Jibsheet - April 2012

From the Commodore’s Cabin

The new season’s sailing is now well underway. Junior sailing on Sundays started earlier last month and the spring series has started. Our Titanic Memorial Event takes place on the 15th April, the 100th anniversary of the sinking of the ship. We feel it’s important to mark this anniversary, not so much for the fact of the world wide interest in Titanic, but for the recognition that it accords with our the strong maritime history of Belfast Lough. Our first small yacht auction takes place on 21st April, and the ever popular Irish Boat Jumble on the following day. These two events give prominence to our Club among the boating community.

I started this article by mentioning the junior sailing, and development of work with juniors has been set as a strategic goal for the Club in our new Development Plan. A recent visit to the Irish Sailing Association AGM confirmed for me that all over Ireland it’s getting hard to attract youngsters to the sport. However, it is so important that we do so. For obvious reasons, juniors are the future of the Club! We will be going out to schools and collaborating with the Active Communities Programme to vigorously promote our Club to youngsters. Any help you can give with this is most appreciated.

Looking back on the winter, we have had an excellent programme of events. The Clubhouse has been full on many nights. The cruising section’s series of winter talks has kept out boating interest very much alive and on the social side we have had some outstanding evenings.

On the Committee we’ve been busy organising these event, but much of our attention has been given to writing our Development Plan, which is now finished, and sets our strategy for the coming years. It is a rolling plan and will be revised as events develop. Managing finances is always a problem but we are making progress in reducing the overdraft. Support of members is always needed, at least in terms of prompt payment of membership and boat park fees. Contributions and offers of sponsorship are very welcome.

As we move into the summer, racing will get into full swing. The Belfast Lough Regattas will run throughout the summer. We have an active cruising programme which all can join in, whether or not you’re keen on racing. On the weekend of 1st – 4th June we have a major festival with the Sail for Gold event and the Classic Boat Festival. It should be a very lively weekend for us. Of course one of the biggest events of the summer will be the Olympic Games where Ryan Seaton and Matt McGovern will be representing Ireland in the 49er class.

Over the coming months, finance permitting, we will be devoting more attention to the clubhouse and grounds. The car park will be resurfaced shortly – you will have noticed that some bad potholes developed over the winter. We will also commission an energy efficiency survey, and then apply for grants to make our premises more energy efficient. We are currently spending far too much on heating, electricity and water and we must find ways of reducing this.

I wish all members a very successful season and look forward to seeing everyone out on the water, or in the Clubhouse.

Roger Woodward
Commodore

Ryan’s Olympic Update

At the beginning of February Ryan Seaton and team mate Matt McGovern took a well-earned rest from their busy training schedule to visit the Club to meet with local dignitaries, members and the press. It was also cause to celebrate the return of their boat to home soil after the Olympic qualifying event in Perth and an opportunity to thank their sponsors, Abbey Insurance. It was also an opportunity for everyone to get a look at the 49’er that the boys hope to gain glory in at the 2012 Olympic Games.

Carrick’s Mayor, Alderman Jim McClurg welcomed both Ryan and Matt to the Borough and stated that he was very proud of their achievement in qualifying for the games and wished them continuing success. Our own Commodore, Roger Woodward, spoke of his hopes for the team’s success in the games and echoed the Mayor’s comments on their fantastic achievements to date.

After the well deserved result of an 8th overall at the ISAF World Sailing Championships in Perth, the boys are well placed to achieve great things at the forthcoming games and incidentally this is the first time Ireland has been represented at the games in the 49’er class since Athens in 2004. This rest is short lived for the boys, as by the time you read this article they will have been globe trotting again completing a training camp in Auckland, New Zealand and then straight off to Weymouth for yet another training camp. As Ryan said during interview, “It’s a far cry from the days of the topper traveller Series!”

You can follow the team’s progress on Face Book at ‘Seaton McGovern’ or on their website: www.irish49er.com/

Racing News

Our Spring Series has finally come round again after what has been an unusually mild winter. We are now racing on a Sunday with the fleet being split into 3 classes i.e. Dinghies in the morning and PY and Restricted Sail in the afternoon. Details and Sailing instruction can be found on the Club Website.

The Titanic Day will take place on Sunday 15th April when the Spring Series racing will be suspended for that day. The event promises to be a spectacular occasion and well worth a visit to the club whether to take part or just watch from the shore. Details of event are again on the Club Website.

The Summer Points Series will commence on Tuesday 1st May for Flying Fifteens, Ruffians, PY and Restricted Sail. Dinghies will start on Wednesday 2nd May, details again can be found on the Website.

A Big Thank you to all who helped in the preparation of the racing marks and Club boats, in particular our Commodore Roger Woodward, Ryan Johnston and Leslie Watson who led the way and volunteered for most of the work.

On the regattas front there will be a change this year on the Portsmouth Handicap Classes. Each yacht will be allocated a Handicap Number prior to the first regatta in June. This number will be the yacht’s handicap for the entire regatta season and won’t change unless there is a serious problem.

The Club’s Handicap figures have been submitted to the Belfast Lough Conference as a reference point although there is no guarantee that this will be the final Regatta number.

The new list will be published in the Regatta booklet and also be available on the BLYC web site and our own Club website sometime in May.

Training

We would like to thank everyone who came down to help clear the slip way in time for the juniors to enjoy a couple of weeks coaching to get them ready for the Spring Series. Every little bit helps and we really appreciated your support!

A few of the juniors also attended some RYA Open Pathway Training days at Carlingford and gained some great experience. It is a good opportunity for them to meet other juniors form different clubs and they get to sail in different waters too! The training lessons they are receiving from the RYA coaches and their involvement with the other clubs is invaluable.

JUNIOR SAILING COURSES JULY 2012

RYA YSS Stages 1 & 2 for junior sailors aged 8-16. Week commencing Monday the 2nd July and Week commencing Monday 23rd July.

If you would like to book a place for your child or you know of any juniors who would be interested in learning to sail please email training@carrickfergussc.org

ADULT COURSES

We have already had quite a lot of interest in the RYA adult sailing courses in the Bahia’s. These courses will hopefully begin in May (exact date to be confirmed) and will take place over a weekend. For more information and to arrange a suitable date please email training@carrickfergussc.org

Join the Lough to Lagan Flotilla

All boat owners are being encouraged to take part in the inaugural Belfast Harbour Flotilla on Sunday 6th May. The flotilla is free to take part in and is sure to be a fun day out for all the family on the May bank holiday.

The flotilla will see up to 60 boats meet in the centre of Belfast Lough and be led up the Lough in spectacular fashion into Belfast Harbour and into the Abercorn Basin Marina. On arrival there will be live music, a free barbeque for all crew members and the option of a free overnight berth. Crews are encouraged to seize the opportunity to visit Titanic Belfast and stay overnight to watch the Belfast City Marathon taking place on Monday 7th May.

Abercorn Basin Marina can accommodate in the region of 55 boats in a sheltered, secure, state-of-the-art marina in the heart of Titanic Quarter, just minutes away from Belfast city centre. The new marina will soon offer visiting boats changing and shower facilities which will be in place in the coming months. Overnight rates are as low as £8.

Spaces are limited so register early to avoid disappointment. For more information and to register, visit www.belfast-harbour.co.uk/flotilla/ or call 028 9033 9949.

Cruising News

By now all of you who have boats will be getting ready for the season ahead.

Our first cruising event of the season is the evening barbeque at Glenarm on 19th May. The marina is reserving the fish-farm pontoon for our personal use and so I hope you will take the opportunity to join in this event. I will have the barbeque already at Glenarm and Linda will be laying on side salads etc, all you have to bring is whatever meat you would like cooked on the bbq. High water Belfast is 1114 hrs and of course some of you may wish to leave on Friday and make a weekend of it. Bring your guitar, flute, whistle or bagpipes and join in the craic.

Speakers nights

Our speakers nights are continuing to be popular and for the most part are very well attended, usually now between 40 and 50 members and guests. Supper is served around 9.30 pm and so the evenings are becoming quite a social occasion not to be missed. All great value for only £5

If you have not yet attended a speakers night, come along and I know you will not be disappointed and feel free to bring a guest. The Speaker nights are held on the third Wednesday evening of the month at 8.00pm from October until April (excluding December). Information is on the club website and you will also be sent information by email.

Denis and Jill Wilson with the Commodore and Cruising Secretary on Speaker's Night

Our Winter programme of speakers will finish on Wednesday 18th April with Sue Anthony of Sea Shepherd Conservation Society. Sue co-ordinates the volunteers and the development of the organisation in Ireland. SSCS uses direct action tactics to investigate, document and take action to expose and confront illegal activities on the high seas. You will probably have already seen some of their direct activities in the Sky TV programme “Whale Wars”. This promises to be a very interesting talk and I urge you all to give this final speakers night your full support.

