Newsletter. Spring 2008
Winter work
By the time this newsletter is uploaded the sailing season will be well under way. Many thanks to all the people who supported the winter social events, they were a great success. It is hoped that this enthusiasm will be replicated on the water.

Winter work was nearly as well supported. The quay heading has been improved, the dinghy park cleared, the trees on the downriver south bank removed, steps have been made to the men's changing room, disabled access has been improved and new furniture purchased for the Club room. Various other essential tasks have been completed or are still ongoing.

The committee would like to thank all the members who gave huge amounts of their time, expertise, blood sweat and toil to improving the Club.

A special "thank you" to all our younger members for helping so enthusiastically.

Phantom Open
This year our Phantom Open Meeting will take place on 26th and 27th of April. There will be two races on Saturday and three or four on Sunday. This is an ideal opportunity for members to come and watch these high performance single handers in action.

Sail Training
There is a possibility that partial funding may be available for a small number of people to undertake some form of RYA courses. For more details please contact Simon Cullum.01508 471210.

Club Racing
For the first time in the Club's history a sub committee has been formed to look at various aspects of racing. Their remit is to facilitate equitable racing. They will evaluate handicaps using the RYA Number Adjustment Scheme; assess the feasibility of 'average lap racing' and monitor results during the season.

Are you "doing your bit"?
Please remember that in order to run the Club smoothly we rely on volunteers. If you are a member it is anticipated that you may like to help. Even if you don't sail regularly there are still many ways in which you can do this. The starter's box, safety boats and galley all need to be manned. Every Sunday experienced people are on hand and happy to give help and advice if needed.

Free sailing afternoons.
This season for the first time ever the last Sunday in every month will have no organised racing in the afternoon. This is an opportunity to get onto the water in a more relaxed and informal way, with the advantage of the back-up and safety cover that the club can provide.
If you don't feel confident enough to take part in racing or you want to learn how to set a course, be a race officer, or have a go in the safety boat this is an ideal way to learn. Alternitavely if you just want to "mess around in boats" that's fine.
Please come along and make these days a success. Dates for your diary:
May 25th, June 29th, July 22nd, August 31st, September 28th.

Club sailing dinghy
Last season the club purchased a Leader sailing dinghy. This is available for use, (for a small donation) by club members. The Leader is a stable 14 foot dinghy, suitable for both racing two up, or cruising with three people on board. Please book on the form in the clubhouse.

Open Regatta weekend 5th and 6th July
Let's make this event the highlight of our season!
There will be two races Saturday afternoon and three or four on Sunday. The barbecue will be lit on Saturday evening, (bring your own food) and if the weather is agreeable some fun activities may be arranged for the evening. There is talk of the commodore getting out his greasy pole.

Starter's Box Training Day. Saturday 3rd May 1.00p.m
This training day has been organised because a number of people have expressed an interest in helping in the box but are unsure of the procedure. We will demonstrate how to use the computer to start and finish races and work out results. We will also cover other aspects such as course setting and race duration. This will be a good opportunity to learn in a friendly, informal atmosphere. All welcome.