Weymouth
Sailing
Club

Many things remain unexplained in our world, and this moment in the year has offered an interesting example to the superstitious (and who is more superstitious than a sailor?)

The YOBs AGM was held on 13 October and was very well attended. A review of the season’s activities was given by Steve Staple and a lively discussion followed. The condition of the equipment was discussed and it was decided to investigate replacing or repairing certain items in readiness of the new season. It was noted that the numbers for YOBs continues to increase which was welcomed. This in turn has boosted participation by the YOBs in Club racing.

At this time of year dawn is late at sea, and dusk seems to start around teatime; it seemed a good idea to return from Cherbourg via Alderney, in order to get some cheap diesel for what promised to be a long motorsail back to Weymouth.

It was fantastic to see so many dinghies out last Saturday. The usual suspects were joined by a number of YOBs in Fevas, a laser, a Wayfarer and an Osprey. For some of them it was their first club race and it was a bit of a shock to have so many boats on the start line jostling for space.

The weather was lovely with a warm South Westerly breeze although a bit more wind would not have gone amiss.

With the forecast predicting strong winds from the west on Saturday, and with a lighter, more variable wind in the northern sector for Sunday, it was time to consult the almanac for tidal streams and tide times. Anyone who has sailed east from Weymouth will know the two key areas are St Alban's Head and the Needle's Channel. In a regular cruising boat it is futile to fight the tide, but time it right and you get a free ride!

We had decided to enter the South Coast Championships hosted by Portsmouth Sailing Club, a friendly volunteer-run club in the heart of Old Portsmouth. We had done the event a few years ago and had a super time. However, then we travelled there the conventional way, via the A31 !

It started out as a quick trip to Lulworth Cove, but with such wonderful sailing conditions and a favorable tide, it would have been a crime to not go further.

Please note Weymouth Harbour Notice to Mariners No. 25/22 regarding maintenance work on the Town Bridge.

"Mariners are advised that from 26th September 2022 and anticipated until 30th November 2022, maintenance work will be conducted on the Town Bridge. This work is scheduled for Mon – Fri but could include some Saturdays as work progresses. While this work is being conducted there will only be three lifts per day Monday to Friday."

The Golby Cup was held in beautiful conditions with a shifty northly wind last Saturday.
A total of twelve boats took part in two back to back races.
It was all about reading the shifts on the first beat.The first race was won by Phil and Ali Ashworth in their squib Hussy, while the second race was won by Gavin Poulloin is his OK dinghy.
However the overall winner of the Golby Cup was Simon and Jill Vines in their Squib Hope.

Thanks to rib crew John Tonks we have videos of both starts.

https://youtu.be/lk9yVVjSz1shttps

https://youtu.be/rGqOMhYtqrE

Mark Bugler RO

I will be OD for the Golby Cup on Saturday which consists of two back to back races for Squibs and dinghies. There will be meal at the club afterwards for competitors and fellow members from 6.30 onwards. Booking and menu choices can be found via the What's On website page.