Denis and Jill Wilson gave a fantastic presentation on their experience crossing the Gobi desert in the Peking to Paris rally which they completed in their beautiful 1927 Rolls Royce. What a story!

Last October Joe Breen, marine biologist and head of marine conservation DOE, gave an interesting presentation accompanied by some great pictures and stories.

Our November night was a film show and talk about St Kilda, that fascinating island on “the edge of the world”

January was Iain McAllister who gave an interesting talk about his life with classic yachts, Iain was involved in the restoration of Peggy Bawn, the 1894 yacht built by Hilditch of Carrickfergus. Iain showed us some fabulous pictures and had many great stories to relate.

Finally we are now working on a schedule of speakers for next Winter and have one or two spaces to fill. If anyone has an interesting presentation, slide show or talk to give, or if you know of anyone, contact Roy Totten or Brian McGregor.

Hope to see lots of you in Glenarm on 19th May.

Brian McGregor, Cruising Secretary.

Stay Safe on the Water

Most sailors will by now be preparing to get out onto the water this season. Going afloat can be exciting, relaxing and pleasurable. To ensure that we remain safe there are some checks, in addition to the boat preparation, that we need to make.

Life Jackets

Always wear a life jacket or buoyancy aid. This will keep you afloat if you end up in the water and will buy you time before assistance arrives. To ensure that you life jacket will work when it is needed, carry out the following checks:

Air Only Life Jackets

• Open up the life jacket and check for wear and tear along the folds.
• Check gas cylinders for tightness and corrosion. If corroded, replace the cylinder.
• Ensure that they have not been activated accidentally.
• Check the automatic firing head (if fitted) and that it is not out of date. Replace if necessary.
• Inflate the life jacket by the mouth tube and leave for 24 hours to ensure that it remains inflated.

Buoyancy Aid (Solid Foam)

• Wash in fresh water after being in salt water.
• Check straps, fastenings, fabric and inspect all parts.

Ensure that your lifejacket is properly fitted i.e. not worn too loose. You should just be able to fit your fist under the buckle when closed. Crotch straps are essential to prevent the lifejacket from riding over your head in the water.

Finally, to ensure that life jacket or buoyancy aid works as it should, WEAR IT.

If you are going further afield carry a reliable means of calling for help:

• Carry a marine VHF Radio (fixed or hand held). It is worth noting that a hand held radio will have a range of about 3 miles whilst a fixed set will have a range of up to 20 miles.
• Flares are a useful means of communicating in an emergency. Check that your flares are in date as they only have a shelf life of 3 years. Replace any that are out of date.

Types of flares include:

Red parachute flares to attract attention and signify that you are in distress. These are visible for up to 30 miles. It should be noted that the rocket leaves the casing at 80 MPH and can kill, so make sure that it is not pointed at anyone and fired well away from masts and rigging. Never fire with a helicopter in the area.

Red hand held pinpoint flares to pinpoint your exact position. Use these when you see assistance or another boat approaching.

Smoke flares are for use in daylight and emit a dense orange smoke. They can be hand held or floating cans.

• Always read the instructions before you need to use them.
• Make sure everyone on board knows where the flares are stored and how to use them.
• Keep flares in waterproof containers and packed so that they don’t bounce around.

Safe Sailing this season.

Social Scene

Wed 18th April - Speakers Night, Sue Anthony, Sea Shepherd Conservation Society
Sat 21st April - Boat Auction (Entertainment in Club)
Sat 5th May - May Ball (Theme—Tramps Ball)
Sat 2nd June - Classic Sail Weekend (Music in Club)

Olympic Torch Bearer

Nicola in action with Belfast Lough Sailability

Nicola Blythe has had the honour of being chosen to be one of the Torch Bearers on the Olympic Flames tour through Northern Ireland in June. Not only that, she is also a featured Torch Bearer and has been selected to carry the Torch through Carrickfergus on 3rd June.

Nicola who is a volunteer with Belfast Lough Sailability and a member of Carrickfergus Sailing Club said “I am just so proud and honoured to have been chosen in the first place but being a featured Torch Bearer has just completely blown me away! Thank you to Belfast Lough Sailability for nominating me – this is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity.

You can follow Nicky’s story at http://www.london2012.com/games/olympic-torch-relay/torchbearers/detail/4A6B-EC57-D20F-5442

Irish Boat Auction 21st April and Jumble 22nd April

With the Boat Jumble approaching we will all be looking to see what new gear is needed for the coming season. It is also time for you to pass on items which are no longer required but will be useful to someone else. There is no point in them sitting gathering dust so why not put them into the Club stall for sale.

So get into the garage, roof space, under the bed or wherever you store your “boat bits” and move them on. Drew McClenaghan is the contact again this year.

Items for sale should be left in the boat shed between 1200hrs and 1800hrs on Saturday 21st. In the event of Drew not being there please ensure that your items are clearly marked with your name and the minimum price that you are prepared to accept.

Anyone wishing to sell a small boat in the auction on 21st should contact Wendy Grant on 07752 664505 or 02893 329999 or wendy.grant@carrickfergussc.org for an application form and further information.

Membership

We would like to welcome Gayle Zebidee and family into the Club. We look forward to seeing you around the Club over the summer.

Thank you to those members who have paid their membership fees promptly. This boosts the Club funds quickly and reduces bank charges.

Titanic Rememberance

Sunday 15th April 2012

1045 Boats muster at No 11 Channel Mark
1100 Boats process to No. 1 fairway buoy
1300 Boats gather in South of CSC clubhouse
1400 Service of rememberance onshore
1500 Reception in Clubhouse

Boats from all Belfast Lough Sailing Clubs are welcome

Port O’ Call Restaurant & Bistro

Proprietor - Jim Mooney Tel: 07790 870 759

Bar Meals & Snacks on the Upper Deck

Dining Room Service on the Lower Deck

Fri & Sat 12 noon, last orders 9 pm

Sunday 12 noon, last orders 7.30 pm

Booking recommended.

Jibsheet - January 2012

From the Commodore’s Cabin

We start the year on a sad note with the recent death of our dear colleague Norman Millar. Norman had been a stalwart supporter of the Club who had given many years’ tireless and cheerful service. He will be sorely missed in the starting hut on race nights and his hard work in helping to maintain our grounds will be hard to replace. He always had a cheerful word of encouragement for members and was a welcoming figure in the Clubhouse. Our deepest sympathy goes to Maureen and the family circle.

In my piece this time last year I thanked the membership for electing me as Commodore, and I do the same now for re-electing me for another year. I will do my best to repay the trust shown in me. We have a new Committee, listed elsewhere in Jib Sheet, but I’d particularly like to thank Deborah Hetherington for undertaking the role of Captain, and convenor of the Social Sub-Committee, Alan Montgomery for undertaking the role of Honorary Treasurer, and Mandy Rodgers for convening the House and Grounds Sub-Committee. We now have a very good sub-committee structure and I anticipate good progress on issues this year. In welcoming new members we must, of course, thank those who have made a great contribution and are now stepping down. Fred Bell who has served as Hon Treasurer for nine years, Gary McFarland who has led on our Social Sub-Committee, and Conor Brown who took over the House & Grounds sub-committee. Dan Kennedy has also stepped down and Jim Shields has completed his one year on Committee as Past Commodore.

Already we have established a great calendar of events for the coming year. The social events programme started with the Burns Supper in January and St Valentine’s night dinner in February. In March we have the Commodore’s Dinner. For the first time we’ll also be holding a May Ball. Since April 15th marks the centenary of the sinking of the Titanic we will be holding our commemorative event on that day – although our Spring Series will have started, there will not be a race on that Sunday. The Sailing Committee has put forward a great series of cruising events throughout the season, including a Copeland’s barbeque, a Portpatrick trip and a Strangford trip. Racing, of course, will including spring and autumn Sunday series and Tuesday and Thursday points racing in the summer. I’d especially encourage people to support the regattas this summer. We had a memorable event at our Club last August and I think there is a great deal of enjoyment to be had at these events. Junior sailing will be a strong focus of the Club’s provision, with both training and racing events arranged. Our collaboration with the Active Communities Scheme should lead to much greater participation this year.

Of course, problems still remain. We very much need to increase membership of the Club. It is not easy to sustain our present scale of operation on the membership numbers we currently have. With our enhanced emphasis on cruising and fun on the water days, it would be good to see more boat owners in the marina joining us – I’m sure we have much to offer to help them get more out of their boating. Finance remains a significant problem. Prompt payment of membership and boat park fees helps with this.

