There was almost a sense of surprise as Saturday morning dawned cloudy with a steady moderate breeze. For, I think the first time this year, no rain or tempest! The 9.30 briefing was greeted with approval as Lisa outlined the course. The first race saw Paul Howes test the limits of the navigation and go aground some way out of the marked channel, but finished without any more drama and the fleet returned to Goodchild’s excellent moorings.

The afternoon race was largely uneventful and once again the fleet headed back to the moorings afterwards. With most of the fleet tied up, Anna approached sailing under jib alone with Bob on the foredeck calling out for assistance…….. “The engine is broken………we are real sailors.”

Safely tied up most of the fleet retired to the Fisherman’s Inn for refreshments.

9.30 on Sunday morning and rather light winds. Start times had been requested in advance and some were regretting their nomination. First to set off was Melinda at 11 o’clock, followed by Morning Calm at 11.10. The fleet had been joined by the spectacular number 48, Sparklet. Newly rebuilt and looking immaculate, she was one of the later starters but made light work of the course, taking home not only the Reedham Greyhound Trophy for fastest elapsed, but also winning on corrected time. Melinda was the only boat to beat the turn of the tide and initially pushed water after the turning mark. Sabrina 2 was one of the later starters and her race was set back by time lost aground.

With the best weather of this year, the old guard was struggling. The weekend was dominated by Harrier and Skylark, with the latter taking all of the remaining trophies, apart from that for the slower boats, which was won by Morning Calm. Both Harrier and Skylark were sailed by young crews, showing that the river cruiser class is in good hands.

Many thanks to Lisa, who stood in for Margaret at the last minute and did a sterling job; also Chris for the loan of Egret as a committee boat, Brian and Michelle, and Sue and Robin who manned the rescue boats and Goodchild Marine who loaned us their excellent facilities. Particular thanks to Julia who not only managed all the bankside work, but also sold raffle tickets and guided my part single handed.

Most of all thanks to all who took part and made this YSC event such a success.

See you all next year.

Bill Clark, Commodore