well done also to the joint third place winners – Deckadence and Sea Haze.

Make sure to use the Club’s social opportunities this summer to get your own team together. But if you don’t, you can always come along and join the scrambled team on the Club table, which tends to evolve into a more permanent team.

Remember to register yourself or your team with the office by early October and also book in with them for the Carvery if you wish to eat before the Quiz starts at 8.30pm.

See you on Thursday 12th October!

Discussions can be overheard on a wide range of topics from planning the next boating adventure to opinions on the latest electronics or those niggly engine issues. It’s always nice to be able to examine common interests with likeminded boating folk. Not to mention catching up with club and other local news and chatter - and forming plans for get-togethers of various kinds. New members are, of course, particularly welcome and often find the Convivial an easy entree to the next rally or social event.

So, if you are not already a regular, then why not come along and join us at about 6.30pm on the last Friday in the month. And if you would like to dine later at our “Convivial Supper” then please book your place with Maggie Puleston.

CHT CL U B YA

The combination of the Quiz preceded by the equally popular Thursday night Carvery has been a long-term winner at the Ocean Village clubhouse. With 15 or more teams of 6 participating every second Thursday of the month, from October to April, it has become one of number of opportunities to catch up ashore in the winter with Summer sailing buddies.

With three Quizmasters taking turns, questions are varied. As are the teams, which group and re-group each season as the sailing competitive spirit finds its winter outlet.

Rob Lamb (ably helped by wife and Past Commodore, Sue Lamb), Anton Bates and Robin Funnell (and their respective Beautiful Assistants) yet

The OV Bar awaits you…

Just a word of warning – Sailors have a tendency to be away in the peak summer months, so currently no Convivials are scheduled for July or August this year.

Bob Stevenson yachter Spring 2017

39

Hog Roast Filler This is a very popular annual event held at Gins to welcome the St Vaast cruisers on their return.

Succulent and freshly cooked English Hampshire Hog Roast & Crackling, Apple Sauce & Wholegrain Mustard Freshly cooked Baps, Stuffing and Salad followed by cold Dessert ÂŁ19.95 per head.

7 for 7.30pm Please book with Maggie on gala@rsyc.org.uk

SOCIAL SCENE

Looking Forward… to the Summer Season T

Crabbing and kite-flying are also great hits with the children – and adults too!!

Or you can just come and sit on the balcony and enjoy the ambience and vistas of the Beaulieu River our chef and staff will happily take care of you with some delicious menus including locally caught fresh fish and seafood. Also each weekend there is a Saturday Special Supper and of course the superb Sunday Lunch.

www.rsyc.org.uk

Ocean Village clubhouse is the focus of the Commodore’s Cocktail Party and Dinner at the end of July, which provides the start to the very active August Cowes Week racing and social scene ashore before the start of the Southampton Boat Show in September.

MPTON A TH

L SO A Y O U R

As a designated area of special interest the Beaulieu River is a really wonderful place for birdwatching, with great photography opportunities both on the river and ashore. And in the clubhouse there are binoculars and a range of books for researching birds, flora and fauna on the river for you to use.

Weekend of superb steaks and New Forest wild boar burgers.

Gins Clubhouse is though above all else host to our key Club Summer Functions during July that include a Round the Island ‘Champagne and Seafood Supper’ followed later by a Summer Party - think Pimms on the balcony, listening to a live band, together with strawberries and cream, men in boaters and ladies in floaty dresses. And sail or motor to Gins for a Barbecue

CHT CL U B YA

he Summer is where the Gins Clubhouse comes into its own as the go-to destination on the Beaulieu River for wonderful ‘away from it all’ week-ends. No longer just a place to berth, eat and drink at, Gins’ wonderful location can now be enjoyed more fully as an Activity Centre - from this season it is offering opportunities for kayaking, exploring the creeks along the river, and bike tours around the lovely New Forest. The Club also has several dinghies available in which you can have fun pottering around the river.