The Clubhouse is much more fully used these days, with all our rooms in use on some midweek evenings. We must, of course try to increase our income from this usage, even in terms of bar takings. Our catering facilities are excellent and, if you haven’t yet done so, I’d urge everyone to try the weekend restaurant or bar meals.

I look forward to a very active year in the Club: a year in which we will see one of our members, Ryan Seaton, representing his county in the Olympic Games. This is a real honour for the Club. I wish everyone a great season’s sailing.

Roger Woodward

Commodore

Cruising

Firstly, thank you to everyone who attended the cruising meeting in December and assisted in putting together a calendar of cruising dates for 2012. I look forward to seeing you all at future meetings where we can help to further the cruising activities of the club.

Please put the following dates into your calendar.

Sunday 15th April Titanic Commemoration Event
Saturday 19th May Glenarm Barbeque
Sunday 3rd June Family Fun Day (Classic Sail Weekend)
Saturday 23rd June Copelands Barbeque
Saturday 30th June Cruise/Race to Rathlin Island
Saturday 4th August Cruise in Company to Strangford
Saturday 18th August Cruise to Portpatrick
Saturday 1st September Cutter’s Wharf

The Boxing Day Cruise (27th December 2011)

Although the weather forecast was uncertain we were fortunate in having a brief lull in the winds on the Tuesday morning and the event was well attended with some 15 boats and 80 hardy souls making their way to the Abercorn Basin pontoons and onward to the Duke of York where we enjoyed the delicious soup and sandwiches kindly arranged by Andrea Martin.

Speakers Nights

Thank you for your continuing support for these popular nights.
Coming up soon:
Wednesday 22nd February Lyndsay Buckley “Sea Survival Equipment”
Wednesday 21st March Denis & Jill Wilson “Peking to Paris in a 1927 Rolls Royce”
Wednesday 18th April Susan Anthony “Sea Shepherd Conservation Society”

Training News

Everyone is looking forward to getting back on the water this year and our juniors are certainly keen to get back into their wetsuits and get sailing!

In November we ran some topper coaching for a few weeks and we plan to do the same again in March. This will enable our CSC junior sailors to develop their skills and prepare them for competition at topper travellers and regattas.

Once again we will be running some junior sailing courses commencing in July. We have two definite dates for RYA YSS Stages 1 & 2 for junior sailors aged 8-16. These are week commencing Monday the 2nd July and week commencing Monday 23rd July. If you would like to book a place for your child or you know of any juniors who would be interested in learning to sail please email training@carrickfergussc.org

We also plan to run some RYA adult sailing courses in the Bahias. These courses will hopefully begin in May and will take place over a weekend. For more information and to arrange a suitable date please email training@carrickfergussc.org

As always to help us develop our junior sailing we need volunteers to help us out both on and off the water. If you could spare some time please email rorymmoore@hotmail.com and we can add your name to the volunteer list. It would be greatly appreciated by us and by the junior sailors!

Management Committee

The Club has completed its registration with Companies House and is now a Company Limited by Guarantee. The Management Committee are members of the Board with their associated responsibilities. The Memorandum of Understanding and Articles of Association can be viewed at the club house or on the web site.

New Members

This quarter we have six new members and would like to welcome them into the Club. They are David Davison and family, Ronald Bishop, Tony Walker, Thomas Townsley, Sudhir Tardon, and Colin de Vrieze. We look forward to seeing you around the club in weeks and months to come.

Carrickfergus Ruffian Affair

Carrickfergus has a long association with the Ruffian Class of boats. The Ruffian 23 is a 23 foot keelboat which was designed and built by brothers Dickie and Billy Brown at Portaferry, County Down, 35 years ago. The Ruffian 23 is a one design racing yacht, but is also an extremely family friendly cruiser for its size and has been cruised in the waters around Ireland, the UK and further afield. Around 200 Ruffians were built and many are still raced regularly in Dun Laoghaire, Wicklow, Skerries, Baltimore, Carrickfergus, Strangford Lough, around the Clyde, Isle of Man and even in Hong Kong and Uruguay.

The original Ruffian was a 33 foot ocean racer designed by Billy and Dickie Brown in 1969/70. It was so successful that the brothers set up “Weatherly Yachts” and went into production with a smaller 23 foot model. There are over 70 of these boats in Ireland which were built during the 70’s and early 80’s.

The first Ruffians started to appear in the club in the late 70’s. These were a mixture of the 23 foot model and the larger 8.5 metre version. The first 23 foot boat was Mellow Yellow sailed by Robin Fielden. The early 8.5s were Grousebeater (Alan Beggs), Rum Rouge (Henry Wilson and Maurice Kane), Moonraker (Ian McMurray), Polyanna (P. Scott) and Ruffun (Sam Burnside).

The next 23 footer into the Club was Hot Orange owned by Hamish Barbour. These boats were bought as a hull and deck and then finished and fitted out by their owners. Hamish reflects with passion the early racing on Hot Orange particularly against Cordon Bleu sailed by Alan Richmond. He also recalls the Tomatin in May 1982 when Grousebeater and Hot Orange represented the Club. The overnight feeder race from Bangor to Tarbert was particularly memorable. On advice from Terry Windsor, they tacked immediately for Whitehead and then north up the County Antrim coast. All other yachts sailed due east. The Carrick boats managed to stay in light winds all night while the others were becalmed. Grousebeater was first on the water and won her Class by sixteen hours on corrected time and Hot Orange won her Class by eleven hours corrected time.

The next three years were also successful for them and in 1984 in the feeder race Grousebeater was first, Rum Rouge second and Hot Orange third. They also raced in the Nationals in Dublin Bay in very testing conditions and had a record speed of 14.2 knots. Hamish says there was no noise from the crew as the rudder trembled while Sam Montgomery gybed the spinnaker.

These successes encouraged others in the club to buy Ruffians. Walter Ewing bought Bloodhound in 1988. This boat was built in 1977 and originally was from Strangford and then Dun Laoghaire. Alec Kirkpatrick also bought Carageen around that time and he has shown a clean pair of heels ever since. He and his experienced crew provide the standard everyone in Carrick has to beat. Last season Carageen was second in the National Championships in Dun Laoghaire and won the Corrin Trophy as the best boat from outside Dublin Bay.

Originally Ruffians were raced in IRC Class and Walter has documentation of the boat weights when they were weighed at Kelly’s coal yard at the harbour. Their weights varied little between 1.82 and 1.92 tonnes.

These boats change hands regularly and there are currently twelve in the club most of which take part in the one design club racing. The current regulars on the start line are:

Carageen – Alec Kirkpatrick
Bloodhound – Walter Ewing
Hot Orange – Cyril Noble
Riki Tiki Tavi – Alan Harpur and Simon Toland
Coyote – Lisa and James Waugh
Daisy – Wendy Grant
Roosky – Charlie Hilditch

Ruffians are well made boats and have stood the test of time. They are very forgiving and have given their owners lots of joy over the years. They also add a touch of colour on the water. Their vibrant colours brighten any race and the starts can be likened to a fireworks display, sometimes in more ways than one.

We hope the Ruffian tradition in Carrick continues for many years to come.

A colourful Ruffian start line

Ryan and Matt qualify for the 2012 Olympics

Carrickfergus sailor Ryan Seaton and his team mate Matt McGovern have officially qualified Ireland for the 2012 Olympics in the 49er sailing discipline. It will be the first time since Athens 2004 that Ireland has been represented in the 49er Class.

A very intensive training programme is planned for the boys in the run up to the event. Congratulations and best wishes. We will all be rooting for you.

Sailing News

The Spring Series starts on Sunday 25th March so get the scrubbers and antifouling out. It runs until 29th April although there will be no racing on 15th April due to the Titanic Centenary Weekend.

Titanic Commeration Event

On April 15th 2012 it is one hundred years since the sinking of the Titanic. The Club will be holding a special event to mark this tragedy. The event will include boats mustering at No. 11 channel buoy (off Holywood) at 1045 hrs and then proceeding down Belfast Lough to No. 1 fairway buoy (off Gray’s Point) to mark the passage of the Titanic down Belfast Lough on 2nd April 1912. The boats will then assemble in a semi-circle at the front of the club house. There will be a short service ashore at 1300 hrs and a brass band will play hymns and a wreath will be laid on the water. A junior member of the club will also lay a wreath in remembrance of the 52 children that were lost. The service will be followed by a reception in the club house at 1430 hrs.

2012 Regatta Dates

Sat 9th June Royal Ulster Yacht Club
Sat 23rd June Ballyholme Yacht Club
Sat 7th July Holywood Yacht Club
Sat 21st July East Antrim Boat Club
Sat 28th July County Antrim Yacht Club
Sat 4th August Cockle Island Boat Club
Sat 11th August Royal North of Ireland Yacht Club
Sat 18th August Donaghadee Sailing Club
Sat 25th August Carrickfergus Sailing Club

Could all boat owners please notify the Sailing Secretary of any boat changes during 2011 so that the Lough Conference records can be updated.

