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L’Aber Wrac’h 2017

This year’s race got off in fine style on Saturday following a 24 hour postponement due to poor weather conditions. The delay meant the loss of some entrants owing to work commitments but on the day 16 boats started. The French contingent made the running but that old campaigner, Wally Royall (in his 90th year) was the first Helford boat to cross the line – congratulations Wally!

I would like to express my gratitude to a number of people who make this event such a success every year, and I apologise if I have left anyone out. Rob Hewett very kindly agreed to act as chair of the race committee and bring things together but unfortunately could not commit to the delayed race. Carol Lawrence for her ingenuity around the prize giving and for managing the L’Aber Wrac’h end recording and relaying the results. Anthony Jenkin, Race Officer, who made the sensible decision to delay the race and liaising with HM Coastguard. Particular thanks go to Paul Randall (Adult Sailing) who agreed at the last minute to man the start line which is a vital element in the safe conduct of the race.

The delay meant that there was a greater presence than ever of our French friends in the Clubhouse and Ben and his team did a fantastic job of making them feel welcome which culminated in a very successful and well attended Champagne Reception. Our social team of ladies led by Suzanne Smith and Angie Watson did a sterling job of keeping the Champers and Pimms flowing and the night progressed into the early hours. What not many of those revellers were aware of is the work that goes on in the Office. Our Handicap Committee of Wally Royall, Terry Pascoe, and Ian Wort scrutinise the entries and deliberate over handicaps. I was particularly impressed that three young men, namely Tom Lake, Olly Berryman and Ed Bolitho attended and shadowed the handicapping process – thank you gents. Sue Hewett, as always, was present to input the entries into a spread sheet. Our own Penny McGovern was of great assistance with her skills in French.

Thank you to everyone who supported the weekend and I hope you all had fun.

Finally I know that Mark Buckley would have wished to attend the Reception but he was called in early for his treatment, which I understand is proceeding well. I hope you will all join with me in wishing Mark all the best.

Regards
Clive Dudley
Rear Commodore Sailing

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