Whatever your taste or style one of our Clubhouses - Ocean Village in Southampton or Gins on the Beaulieu River - has something to offer.

Remember your On the Water and Ashore booklet has all the key Dates for the Diary. Do however also keep an eye on the regular weekly E-bulletins from House Committee for additions and updates to our social events.

Priscilla Kilty Rear Commodore House

yachter Spring 2017

41

Jonathan Terry Independent Funeral Directors and Monumental Masons

Since 1998 Jonathan Terry Independent Funeral Directors has served Southampton and its surrounding areas. The business has grown because of its reputation for excellent service and our ability to change with the times in offering new services to our community, our Christmas Remembrance Service, our new website which includes our obituaries page where donations to charities can be made online, our coffee mornings and bereavement groups and a new classic car fleet. Also a dedicated staff member to offer advice on prepaid funeral plans.

With sincere empathy and understanding, we serve your loved ones as if they were our own. Jonathan Terry established his business because of a genuine desire to give your family the personal and compassionate service needed in these difficult times. Through the dedicated service and experience of all our staff, we hope you’ll feel at home with our services.

Services we offer: Golden Charter pre paid funeral plans • Memorials for all types of graves Classic Car Fleet • Horse Drawn Hearse • Floral Tributes • Mercedes Hearse and Limousines • Greener Goodbyes We are not driven by power or a desire to become the largest funeral directors. We are inspired to succeed in providing professional and personal funeral services by maintaining our focus on family care and support.

We will always be pleased to take the necessary steps to maintain and protect our role as a truly independent funeral business.

We are proud to serve.

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email: info@jonathanterry.co.uk

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www.jonathanterry.co.uk

CLassic car GROUP

RSYC Classic Car Group RSYC’s Classic Car group has recently been formed at the instigation of House Committee Member Tony Birr.

Membership is open to all RSYC Members and their guests.

You don’t have to own a classic car! Just as you don’t have to own a boat to join RSYC. What you do need is to have an interest in boats and boating and to enjoy the company of others who also do. And it’s the same with Classic cars.

However if you want to join the RSYC Classic Car Group as an owner, and to take part in our Rallies and Vehicle Displays your vehicle should either be registered on or before 1st Jan 1992 or be of any age but ‘of special interest.

Or both, of course! ‘Special interest’ examples include replicas, high performance sports cars, vehicles of historic interest, or just simply rare or unusual.

Motor cycles fitting the same criteria are also welcome.

www.rsyc.org.uk

No sooner had the successful and well attended launch meeting taken place than the services of one of the group was called upon. “Can you find someone with a classic car for a Royal duty?’ Howard Seymour responded to the call to transport our Club Admiral, HRH Prince Michael of Kent, from the station to the Ocean village Clubhouse for lunch.

A great way to start off the group!

The first Dinner event, on 23rd March 2017, raised funds for the National Motor Museum and also for the renovation of the engine of a 1927 Land Speed Record Sunbeam 1000hp nicknamed ‘The Slug’.

The very interesting Guest speakers were Sarah Crofts and Barry Young. Sarah gave an excellent presentation on Women in Motorsport from the 1880s to 1970.

Her passion for motoring stems from a family-run business. Little did she realise how her interest in motorsport and social history, particularly women’s changing roles

over the years, would inspire her in the future. Barry matched her with a fascinating talk on the pre-war years of the Le Mans 24 Hours, focussing on British success and looking at some of the ‘forgotten’ British drivers from that era.

Tony and Heather Birr and their Cobra

The next event was a Drive Out Day to the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu, where the Group had reserved the central display area to show our vehicles, and members enjoyed the Museum and the many amenities This was followed by a short drive to the RSYC Gins clubhouse on the Beaulieu River for dinner.

Forthcoming events include an evening drive out to a pub in the Meon Valley on 6th July followed on 6th August by a Goodwood drive out day and picnic. Look out for more information in the E-bulletins on the Noticeboards.