Alternatively send details of changes to info@CarrickfergusSC.org

Please Note: All racing crew taking part in the Club’s Points Series must have either full membership or be a junior, student or sailing associate. members of the Club.

Social Scene

A full Social Programme has been prepared for the year. These events include:

11th Feb Valentines Night (Sit down meal + entertainment)
10th March Commodore’s Dinner
17th March St Patrick’s Night ( food + entertainment)
21st April Small Boat Auction (entertainment in club)
22nd April Irish Boat Jumble
5th May May Ball
1/2 May Classic Sail Weekend
25th Aug CSC Regatta
12th Oct Prize Giving Dinner
27th Oct Halloween Party
22nd Dec Christmas Dinner
23rd Dec Children’s Party + Carols in the Club
31st Dec New Year’s Eve Formal Dinner

TICKET SALES FOR SOCIAL EVENTS

Ascertaining total numbers for social events has always been fraught with difficulty, due to last minute sale of tickets, making it difficult for the caterer to estimate the number of meals required, waitresses to employ etc.   For all future events tickets will be sold at the advertised price up to 3 days prior to the event.  Any tickets ordered or sold after that date will have a £5 surcharge per ticket.

PAYING FOR TICKETS

Tickets can be purchased by PayPal on the club website, or with cash, credit card or cheque at the bar or event organiser.  Money for tickets will only be accepted at the bar up to 12 noon on the day of the event.  Any money outstanding after that should be paid to the event organiser, usually the Social Secretary.

CLUB CARD DISCOUNT

10% discount on bar sales when using your Membership Card is to continue.  A minimum of £20 should be credited to your card to get discount, all cash sales will be at full bar prices.  This is to reduce money transactions at the bar, to ensure the proper use of Membership Cards, and ultimately to speed up service at the bar at busy times.  It will be implemented on 1st March 2012.

The 10% discount will continue to apply when purchasing meals from the caterer.

Your co-operation in these matters is greatly appreciated

Port O’ Call Restaurant & Bistro

Proprietor - Jim Mooney Tel:     07790 870 759

Bar Meals & Snacks on the Upper Deck

Dining Room Service on the Lower Deck

Friday & Saturday 12 noon, last orders 9 pm

Sunday 12 noon, last orders 7.30 pm

Booking recommended.

Carrickfergus Sailing Club
Rodger’s Quay, Carrickfergus
Co. Antrim. BT38 8BE

+44 2893 351402
Fax : +44 2893 359302
info@CarrickfergusSC.org

Printing kindly sponsored by Texam Ltd

Editor : Jim Shields (jibsheet@carrickfergussc.org)

Jibsheet - November 2011

From the Commodore’s Cabin

It’s happened after several years of trying – we are now a limited company and no longer reliant on a the bank to act as trustees for us. The Articles of Association of our company will shortly be available on the Club’s website (www.carrickfergussc.org) and written copies will be available from the Hon Secretary. Categories of membership are somewhat changed and details of these will be included on the membership renewal notices, shortly to be sent out.

The Regatta was as successful as ever, with 90 boats crossing the line. The weather was great and the Club looked splendid. Many thanks to all those who worked so hard to make the event such a success: the Sailing Committee, the rescue boat team, the starting hut team and all the volunteers who helped with the catering and domestic arrangements.

As the Summer Points Racing came to a close, increasing numbers of boats answered the gun. It would be good to see numbers of competitors building up for the next season. At the time of writing the autumn series has finished and the late series is about to start. On the subject of racing, a particular word of thanks is due to Rory Moore and his team who have organised junior racing on Wednesday evenings, and at weekends throughout the summer and on into the autumn. I’ll have the privilege of giving prizes to the junior competitors on 23^rd October.

On the cruising front we had a very successful treasure hunt on 27^th August. In September we had a great trip into Belfast and on up the Lagan for Lunch at Cutters Wharf. Forty four members joined the trip. Club and Sailability boats were used to for ferrying up the Lagan. I think you can see from this that the Club offers great activities in boating – both racing and cruising.

Another big development since our last Jibsheet is the appointment of a new caterer. Regrettably, Liberty Catering left us at the end of August, and Port o’ Call Catering were appointed shortly afterwards. We did some extensive renovations to the kitchen. I’d like to thank Wendy Grant and Conor Brown for the enormous effort they put in to get it ready for the new caterer.  I think all who have used the new service are greatly impressed and I’d urge everyone to give Port o’ Call their support.

Membership continues to be a priority. As I’ve said before, membership fees are our biggest single income stream and I’d urge everyone to respond promptly when membership renewal invitations arrive. It’s also important to ensure that everyone who’s using Club resources is a member: it’s up to everyone to help with this.

We’ve much to look forward to in the coming weeks. The annual dinner and prize giving will be a great evening, and the following weekend we have a naming ceremony for our Bahia dinghies. The AGM follows on 23^rd November. At Christmas we’ll have the Christmas dinner and a number of other events. In the new year look forward to a special event just before the Irish Boat Jumble. On a more sombre note, 2012 marks the 100^th anniversary of the Titanic tragedy and we will be holding a special event to mark this. Over the winter the cruising section has arranged a series of interesting talks and on Thursdays we have our popular quiz nights.

I look forward to seeing everyone at the events we have planned for the autumn and winter.

Roger Woodward

Commodore

Cruising

We had 2 events late in the summer programme.  The Family Fun Day and Cruise to Cutters Wharf, they were both well attended and enjoyable for all involved.  As the cruising season comes to a close we now look forward to our programme of speakers for the winter season. Guest speaker nights are planned for the third Wednesday evening of every month until April (Excluding December).  We plan to continue with the format of light supper afterwards.

Details of speakers will be posted on the club notice board, also on the club website and you will also receive an email reminder.  If you are not currently receiving emails from secretary please advise me of your email address and I will have it included in the database.   mcgregor836@btinternet.com.  The traditional Boxing Day Cruise will take place on 27^th December.  Berthing at the Odyssey and drinks in the City.  More details will be available closer to the time.

Photo & Log Competition

Could I remind everyone to submit photo and log entries at mcgregror836@btinternet.com  by 30^th November?  Prizes will be awarded at the Club prize-giving Dinner 2012.  Categories for photos are; Wildlife, Landscape, Action and Humorous.  All the entries from last season are featured on the club website and also on the screen in the bar.

Photos from the Glenarm barbeque are also on the Club website.

And finally a big thank you to everyone who supported the various cruising events throughout the year.

Brian McGregor

Winter Events at CSC

Mondays from  31^st October : The Picture Club (Price TBA)

Do you enjoy painting or want to give it a try?  Could you improve your Photography techniques - some tips from an expert.

Tuesdays : Line Dancing. 7.45pm                  Beginners,  8.30pm Intermediate and Improvers. Price £3 per lesson. Newcomers welcome.

Wednesdays from 26^th October (except Speakers Nights)    

Scottish Country Dancing (Price TBA).  12 classes, the final evening being a "ceilidh dance".

Thursdays : Quiz Night.  Table quiz starting at 8.30 each week. (£1 per person, maximum 6 per table)

Friday from 28^th October :The Final Friday Club

An evening of home-grown craic in the Club - bring along an instrument, a story, tale, poem or joke.  Join in on last Friday of every month at 8pm.

To participate in any of the above or for further information contact the Hon Secretary, Wendy Grant 07752 664 505 email wendy.grant@carrickfergussc.org

Speakers Nights

Wed 16th Nov Film Night with Brian McGregor - “St Kilda” and “Maxi Racing”

Wed 18th Jan Iain McAllister - “My Life with Classic Yachts”

Wed 22nd Feb Lindsay Buckley “Lifejackets and Liferafts”

Wed 21st Mar Denis and Jill Wilson “Sailing the Gobi Desert in a 1927 Rolls Royce”

Wed 18th Apr Sea Shepherds - details to follow

Other Winter Events               

Wednesday 23^rd November Annual General Meeting 7.30 pm

Saturday 17^th December Christmas Dinner Dance 7.30 for 8pm

Sunday 18^th December Carols in the Club - time to be confirmed.

The Sailing Penny’s

When Sam Penney joined C.S.C. in 1953 he could proudly boast of his two ‘willies’ already in the Trophy Cabinet. One was his great, great, great uncle Willie Penney whose name is inscribed on the Workman Rowing Cup 1884. The other was Willie Skelton, his Grandfather whose name is inscribed on the Sir Thomas Lipton Cup, 1911 for his win in ‘Factory Girl’ an 18 foot Open Boat.   With this pedigree it is hardly surprising that Sam (with the help of his brother Bill) started his nearly 60-year connection with this club with a bang, by winning the Lipton Cup in 1954 in the Snipe Mistral.

