Hello readers! Sunday saw the next two races of the series take place in a fairly light F1-2 wind. Ten racers turned up, including a competitor whose come down early for Coppet Week and decided to make a holiday out of it. In preparation for Coppet Week, the crews running the race wanted to test out their new-fangled GPS technology to set the course and the water start. They were very nervous that it might not work, however they did a great job and set the course up very successfully. As racing began, it was lovely to see those with spinnakers flying their kites in the gentle breeze, which makes an impressive sight! The first race was not very exciting this week due to a lack of wind, however all boats finished the race with Ed in the RS100 coming first, Paul and Julia in the RS200 in second and Rosie in her Laser Radial in third. The wind dropped off even more for the second race so the competitors only did one lap. This time, Paul and Julia were first, Ed was second and Rosie was third. Well done to all racers and thanks as ever due to John, Nina, Maurice, Keith, Steve C and Paul on OOD and safety cover.

On Thursday, May 17, club member Harry Hinksman went to Buckingham Palace to collect his gold DofE Award. His award was presented to him by Carrie Grant from The One Show and Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex. For those of you who don’t know what it is about, the DofE scheme is an award open to people aged 14-24, and can be completed through school, college or youth clubs. To get the award, participants must complete four sections; physical, volunteering, skills and expedition. There are bronze, silver and gold awards, all of which Harry has completed. Harry used sailing for his physical section and was signed off by Jo Musson in the year he was Silver Fleet champion. To achieve this award takes a vast amount of dedication, perseverance and commitment, so a huge congratulations goes to Harry on achieving this prestigious award!

Preparations for Coppet Week are well underway. With five fun days of sailing planned (with hopefully more wind than we’ve seen so far this season!) and social events in the evening, the week is sure to be a resounding success. There are still a few more slots in the bar rota that need filling so if you are available to help, please get in contact with Nina.

Also over the May hal- term, the rowers are heading off to compete in the Ocean to City race in Cork, Ireland. There is a choice of four distances, the longest being 28km! The event attracts over 600 rowers and paddlers in a variety of vessels, ranging from skiffs to longboats to stand up paddle boards! They are sure to have an incredible time and I wish them them the best of luck in the race!

And finally, the Strollers are due to be out on the water for the first time with some experienced rowers from the club for an introduction to sea rowing. They have impressed us over the winter months with their fitness and are sure to do the same on the water!

No club racing next week, as Coppet Week begins on Sunday! Feel free to come and watch from the beach, as when the boats get out onto the water it is a spectacular sight, even from a distance! All races times can be found on the SSC website in the ‘Coppet Week’ section. See you there!

Gypsea Girl