End of Season Rally

We couldn't have asked for better weather for our Christchurch end of season rally. I didn't count the number of sailors, but there must have been nearly 100 sailors coming over from Christchurch in 40 plus boats. 

We certainly managed our usual sinking of the pontoon at the Friday night pontoon party. On Saturday morning, groups of people took advantage of the good weather with some going off on the bus, others cycling and walking around the Island. A good number met at The Red Lion in Freshwater for vitals before walking/cycling back to Yarmouth. After the Saturday night pontoon party, 52 people headed to The Royal Solent Yacht Club for the booked meal. People were very complementary of the quality, the value of the meal, as well as the service they had at the Royal Solent. One person said of the 3 meals that they had over the weekend, The Royal Solent was the best. Others who had opted not to join us had booked into various other restaurants and local hostelries where I heard, there could be dancing on the table, or had meals onboard their boats. 

Keith Ganter had 11 boats signed up for the passage race home that was starting at 12-30pm. There was a mass exodus from Yarmouth marina at around 12pm. Sailors not planning to race headed back to Christchurch or other places in the Solent. I think I can say most of us had a good sail back. 

Phil Whiston had sent a message saying he would run a taxi service for those who went straight to their mooring which eased congestion on the pontoon & wall. 

So, two definite dates for next year's diary are Martin & Hills Shake Down Rally. Because Easter is early next year, it isn't until after Easter on 11th April to 15th April 2024 & the Last Rally of the season is 3rd October till 6th October 2024, both at Yarmouth.