In the early 1970s the then CSC Committee decided to push for juniors in the Club and to this end they not only encouraged some dads to build or buy Mirror Dinghies, but also bought two kits to build themselves. The kits in those days cost the princely sum of £69.  Kevin McLaverty, CSC Member and competitor in the 1968 Olympic Games sailing a Finn, started the kit building, but soon after went to work for Donegal Fisheries.  Sam finished his own kit and then completed the two for CSC. The Mirror Dinghy fleet built up over the next few years and over a dozen were racing regularly.     The standard of the fleet increased too as quite a few travelled to weekend events and championships.  During his Mirror days Sam served for more years than he can recall on the C.S.C. Committee. Many a happy year was spent ensuring the old clubhouse didn’t fall into the tide and later helping with the construction of the new one. A stickler for following the rules correctly and with an engineer’s knowledge of plans and measurements, Sam put himself to good use measuring boats and sails. With a strong commitment both to encouraging younger sailors and to raising everyone’s game, when the RYA set up a Coaching & Training committee Sam served on it for six years.

The two people most in receipt of Sam’s ‘training’ are his son Stephen and daughter Samantha. When Stephen was the tender age of eight, crewing for his dad, they won the Irish Mirror Championships. In that year 1976 over fifty members from CSC travelled and camped at Greystones.  But this happy partnership was not to last. At eleven Stephen kicked his dad out of ‘Allegro’ accusing him of being too fat!  Another Mirror Dinghy had then to be built (the tenth one) for daughter Samantha, aptly named ‘Penney Black’.

From this point on Sam was relegated to assisting his wife Shirley in her role as logistics chief and trolley puller-upper! After 4 years as Northern Rep and 5 years as Chairman of the Irish Mirror Dinghy Class Sam moved into the Ruffian 23 fleet where he raced for 19 years in Cordon Bleu and then on to his present boat, the Maxi 8.4 ‘Nirvana’. He is also currently Commodore of Carrickfergus Model Boat Club. He says that this is much cheaper and you can put up a brolly when it rains!        

Son Stephen has given his Dad a run for his money in the medal stakes. Eight years after his first, Stephen won his second Irish Gold Medal when he helmed ‘Allegro’ at Sligo in 1984, he then crewed in the Flying Fifteen class and won another Irish Gold with John Miller in 1988.  Marriage to Gillian led to a new generation of  Penney’s and Stephen found himself with a 5 year old crew called Chris and  ‘Penney Black’ was bought back from a careful owner.  But by this time Toppers were more numerous and Chris discovered that little bumps or scratches didn’t show, so the long tradition of Mirror Dinghies came to an end. Chris followed in his father and grandfather’s steps by winning Gold, in the Toppers before moving into Laser Radials where he won Gold and the Irish Junior Helmsman’s Championship.   At present Chris is sailing a Laser full rig on an Irish Select Team and has been competing abroad at numerous events as far away as New Zealand. His younger brother Andrew, also racing a Topper in an Irish Select team, this year they won the RYA Junior Team Event for N.I in the English Lake District. Father, son and grandson have 6 Irish Championship Gold medals between them and believe it or not recently Sam was told, on the water,” to go away and learn to sail”!! At 73 Sam is still learning.  But perhaps we should spare a thought for the wives. Shirley reckons that she and Gillian should get Gold Medals for pulling up dinghy trolleys over the years, but like all good sailors wives, they just have to look devoted and smile!

Written by, Dr.Michael Russ, Dean of Huddersfield University

Port O’ Call Restaurant & Bistro

Proprietor - Jim Mooney      Tel:     07790 870 759

Bar Meals & Snacks on the Upper Deck 

Dining Room Service on the Lower Deck

Friday & Saturday 12 noon, last orders 9 pm

Sunday 12 noon, last orders 7.30 pm

Booking recommended.

Club Regalia!

Buy one get one free on all club regalia.

Contact Andrea Windsor with your orders. 

07775 595 884

Ruff Racing for the Ruffians!

The end of July this year saw three Carrick boats taking part in the Irish Ruffian Championships held at the National Yacht Club in Dublin.  They were Carageen helmed by Trevor Kirkpatrick, Brian Courtney’s Scorpio and Wendy Grant’s Daisy.  Wendy being a new Ruffian owner was ready for any challenge.  Her first challenge was to get the boat there and then compete with what she was told was a “take no prisoners” hard racing fleet.  Trevor took the easier option by trailer whilst Wendy and Brian sailed down in company.

With an early morning start two hours before LW to make full use of the south going tide Wendy and Brian reached Ardglass eight hours later.  Trying to get dinner in Ardglass was a bit of a problem as the recommended bar/restaurant was not selling food and the local chippy had no fish (Yes, that’s right – Ardglass without fish).  They were extremely thankful for the Chinese.

The second leg to Dun Laoghaire was uneventful and on arrival everyone was greeted by Larry Powers, local Ruffian owner and past commodore and then on to a barbecue and some excellent guinness. The racing lived up to its reputation, with twenty boats jockeying for position at the start line and interesting roundings of the leeward mark with eight or nine boats all screaming some nautical expletives.  Not language to be heard by Wendy’s all female crew Geraldine, Gillian, Kirsty and Mary.

Trevor had a hot young crew Colin, Steve, Conor and Gary and his father Alec as shore manager.  The championship was a seven race series with one discard.  The first race saw Carageen having a good start with the lead changing throughout the race.  Carageen came back at the finish to get second behind Siamsa.  With the wind dropping for the second race Carageen was thirty seconds late for the start but clawed back from sixteenth to sixth at the finish.  At the end of day one they were second overall behind Siamsa.

Little wind on day two saw Carageen having “issues” with Diana 2 on the start line.  Having to do penalty turns put Carageen at the back of the fleet but a 180 degree wind shift and new breeze benefited them and they sneaked a fourth place.  Race four saw a twenty knot sea breeze, in which Carageen was to revel, leading easily from start to finish.  Race five was sailed in a similar breeze but Carageen had to work hard to clock up another win.  Carageen now had a two point lead overall going into the final day.

Race six on the final day saw a shifty force three coming off the shore.  Although Carageen did not have a good start they were in the lead with four boats close behind on the last lap.  With a beat and a run to go three of the boats behind headed for the shore whilst Diana went on a split tack and headed for the starboard side of the beat.  Carageen failed to cover Diana, a mistake which cost them the race with Diana first and Carageen second.

Going into the last race Carageen was one point ahead of Diana overall.  Another terrible start in the last race gave them everything to do.  Despite a meteoric comeback Diana finished first two boat lengths ahead of Carageen.

The points were equal but Diana was to win the tie-break on a results count back.

Carageen won the Carman Trophy for the best non Dublin boat.  It was also the best any boat from the North has done in the history of the championships.

Brian and Wendy also had a good weekend’s racing.  Brian and the Scorpio crew, which included his wife Lorna, Fiona, Mandy and Denis were third overall in the Silver fleet and achieved seventh in the third race.

Everyone returned home by land and sea elated but exhausted.  Wendy took no chances about getting fish and chips and got her brother-in-law to bring them from Downpatrick to Ardglass.

Roll on next year!

Training News

CSC junior sailors have had a busy summer this year with topper travellers, training courses, regattas and the RYA NI Volvo Youth Championships.  A few new sailors joined us after successfully completing the YSS stage 1&2 sailing courses and our more intermediate sailors gained their stages 3&4 on our new laser Bahia’s.  See them in action on the 29^th October at the special Bahia naming day event!  A few of our junior sailors travelled to Larne for the Youth Championships and performed very well in a topper fleet of approx 60 boats and an overall fleet of 115 dinghies.  It was a great experience for them to be involved in.  We also put nine adult sailors through their RYA National Sailing Scheme Levels 1&2 in the laser Bahia’s.  This was an enjoyable couple of days for the adults and hopefully their interest will continue next year.

In July we ran an RYA club race coach course. All our students passed giving the club four qualified dinghy coaches.  In August we held a first aid course for 10 people including the club bar staff and some of Sailability’s volunteers. The course was ran by Alan Grundie who very kindly gave up his time to give all who attended, a fun, and informative day.

All in all, junior sailing and training at CSC has been full of activity, and we look forward to welcoming some new sailors to the club next year and to continue with our ongoing progress!

