Commodore’s Report Winter 2015

The 63rd Helford to L’Aber Wrac’h race was held on 28th June 2024. There were 23 yachts entered, 5 French and 18 English, taking on the challenge of the Channel crossing. Three yachts took the decision not to start so 21 yachts crossed the line with a good westerly breeze. Unfortunately the wind died at dusk and did not return so no yachts were able to finish the race before the time limit was up. 14 yachts used their ‘Iron topsails’ to reach L’Aber Wrac’h in time for the reception at Yacht Club des Abers.

Rob Hewett gave a speech en francais. He said:

‘It is always difficult to manage the race when there is no wind, and too much wind. Sometimes entrants are not happy with their handicap or ask that we change how the race is run. But we must remember that historically one of the reasons for the race is to assist those who wish to cross the Channel for the first time. This was exactly the case for one of the entrants, Coral Carona, this year and they were very happy. Perfect!’

It has refreshed the spirit of the race, to encourage people to cross the Channel in company.

One prize was presented, The Marie-Jo trophy, to the youngest competitor in the race. This was presented to Jeanne Caraes, who took part with her father and grandfather on Calypso. Four generations of the Caraes family have now taken part in this race.

We were also pleased to welcome the COGS (Cornwall Offshore Group Sailing) Yachts to join the HRSC Helford to L’Aber Wrac’h race this year and hope they will return next year.

The race was preceded by an excellent Champagne recovery party, at HRSC, with great music by The Stowes and a tasty bar-b-que by the Club caterers. Thanks must go to the YCA for the Race reception, the port of L’Aber Wrac’h, and Daniel Dagorn for the YCA Reception photographs. Also to Rob Hewett, Anthony Jenkin and Johnny Walker, those who manned the Start line, and those who arranged and helped with a great Champagne reception.

With the new regulations underway today I am pleased to announce that we can now allow people inside the clubhouse.

To book a table please email [email protected] or call 01326 231460

It is with sadness that we report the passing of past Commodore Adrian Miller on 1st February. Although suffering from a long term illness he was ultimately a victim of the Covid 19 pandemic. 

Adrian served as Commodore from 1998 until 2001, having previously served as Secretary and Vice Commodore.

During his first year he oversaw the club’s 50th Anniversary celebrations. The highlight was the Jubilee Regatta on the 6th June with races for allcomers. To compliment the celebrations Adrian produced the booklet “Helford River Sailing Club The first fifty years”, a general history of the club and clubhouse.

His second year saw the 40th anniversary of the annual race to L’Aber Wrac’h with over sixty boats taking part.

During his third year Adrian was instrumental in setting up the Charter of Friendship with L’Aber Wrac’h and Landeda. Copies of this Charter hang on the wall of the club and the wall of the Hotel de Ville in Landeda.

Adrian’s lasting legacy was at the time less noticeable, but has stood the test of time. He was keen to see the sailing facilities at the club improved and Adrian did a substantial amount of the groundwork and behind the scenes negotiations that resulted in the planning application for the dinghy park extension and the pontoons that we all enjoy today.

The club extends its sincerest condolences to his wife Pam and the rest of his family.

Rob Hewett – Trustee

The Commodore and Committee would like to say a big ‘THANK YOU’ to everyone who gave up their time to make yesterday’s Regatta Day so successful.

Those who contributed to the teas or helped to prepare, serve and clear them up.  Those who drove the liberty boats to bring the racing crews to and from their boats.  Those who put up and took down the marquee.  Those who helped out with Regatta administration.

In fact everyone who was involved.

We do appreciate your help – thank you.