Contact Tony Birr for more information on any of the above birrs@btinternet.com

yachter Spring 2017

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RYA Training Days 2017 CHT CLU YA

YAL SO U RO

AMPTON TH

Royal Southampton Yacht Club

B

KEY:

RYA Theory & Dinghy Powerboat Shorebased Courses Sailing Courses Course

Venue

£ £ Non Member Member

Day

Date

Age

Thu

1 June

Cadets at Gins (day 1 of 2)

Gins

8 - 16

85

99

Fr

2 June

Cadets at Gins (day 2 of 2)

Gins

8 - 16

~

~

Fri

2 June

Evening Dinghy Sailing

Gins

All

5

7.50

Sat

10 June

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 1)

Ocean Village

14+

225

255

Sun

11 June

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 2)

Ocean Village

14+

~

~

Fri

16 June

Evening Dinghy Sailing

Gins

All

5

7.50

Sat

24 June

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 1)

Ocean Village

14+

225

255

Sun

25 June

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 2)

Ocean Village

14+

~

~

Fri

30 June

Evening Dinghy Sailing

Gins

All

5

7.50

Sat

1 July

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 1)

Ocean Village

14+

225

255

Sun

2 July

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 2)

Ocean Village

14+

~

~

Thu

27 July

Cadets at Gins (day 1 of 2)

Gins

8 - 16

85

99

Fri

28 July

Cadets at Gins (day 2 of 2)

Gins

8 - 16

~

~

Fri

28 July

Evening Dinghy Sailing

Gins

All

5

7.50

Sat

12 Aug

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 1)

Ocean Village

14+

225

255

Sun

13 Aug

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 2)

Ocean Village

14+

~

~

Thu

17 Aug

Cadets at Gins (day 1 of 2)

Gins

8 - 16

85

99

Fri

18 Aug

Cadets at Gins (day 2 of 2)

Gins

8 - 16

~

~

Sat

2 Sept

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 1)

Ocean Village

14+

225

255

Sun

3 Sept

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 2)

Ocean Village

14+

~

~

Sun

3 Sept

RYA Radar Course

Ocean Village

16+

90

100

Sun

1 Oct

RYA First Aid at Sea

Ocean Village

14+

85

95

Sat

7 Oct

RYA VHF/GMDSS Radio Course

Ocean Village

16+

165

180

Sun

8 Oct

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (1 of 6)

Ocean Village

14+

255

295

Sun

15 Oct

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (2 of 6) Ocean Village

14+

255

295

Sun

22 Oct

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (3 of 6)

Ocean Village

14+

255

295

Sun

29 Oct

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (4 of 6)

Ocean Village

14+

255

295

Sun

5 Nov

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (5 of 6)

Ocean Village

14+

255

295

Sun

5 Nov

Laying up

Gins

Sun

12 Nov

RYA Yachtmaster Theory (6 of 6)

Ocean Village

14+

255

295

Sat

25 Nov

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 1)

Ocean Village

14+

225

255

Sun

26 Nov

RYA Powerboat Level II (day 2)

Ocean Village

14+

~

~

To book on a course, please download a booking form from the Training Section of the RSYC website www.rsyc.org.uk and complete and return to Charlie Coleman – Email charlie@rsyc.org.uk www.rsyc.org.uk

yachter Spring 2017

45

radar training RSYC is offering a new advanced training programme on using Radar more fully and effectively

Enhancing Safety at Sea

Improve your ‘Situation Awareness’ with the RSYC Optimise the use of your ‘seventh sense’ inputs!

The International Collision Regulations These are designed to keep you and others safe whilst navigating the seas and oceans of the world.

A range of RYA courses teaches us how to conform to and abide by these regulations. The RSYC routinely runs these courses.

Situation Awareness However ‘awareness’ is a crucial prerequisite to the taking of any action to enhance safety at sea.

If you increase the awareness of the situation you find yourself in, then the quality and effectiveness of your subsequent actions will be enhanced.