Slippi Jin goes to Scotland

West Highland Yachting Week is as much a holiday as it is a race.  It is a series of passage races and round the cans racing.  We have now competed in this series four times on Slippi Jin and twice on our previous boat Maximeyes.  In 2008 we won our Class but on returning in 2009 we were 4^th under much heavier wind conditions.  We decided to return this year to try to recover the trophy.

There are two fleets, a spinnaker fleet which does windward/leeward and triangle courses and a white sail fleet which races round marks which could be several miles apart.  These fleets are then divided into Classes depending on Clyde Handicaps.  We race white sail as it is less onerous on the crew, but it is just as competitive as the spinnaker classes.  One big bonus with the white sail courses is that you see magnificent scenery (when you get time to look round).   This year we had the benefit of a mothership to provide additional accommodation. Alan Grundy brought his boat “Aquarius” with its lavish accommodation.

We met up with Alan and his crew in Gigha, as he had left a day earlier. Gigha is the start of the feeder race from the south up to Craobh Haven.  Having taken on emergency rations in Gigha (the price of cases of beer in Gigha is fierce) we started the feeder race with very light winds.  Throughout the day light breezes filled and died. We baked in the sunshine and Trevor was even seen to be drinking water.  After a nine hour slog we finished 7^th in the feeder race.  This race is a combination of all Classes and spinnakers are permitted.  These results are however not included in the points series as it is regarded as a separate race.

At Craobh Haven the engine wouldn’t start so, with such an experienced crew on board, we sailed into the marina and managed to pick up a space on the fuel berth, as other sailors dashed to assist.  This was the fastest we had gone all day and it was quite spectacular being in such close quarters with other boats.  The next day the passage race from Craobh to Oban started with high winds.  Most boats were reefed for the beat to the first mark but we started with full sail and after a great start got to the weather mark first.  On the long reach and downwind sections Glenafton, a 56ft ketch and our main rival in these conditions, got away.  We finished 2^nd behind Glenafton.

The next day’s racing was very uneventful with very little wind.  Again we finished 2^nd behind Glenafton.  The next two days of races i.e. the second day’s racing round the cans in the Firth of Lorne and the Oban to Tobermory passage race were cancelled due to lack of wind.  This is virtually unheard of in this series.  Our disappointment was however well compensated for by the social scene and the spit roast pig at Dunstaffnage Marina. 

The Sound of Mull races above Tobermory were held in very light conditions.  We crept up the shore and managed to get away from the fleet and finished 1^st.  The Series was now down to the last passage race from Tobermory to Oban.  We were one point ahead of Glenafton so therefore had to finish ahead of him to win the series.  A good start was crucial so there was a lot of pushing and shoving at the start line.  Glenafton barged in and forced us over the line and we had to go back.  We protested Glenafton and managed to catch him as he executed his penalty turns in the Sound of Mull.  With the wind behind us we were able to stay ahead just covering his every move two hundred metres behind us.  Passing Loch Aline we picked up a bit more tide and opened up a bit of a gap but as we crossed over to Lismore Light the wind shifted to a reach and he came charging back.

The beat up to the finish was hectic with many boats in all classes finishing together.  We managed to keep in clear air and hung on to just long enough to get finished ahead of Glenafton.  You can imagine the rest; cheers and celebrations.  The West Highland Yachting Week Series is a good mix of racing, socialising and holidaying.  I would encourage more Carrick boats to participate.

Jim Shields

Carrickfergus Sailing Club

Rodger’s Quay, Carrickfergus

Co. Antrim.  BT38 8BE

+44 2893 351402

Fax : +44 2893 359302

info@CarrickfergusSC.org

Printing kindly sponsored by Texam Ltd

Editors : Ian McNamara (imcnamara@hotmail.co.uk) & Denise Shields (jibsheet@carrickfergussc.org)

Jibsheet - July 2011

Jibsheet - April 2011

Jibsheet - February 2011

From the Commodore’s Cabin

I should start by thanking the club members for electing me as Commodore.  It is indeed a great honour and I’ll do my best to repay the trust shown in me.

Just to introduce myself, for those of you who don’t know me, I’ve been a family member of the club since 1975. I sailed a flying fifteen, and then moved onto a small cruiser racer, a Puppeteer 22, which my wife, daughter and I raced for ten years. For the last few years I’ve raced my Sadler 26 “Dragon Lady” in the PY class. In addition we’ve done quite a bit of cruising up the Western Isles, and sometimes I’ve sailed a bit further afield.  I served for a spell on the Club Committee in the 1980’s and last year came on the Board as Hon. Treasurer.

We have a new Board and members are introduced elsewhere in Jibsheet.  I very much look forward to working with them.  As we look forward, it is right to look back and offer thanks to the outgoing Board who have served the club so well and steered our ship through some very difficult times.  Jim Shields, our outgoing Commodore took over in very difficult circumstances and gave the Club outstanding leadership for two and a half years. The Club is much indebted to Jim for his dedication and professionalism.  He will be a very hard act to follow!  I’d like to particularly thank those who have left the Board after extensive service. Robert Logan has served as Hon Secretary for many years as has Gillian McAdam, as Membership Secretary.  We also say thanks to Drew McClenaghan- Marketing and Fundraising and Alan Weir, our outgoing Vice Commodore.  The Club owes them all a huge debt of gratitude. The Club has several committees that look after the effective running of our act. I’d encourage any member of the club who feels able to contribute to their work to offer their services. Our Club is run by voluntary effort, so help and support is greatly valued.

Training will be a key feature of the Club’s work this year. We have been very successful in gaining grant support for the purchase of three dinghies. This will afford training opportunities for adults and for family groups, in addition to the resources we have for training youngsters. But for this to work we need support.  Please volunteer to help if you’re able to make a contribution. We are currently seeking grant aid for redevelopment of the slipway. This will be very useful, if not essential, for the development of our dinghy sailing.

As we all look forward to a new year and a new sailing season, I really want to feel that all members will want to become very much involved with the club, both participating in its activities and contributing to its running. As well as sailing events we have a good programme of talks on maritime  topics and a good programme of social activities, and we have great facilities for a meal and a quiet drink for occasions when that’s wanted.  As I said, most of my sailing at CSC has been as a family racing team and I often reflect that small cruiser racing is a great sport that the whole family can join in. Our new training boats will be a superb asset for family training. So let’s all anticipate a great season, a club where everyone feels valued and everyone feels happy to contribute to the life of the club in whatever way they can.

Roger Woodward

Commodore

Cruising

Jibsheet - October 2010

From the Commodore’s Cabin

We are now well into the second half of the season with the Autumn Series nearing a close.  There is a nip in the air and with the clocks going back we will be well and truly into the winter.  But don’t despair, the sailing season goes on until 12th December with the Frosty Series racing every Sunday.  Quite often sailing conditions are better then than during the summer, albeit a bit colder.  So come on, all you hardy sailors, get out and maximise the use of your boats.

To compliment the winter racing a good social programme has been arranged.  It is proposed to hold a social evening every 3rd Wednesday during the winter, so keep this free and watch the website for details.  I am particularly looking forward to the talk by Maud Hamill on Geneology in April “Who Do You Think You Are?”.  Last year I traced and visited the grave of a great uncle who was killed in France in 1915 in the First World War.  This year I returned and, having obtained excerpts from the Seaforth Highlanders War Diaries, was able to trace where he was a fatally injured to within a few hundred metres.  I also visited the Menin Gate in Ypres, Belgium and found the name of another relative who was lost in action on the western front whilst serving with the Argyll & Southerland Highlanders.
A “Geneology Club” within the club may be a possibility if anyone is interested.  Let me know if you are.
Thank you to everyone who responded to the ballot request in the last Jib Sheet.  Nearly a quarter of the membership responded, raising over £1500 for the club.  Anyone who hasn’t returned their ballot, I would encourage you to do so as the club needs all the funding that can get at present.
The Social Committee and the Caterer have put a lot of effort into organising social events recently. Unfortunately attendance at the last two events was disappointing.  I would encourage you to support club events as the income generated helps to boost club funds and allows us to keep membership fees at a reasonable level. 
The AGM this year is on Friday 3rd December 2010.  I would encourage you to attend and give your input to the proceedings.  After the meeting there will be a light supper and some music.
Best regards and I hope you enjoy the rest of the season.
Jim Shields Commodore

Cruising

Winter Speakers

Boat Park

Membership

Ladies Race 31 August 2010

Sailing Underway

Our Neighbours - Carrick Sea Cadets

Rough Time at Portpatrick

Belfast Lough Sailability (BLS)

Liberty Catering at CSC

Blue Water News

Christmas Dinner/Dances  £22
Fri 10, Sat 11, Fri 17 and Sat 18 Dec

Jibsheet - July 2010

From the Commodore’s Cabin

It is good to see the increase in activity around the club now that summer is here.  Not only has the sailing reinvigorated members but there is a buzz around the place including the restaurant and bar.

