Vice Commodore’s Report
If the first weekend of Spring is any indication, it looks like we are in for some fantastic sailing days ahead. The weekend saw RBYC boats competing in one design, OTB sailing and in the final race of the ORCV Discount Yachting Winter Series. In the latter, 36 yachts started in the race to Blairgowrie but the race was shortened at Mornington with two RBYC boats, Serious Yahoo and Another Chapter, finishing 2nd and 3rd respectively in the AMS division and Serious Yahoo winning the PHS division.
Elsewhere, RBYC sailors have been very active over the winter, sailing in Club keelboat, OTB and one-design events, braving the Bay each fortnight in the ORCV Discount Yachting Winter Series and racing and/or cruising at all points of the globe, including Finland, Iceland, Europe, the Pacific, the Med, Asia, the US East Coast and more recently in the three Whitsunday regattas. Undoubtedly there will be many stories told around these adventures and hopefully, some will be shared at the monthly dinners. This month, on September 15th, we have Rear Commodore Peter Gebhardt presenting on diving in the Indonesian Archipelago. Last month, Peter and Allison enjoyed a scuba diving trip to East Kalimantan. Peter will present highlights from this trip, along with other diving destinations they have visited in Indonesia in earlier years.
The opening of the 149th season at RBYC is just over 4 weeks away and the 2023-2024 season will soon be in full swing. RBYC Calendars for all classes for the coming season are now available and these have been simplified to allow for better planning for future events. There is something for everyone, from racing at all levels to fun-filled twilight racing, or leisurely cruising events. All Skippers are encouraged to attend the Skippers’ Briefing on either the 6th or 13th of September where the Sailing Office will provide all the information you need to know for the upcoming season. If you need crew or are looking for a ride, please see the Sailing Office who will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.
Wishing you fair winds and following seas and remember no bananas at sea.
Vice Commodore
Peter Demura