We become ‘aware’ via the sensory inputs that our body provides to our brain. Our brain interprets these inputs and combines them with our knowledge base to enable any actions required to be taken to enhance our safety.

The Old Sea Salts of the past built up their knowledge base via real life experiences and anecdotes passed down to them. They used their five sensory inputs, particularly sight, sound and feeling for their situation awareness. Keeping a good lookout, clouds over the land, sensing the wind direction on their cheeks, hearing the sound of the wind in the rigging and the sound and direction of the surf as it breaks onto the shore or reef.

The ‘feel’ of the wheel or tiller in a gust, this feel is also the sensory input to adjust the sails to balance

www.rsyc.org.uk

the boat. They even used to smell land or rain to windward. Some even claim a ‘sixth sense’ which could have been the product of the brain ‘fusing’ a number of low quality sensory inputs to provide an enhanced sensory output, a ‘feeling’ not directly related to a single sensor input?

Today we have a range of modern technology derived sensory inputs, our ‘seventh sense’ inputs. These either output directly to us via a visual display or via audio sound such as alarms, thereby adding to our situation awareness. Others are combined in a ‘processor’ to provide a higher level of sensory input such as VMG, AIS alarm and bearing to waypoint.

Enhancing our Situation Awareness These modern technologies are unfortunately limited by the restricted understanding of the person operating them.

In particular the true safety value of these seventh sense inputs is often underestimated, and also their usefulness is often perceived as being limited to the selling feature, such as ‘It (Radar) sees ships in fog’.

In reality ‘It’ also measures distance very accurately, which is useful at night to complement the eye.

‘It’ also detects distant rain, where there is often more wind.

The RYA Basic Radar Course, as run by the RSYC, covers such additional benefits and also

the complementary nature of AIS (Automatic Identification System). Also the optional RSYC Radar Course Plus builds upon the Basic Radar Course; it is a practical dynamic radar workshop, conducted on a yacht, with real modern radar and displays.

The other limiting factor for users of this technology is that how to optimise the integration and display of these seventh sensory inputs tends to be shrouded in ‘interconnection technology magic’ only fully understood by a few.

Following instructions to connect together sensors and display equipment requires understanding of confusing terms such as external data buses/protocols/messages NMEA, Ethernet, RS232, WiFi etc.

The RSYC accordingly is proposing to run workshops for interested Skippers (and others) clarifying these installation and operational processes and terminology, subject to interest from the membership.

So please register any interest that you may have in such technology workshops with either of the club staff below Sailing Secretary (Mark Oliver) Email: sailing@rsyc.org.uk Phone: 02380 21087C Training Secretary (Charlie Coleman) Email: charlie@rsyc.org.uk Phone: 02380 210875

yachter Spring 2017

47

LOG AND photo contest

Photographic and Cruising Diary Competition 2017 W

ith this edition of the Yachter the Royal Southampton launches its Photographic and Cruising Diary competition for 2017 — this is your opportunity for you to showcase your photographic skills as well as to share special cruising experiences with other members.

All members of the Royal Southampton Yacht Club may enter the Photographic and Cruising Diary competition, through which we hope to reflect the atmosphere and activity of the Club. The aim is to capture the spectacle of all aspects of sailing activity on the water, the atmosphere of social events and other activities on shore and at the clubhouses, or simply the Club and its many personalities, both at Ocean Village and Gins. It doesn’t matter whether you use an expensive camera, a straightforward 48

yachter Spring 2017

point-and-shoot pocket one, or your mobile phone.

The three photo categories are ‘On the Water’, ‘Ashore’ and ‘Personalities’ Interpret the themes as widely as you like.

Pictures taken on water or land do not necessarily need to feature dinghies, boats, motor cruisers or yachts – neither do they have to be taken in Solent waters.