It is good to see the increase in activity around the club now that summer is here.  Not only has the sailing reinvigorated members but there is a buzz around the place including the restaurant and bar.
The Marketing & Fundraising Committee has been very active and has produced a Sponsorship Pack which will be used to attract future sponsors.  There are many benefits listed in the pack for sponsors, so let us know of any companies which may be willing to sponsor the club and we will make contact with them.  The best way of getting sponsorship is through members of the club.  Please contact Roy Totten or email us details of possible sponsors on info@carrickfergussc.org.We are hoping to improve the external appearance of the club.  This is a photo of the proposed front façade and entrance.  We would be happy to hear your comments and would be glad of assistance from any members to do the work.  Have we got any members that could assist with the joinery work, landscaping, painting etc.   Again let us know if you would be able to help by contacting Alan Harpur or email info@carrickfergussc.org.Finally, you will find a book of tickets with this Jib Sheet for the ballot for the dinghy (value £550) and other excellent prizes.  The dinghy is on display in the lobby of the clubhouse.  This is a fund raising exercise for the Club so could I ask that you either buy the book or sell the tickets to friends and relatives.  It will help raise funds for the club during this period of recession.  Please leave the completed stubs and the money at the bar or post it to the address on the back of this Jib Sheet.
Best wishes and I hope you enjoy the summer season and use the Club to its full potential.
Jim ShieldsCommodore

Club Success at Cork Week 2010!!

Jibsheet - February 2009

Message from the Commodore

Elsie and I would like to take the opportunity to wish you all a Happy and Prosperous New Year and hope that we will meet all of you during the course of this year.

The Club as a Company

2009 will be an exciting and challenging year for the Club. In 2008, we embarked on some big changes for the Club constitutionally which are on-going. These are in the interests of members and to improve your representation in the Club. Members voted at the Special General Meeting (SGM) on 10th September 2008 for the Club to become a Company limited by guarantee. This was necessary as the Northern Bank indicated that it no longer wanted to act as Trustees for the Club, in line with its general policy.

Clubs under Trustee status cannot hold assets, such as property, as they are not legal entities. The assets are held by the Trustees on behalf of the Club and they cover all liabilities. With the withdrawal of our Trustees, we took legal advice and considered the various options open to the Club. The Club, now being a limited company, will be able to hold assets such as buildings and equipment. Additionally, there are other benefits particularly when it comes to seeking funding for projects. Further information can be obtained from the Hon Secretary on robert.logan@carrickfergussc.org

There will be a further SGM prior to applying for company registration to present the Articles of Association to the membership for approval. The Company Articles of Association reflect the existing Club rules.

New Management Structure

At the SGM on 3rd December 2008 the Club established a new management structure. Previously there were 18 members on the Management Committee which was proving cumbersome and somewhat inefficient. The new Management Board (10 voting members) will oversee the management of the Club and will be responsible for the strategic direction, setting targets, monitoring performance etc.

The new structure will be more effective as it devolves more powers to the working committees – this means that the membership will be able to influence decisions at Board level. We would encourage members to participate in any of the following working Committees - Sailing; Cruising; House and Grounds; Social; Marketing or Fundraising – particularly if you have a special interest or relevant skill. Please contact the Hon. Secretary on robert.logan@carrickfergussc.org

New Facilities

One other exciting initiative that is on-going is the Club’s application for funding under Sport Northern Ireland’s Elite Facilities Programme. This programme was designed to improve facilities for NI Olympic Sports prior to the 2012 Games and to provide a legacy to encourage top class national and international competition and facilities which can be used and enjoyed by the wider community. This is a three stage process and the Club made its Stage 2 submission (business case) at the end of November.

The concept plans are displayed in the Club should you wish to view them. They include a new Clubhouse, training facilities, offices, boat storage, new slipway and a single point crane for launching high performance keel boats. They will also be fully accessible for persons with a disability. If the Club is successful at Stage 2 we will bring a further report to an SGM prior to progression to Stage 3.

Slippi Jin

In Conclusion

Well, as I said this will be an exciting year. The Sailing Programme is full with something for everyone and I hope this will encourage many of you to participate in and enjoy the 2009 sailing season. This, coupled with an exciting social programme, will keep the Club moving forward and provide an attractive range of events that you will support.

Good luck and fair sailing during 2009.

Jim Shields
Commodore

Club Regalia

Club Regalia

WEAR YOUR CLUB WITH PRIDE

POLO SHIRTS Adults £15.00 Youths £13.00 in Navy, Sky Blue, Turquoise, Black, Emerald, Bottle Green

SWEAT SHIRTS Adults £18.00 Youths £15.00 in Navy, Sky Blue, Black, Emerald, Bottle Green

MICRO FLEECE Adults £20.00 Youths £16.00 in Navy, Black, Bottle Green, Grey

All above available in Sizes: 2 years to XXL

LADIES MICRO FLEECE £20.00 in Navy, Sky Blue, Lilac, Black Sizes 6 - 24

The above prices include CSC embroidered LOGO. Additional embroidery charged at approx.£5.00 per logo or name.

To place an order, contact Andrea Windsor: 07775 595 884

Racing 2009

The end of March is only weeks away and our season will start with a pre-race ‘Shake Down’ sail on Sunday 22nd March, an opportunity to make sure everything on board is ready for racing, starting with the Spring Series,

SUNDAY 29th MARCH.

The format of the Spring Series will be morning racing for Flying 15s, SB3, and Dinghies from a committee boat start, followed by the Cruiser racing in the afternoon from the club fixed starting line. Watch club website and notice boards for further information.

The Belfast Lough Yacht Conference has announced the dates of the 2009 regattas as follows: -

• 20th June RUYC
• 27th June CIBC
• 25th July HYC
• 1st August BYC
• 8th August EABC
• 15th August RNIYC
• 22nd August CSC
• 29th August CAYC
• 5th Sept DSC

Two important factors emerge form the BLYC meeting which effect C.S.C members.

1. There is no Ruffian 23 Class start this year. The ruffians will be racing in PY class.

2. No Regatta race inserts will be printed. Members will be able to download inserts direct from C.S.C. club website, or from Belfast Lough Yacht Conference website.

All skippers should check boat details from last year’s club list found on club website, using Boat details link or from last years regatta booklet. Any changes should be made through the Boat details link on club website, www.carrickfergussc.org

Trevor Kirkpatrick, Sailing Secretary

Frosty Series

The Social Scene

Looking Forward (and back!)

Thank you to Iris, Nigel, Julie, Maron, Trevor and Gary McFarland, my 2008 Social Committee, for their support and help throughout the year. They will all serve for another year, giving us continuity, but I am pleased to announce “New blood to generate new ideas for 2009” (and many hands make light work!).

Welcome to Maria Duggan as Social Secretary, with additional committee members Fiona Mitchell, Kate Harland and Joan Miller. There is room for a few more if anyone is interested! And any reasonable suggestions for events will be taken on board. For example, how about ‘Saturday Cinema for Kids’ ?

So far this year we have enjoyed two evening parties. In January we celebrated the 250th aniversary of Robert Burns’ birthday with a dinner, highland dancing and all the ceremony such an occasion requires.

Scottish Dancing Haggis

Then Valentine’s Night on 14th February was immensely enjoyble, good food, good company and good music.

Regular events:

• Tuesday Salsa Classes and Music Sessions
• Wednesday Ballroom Dancing with Lindon and Amy
• Thursday Belly Dancing Classes and CLUB QUIZ
• Friday ‘IN-IT-TO-WIN-IT’ Prize Draw

SOME FUTURE DATES FOR 2009

• Friday 20th Feb Music by George Hewitt
• Friday 27th Feb Poems & Pints
• Friday 13th March Cruising Evening - RNLI Safety Talk
• Friday 20th March Music by George Hewitt
• Friday 27st March Commodore’s Fitting Out Dinner
• Sun 5th April Irish Boat Jumble
• Sat 16th April Easter Bonnets Parade (provisional)
• Sat 27th June Midsummer Ball (provisional)
• Sat 22nd August CSC REGATTA
• Sun 23rd August Castle Cup and Craft Fair

Keep checking the club notice board and web site for updates and new events. All the up-to-date news is sent out to members via email, so if you don’t already receive these from the Hon Sec, Robert Logan, email: robert.logan@carickfergussc.org to be added to the list.

