"What's Happening on the Water"

Two of our young sailors were racing at South Shields Sailing Club representing CSC for the 1^st of the World and European Qualifier Events for the Laser Standard and Laser Radial Fleets. Drew Barnes came 15th overall in the bronze fleet sailing a Laser Radial, and Jack Acton came 4^th in the silver fleet sailing a Standard Laser. Both are looking to improve in the next qualifying event.

A big thank you to all those who got out of bed last Sunday to compete in the Harbour Interclub Challenge in races 3 & 4 of the series. We are still lying second overall but have closed the gap on Mudeford SC considerably, with Highcliffe SC third. We have to get out there on the morning of the 7^th October for the last two races. It is important that we have as many dinghies of all types out there if we are going to achieve first place again. Best on the day was Mads Fry who achieved a 4^th in the first race in her Optimist, so let's see Scows, Mirror's, anything that sails to achieve first overall in the last two races. (Harbour Interclub latest standings attached)

The Autumn Series (5) racing for all classes scheduled for 10.30 on Sunday 7^th October, will now be calculated in conjunction with the first race of the Interclub Series, as was the case on Sunday 9^th September.

Capers have racing this Wednesday morning with plenty of water for their race at 10.30. Right in the middle of springs, and with the weather holding one would expect a good turn out with only three races left this season.

The "Ladies Cup Race" on Saturday last, confused a number of our younger sailors as they thought it was open to ladies only. Here is the historical fact: Many years ago, even when I was young, the Ladies of the club put up a Cup for the men to race for in the morning. Once the race was over the men would dress suitably in blazer and club tie to escort the ladies who arrived in their finest luncheon wear to enjoy what was known as the "Club Luncheon." This was organized by the Social Committee, the menu was always Salmon locally caught by Chubb Keynes, with a three course luncheon finished off with Brandy, Port and other such digesters of the day.

This year's "Ladies Cup" was won by Chris Arnell, with Ela Miller in 4^th position, who wins a Trophy for the first Lady to finish in the race.

This Saturday and Sunday sees Autumn Series 4 for all classes

I hope to see you on the water when Rover makes me a new Rudder !!

Stuart Percival Sailing Secretary stuart@percivalpace.com