by David McClellan — East Coast Secretary

RIVER COLNE 10-11 May

This is not a popular venue so I think I’ll drop it next year. For the second time Wellington was the only boat there. Stanley Dean attended for Saturday evening arriving by rowing boat. The wind was moderate on the Saturday but distinctly fresh on Sunday. Wellington planed non stop for 3 hours, quite a thrilling sail. It wasn’t until we beached the boat for afternoon tea that we realised just how windy it was. The Blackwater was white, the racing had been cancelled and the coastguard seemed anxious. However, Wellington behaved extremely well and eventually we returned to Maldon under jib alone, quietly and in no danger.

PAGLESHAM River Roach 7-8 June

This was a very good rally. Five boats attended, Wellington (David McClellan), Shoal Waters (Charles Stock), Rebell (Eric Coleman), Gypsy (Evan Gotto) and Compleano (Stuart Dunlop). Every boat had covered in excess of 30 miles to make the venue. Charles Stock had come from Maldon via the isle of Sheppey, Evan Gotto had sailed from Harwich, Eric Coleman from Maldon and Stuart Dunlop and myself had sailed from Hullbridge on the River Crouch down to the Whitaker Beacon then south and in to the Roach via the Havengore Bridge. We arrived a little late but it was a superb sail. Breakfast was provided by Joy Stock whilst some running repairs were made to the rudder of Compleano. High water at around 0900 was the signal for the boats to disperse and make tracks for home.

GOLDHANGER CREEK 5-6 July

Another successful rally. Wellington, Gypsy and Shoal Waters attended together with Baggywrinkle (Tony Galvin). The attractions of the local couldn’t be resisted which made a very pleasant evening. Unfortunately the mud in Goldhanger Creek has a rather nasty odour but apart from that it’s a pleasant spot to spend the night, providing easy and clean landing around High Water. The boats dispersed on the morning tide.

Many thanks to all those who attended the rallies. I know that for some members it’s a tremendous effort requiring very careful organisation. And my thanks to Stanley Dean and John Perry, who attended the Goldhanger rally by car, being unable to launch their boats for the weekend.

Perhaps we’ll see more of you next year.

Happy Sailing!