As a separate competition, cruisers are invited to submit a Cruise Diary — an illustrated account of one of the club rallies or of a cruising venture. Contributions to the Yachter or club website about members’ experiences on cruising events or longer distance sailing will automatically be entered for the diary competition (and any photos submitted for publication to the photo competition, similarly)

Photo Competition categories On the water Club activities ashore Club personalities

Both competitions will run throughout the Spring, Summer and Autumn and will close on Sunday, October 29. Winners will be announced at the Cruisers’ Laying Up Supper on Saturday, November 18. Winners in each category will receive a prize and an overall winner will be selected by the judges to receive an additional prize.

The competition will be judged by the Commodore, the Club Editor and an independent guest judge.

Their decision will be final and no correspondence will be entered into. There is no entry fee, so just complete an entry form (available at www.rsyc.org.uk or from the Club office) and send to rsyc@rsyc.org.uk (Attn Editor) And remember to take your camera with you when you are out and about! www.rsyc.org.uk

LOG AND photo contest

THE RULES 1. T his competition is organised by the Royal Southampton Yacht Club and is open to all categories of members including cadets and associates.

2. M embers may enter a maximum of three entries per person in each category.

3. P hotographs can be colour or black and white, and may be submitted on photo quality paper or as a digital jpeg file. These can be submitted by email to rsyc@mac.com or on CD or computer memory stick to the Club office at Ocean Village.

4. I mages which have been digitally manipulated, other than straightforward enhancement, are not permitted.

5. T he following details must be attached to each entry. Photographers name and contact details / when and where taken / title (if appropriate).

6. W hen people are photographed for personality pictures please get their

permission, and when children are photographed you should submit written permission of the parent or guardian with your entry.

7. T he copyright of all entries will remain with the photographer, but all entries may be added to the Club’s photo database and may be used in Club publications, publicity and/or online.

8. E ditorial cruising contributions, accompanied by photographs, for the Yachter and the Club website at www.rsyc.org.uk will automatically be entered for the competition.

9. The RSYC takes no responsibility for entries mislaid or damaged in the post, nor undertakes to return images to those participating in the competition.

10. A ll entries to be submitted to the Club Editor at Ocean Village.

11. C losing date for entries is Sunday, October 29. Winners will be announced at the Cruisers’ Laying Up Supper on Saturday, November 18.

Photos: 2016 Winners On the Water: DORSET MIST

by John Mathias (top) Ashore: THE OTHER FOLLY

by Martin Alexander (opposite page) Personalities: COILED SPRINGS

by Kirsteen Donaldson (left) Cruising Log: A DIFFERENT KIND OF BOATING – Christine Agnew (Pages 29 to 31)

www.rsyc.org.uk

yachter Spring 2017

49

COWES CLUB NEWS WEEK Congratulations to Gordon and Christine!

C

hristine and Past Commodore Gordon Agnew hosted a lavish party for family and friends at the Ocean Village clubhouse on 18th March to celebrate their Golden Wedding - 50 happy years of marriage with the last twenty as very active Club Members, living in Ocean Village.

Music by Teddy Mathias got everyone dancing – which included, of course, the Gay Gordons!

RYA Honours Rex Woodgate

M

any congratulations to long term stalwart RSYC Member Rex Woodgate, who received a Lifetime Commitment Community Award from the Royal Yachting Association at a ceremony at the RYA’s Westminster HQ last November. Over his lifetime Rex has made a huge contribution to yachting, within and beyond our Club.

We are sorry to advise of the recent deaths of the following RSYC Members – Rosemary Webb Rosemary Webb died in September after some weeks in hospital with lung infection problems. Tragically, plans were in place for returning to her home and new boat when her heart failed unexpectedly. She had been

50

a Club member since moving to Hythe Marina with her husband in 2000 and enjoyed boating, especially when it was tied up!

Health reasons had forced the change to power but sadly she was unable to take full advantage of the boat she chose. She is badly missed by family and friends.

David Jackson

Veronica Roddis

– A Club Member since 1999

– A Club Member since 2001

yachter Spring 2017

We offer our condolences to their families and friends

www.rsyc.org.uk

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