March

2000

As we begin the new Millennium, great things are afoot (or should that be ametre).  The club has set its course on 'Volvo RYA Champion Club' status.  This will involve a great deal of planning and effort but is the best way forward and increase our chances of receiving a grant.

Primary aspects of our application will be our plan for the growth of the club and this particularly involves new members, especially junior members.  Anyone who would like more information or who would like to assist should contact David Burke.

Another part of improving our club is the annual March "Working Parties".  Again whipped into shape by Colin Hesketh, they have really excelled this year.  Of special note are the new generator, new boiler and refurbished electrics.  If you weren't there, remember to thank someone who was, next time that you're well-fed after a warm shower and in brightly lit surroundings. 

Dragon Pursuit 

This year's Dragon Pursuit is on April 16.  See page 3 for details of why YOU should be there.

Training day - What's stopping you racing ? Maybe you don't enjoy racing or maybe you've never tried.  If it's the latter, then the "Introduction to Club Racing" Training Day on May 13 could be just the thing for you.

Committee Room - we need your opinions, your fund-raising and your general assistance as we plan the future of GDSC.  A summary of recent committee discussions is on page 4

Our Sailing Captain speaks - in a shock move, the sailing committee have introduced a novel Sunday race format : we will start with a pursuit ! See page 2 for details.

Junior Training - last year's success story. Update and Fennel Trophy report on the back page.  This year we want to open our junior training to non-members and use it to encourage youngsters into the sport. 

New Committee - A new committee has been sworn-in.  In this issue, a souvenir gallery for you to cut-out-and-keep.

This year, we host not ONE, not TWO but THREE major events.  In addition to the Dragon Pursuit, we have been selected to host the Comet Nationals in April and the Javelin Nationals in August.  This is on top of the Club's usual Class Opens and local trophies.

If you're not competing in them, please support your club by coming along to helping out or even just to spectate.

The course will cover : preparing and launching a safety boat, low & high speed manoeuvring and assisting sailors (dinghies and windsurfers).  It's designed for anyone who has not already completed an RYA level 2 Powerboat course.

Senior Instructor - Congratulations to Roger Tolman, who has qualified as an RYA Senior Instructor.  It must have been tough as we hear that only 5 instructors out of 13 were passed .

Shock late news - Diary cards and handbooks ready at the start of the season ! - as you read this you should also have received by post your Sailing Diary.  Handbooks will be at the club for you to collect.