Looking forward to a busy and eventful year at CSC,
Wendy Grant, Chair of Social. Tel: 07752 664 505
email: wendy@carrickmarina.com

House & Grounds

With the sailing season fast approaching House & Grounds are making every effort to ensure CSC and the boat park are clean, tidy, respectable and operational. Work party days are held on a regular basis to complete the numerous jobs which require attention. Volunteers are always welcome as there are jobs for all abilities and more importantly the craic’s great. The website and emails will keep you informed when the next work party day is planned.

Cruising in 2009

Cutters Wharf, April 2008

An outline plan

Looking back on 2008, bad weather spoiled only one of our events, Easter, which was so early in March I wonder we even thought of going to sea. Encouraged by the success of what we did achieve last year, plans for 2009 are slightly more ambitious. . . READ ON!

EASTER 11th - 14th April

Depending on weather, any 2 of Mill Bay, Glenarm, Rathlin, Stranraer

MAY BANK HOLIDAY W/E

B.B.Q on the Copeland Island, Sunday 3rd May

WHIT W/E 29th May - 1ST June

A Friday afternoon/early evening departure for Portpatrick.

MIDSUMMER B.B.Q Sunday 21st June

Venue will depend on wind direction.

LAGAN CRUISE - TBA

If repairs to Lagan Weir permit.

SUMMER CRUISE – July fortnight.

Irish Sea cruise. Possible ports of call, Strangford Lough, Ardglass, Isle of Man, Anglesey, N Wales, Liverpool, Isle of Whithorn, all as weather allows.

TALL SHIPS 13th to 16th August

REGATTA DAY Saturday 22nd August

Details of these and any other day sails/weekends we plan will be published on the web site www.CarrickfergusSC.org and advertised on the club notice boards, or for any further information, contact:

Norman Grant, Cruising Secretary
Tel: 07843 787861
Email: norman@carrickmarina.com

Unpaid Subsciptions for 2009

I would remind Members that Subscriptions are due on 1st January annually. Running costs and bank charges are a continual strain on the Club’s budget, so the income from subscriptions is vital.

Members whose Subscriptions are still unpaid after 17th March 2009 will incur a £25 late payment fee.

Gillian McAdam, Membership Secretary

Boat Park

1. Since Sam Penney retired from the post, we currently have no one managing our boat park. If anyone should be interested in taking on this role or even giving a hand please contact me on 07720 837598 (mobile) or fred.bell@btinternet.com. I (reluctantly!) took over sending out the bills last year and would be prepared to continue to do this if that would encourage someone to come forward to do the other work required.

2. A large number of trailers have NO identification on them. It is a rule of the boat park that some form of identification IS on trailers. So - as I am not psychic ! PLEASE PLEASE take 5 minutes and paint your name or your boat name on the trailers. I have it in mind to ask the committee to introduce a reward of an amount off annual bill for named trailers - and a fine of an additional amount if we find out who unnamed ones belong to!

The boat park is an important revenue earner for the club and I would be grateful for your support in this matter.

3. Members can also go a long way in helping the smooth running of the boat park by “booking” your boat in with as much warning as possible, also please let us know how long you intend to stay out for. In the long term this means the least amount of boat juggling for everyone.

One last request, PLEASE, when you have finished working on your boat, tidy up any waste materials or other rubbish that may have accumulated. It makes for a safer and more pleasant working environment for everyone.

Fred Bell
Honorary Treasurer fred.bell@btinternet.com

Junior Sailing

Junior Sailing

Topper Dinghies Racing Practice

rory@carrickmarina.com

Saturdays 10am - 12.30pm starting after Easter 

Ages 8 years +

Norfolkline Discount for Members

Robert Logan has negotiated a special deal for CSC Members

20% off all Brochure Fares

Daylight Sailing - £60 Single/£100 Return Car + 4

Available 4 Jan - 31 Dec 09 (*£50 supp. Easter, July, August)

Call 0844 499 0007 to book. Offer Code: Carrick

Extracts from the winning log of MotorYacht ‘Ilmatar II’

Ilmatar

They Kept A Welcome In The Hillside ~ When I Went Home Again To Wales

The title of our 2008 cruise to Wales (can be sung if you wish)

Motor Yacht “Ilmatar II” with crew Howard & Maria and Norman & Wendy.

This was my dream of going to Cardiff by our own boat rather than Silver wings shining in the sunlight, however I hadn’t planned on rain, high winds and mutinous crew.

Monday 9th June

Arrived at the boat with a mountain of booze and some food. A night cap with friends and crew and early to bed to be ready for a 10.00am start next day to catch the tide.

Tuesday 10th June

Departed on time and I felt like Bob Harper must of felt when he departed for around the world. Passed Billy in “Charlotte Jane” going to Strangford where I live and just for a short moment thought that common sense should prevail and go there instead, but not known for being sensible we kept her lit. Dolphins and porpoises, calm seas and sunshine, and an uneventful night passage down the Irish Sea heading for Milford Haven.

Wednesday 11th June

All excited we sail into a small bay at Skomer Island to be welcomed by thousands of nesting puffins. The bay was only accessible by sea. Anchor down and lunch was served. Then round to Dale Bay for an overnight on the pontoon in the middle of the bay. Dinghy ashore and we were away to the Griffin Inn to be wined and dined.

Back on the pontoon and time for a night cap when 2 gents from another yacht came and said what a lovely boat we had, this is as you know this is code for ‘can we come aboard for a drink’. That put paid to our early night. p.s. I must get Maria a smaller drinks measure.

Thursday 12th June

7.30am start and we’re off to Swansea. 53nm and 5.50hrs later we arrive and lock in. Sardines in a tin came to mind, severely aggravated by strong wind.The marina is in the old dock with a tram museum, maritime museum and other shops. An evening meal at the sailing club and all agreed that Swansea was a place that we would come back to.

Friday 13th June

0730 and we’re waiting to lock out, thankfully the wind had dropped. Cardiff the next stop or more accurately Penarth Marina. Arriving by sea at the Cardiff Bay barrage was nothing short of spectacular. Quickly into the berth with Champagne corks popping, Maria asks if I’m alright and I tell a little white lie and say “I’ve something in my eye” Full of emotion I had fulfilled my ambition. The best drink of Champagne I’ve ever had.

A boat trip around Cardiff Bay and ashore to visit the continental market in the new hub of Cardiff City. Staying 2 nights in Cardiff enabled the Duggan Clan to descend on “Ilmatar II”. I said to Wendy that she must have found it hard going especially with the Welsh accent, when she reminded me that she done her medical training in Cardiff and was probably more Welsh than I was Irish.

Sunday 15th June

A walk along the sea front and a drink in the Penarth Yacht Club then back on board to depart for Bristol. 38nm later and we’re sailing up the River Avon and the Avon Gorge under Brunel’s suspension bridge, through a lock and swinging bridge and into Bristol Dock, berthing on a pontoon outside one of the many pubs. Yet again it’s time to go out for a meal. Norman had earlier been out sussing out suitable places and had discovered a Tapas bar and restaurant. The ambience and food were great made all the more exciting by the Flamenco music and dancers. When we came to pay the bill there was good news and bad news, the good news was the table next to us had paid our bill, the bad news is we were given their bill for 14 persons. It’s amazing when with a few bottles of wine and a level of frustration just how quickly you can communicate without speaking a word of Spanish. Eventually sorted and by way of an apology we were given a voucher for a meal for 2. Anyone going to Bristol let me know and the meals on me.

Monday 16th June

Another 48 hours in Bristol was scheduled, but a bad weather forecast forced a change of plan, we wanted to be in Milford Haven for Sea Week so left on the tide next afternoon. Got there 12 hours ahead of the gale, many other boats didn’t and the Round Britain Race speed boats came by road!

Sea Week was memorable (a story in itself) and our journey back to Carrickfergus was accomplished in 28 hours with calm, pleasant conditions.

Howard Duggan

2008 News Round-Up

As you will remember, the club was dealt a devastating blow with the death in March of our Commodore, Joe McEvoy. But ‘The King is dead, long live the King’, and life goes on. We were fortunate to have Jim, our new Commodore, to stand in for the year.

On the water, the Sailing Committee organised a comprehensive racing programme, but conceded to public opinion and cancelled racing one Sunday so everyone could join in the Lagan Cruise; 32 vessels and 176 people took part.

Topper Nationals

While the majority of us are doing very ordinary things like racing round the buoys, regattas, cruising and socialising, some others were out there making a name for themselves.

Andrew Penney, First overall in the 4.2 Topper Rig at the 2008 Irish National Championships in Carrickfergus in August. 

Ryan Wilson First Under 16 in the Topper Irish Nationals and 2nd Overall in Topper Travellers

Amanda Mitchell, Gold Medal in Toppers at the Sea Cadets National Regatta in Carrickfergus, September 2008

Chris Penney was 13th in the Laser Radial Worlds in New Zealand and 1st overall in the laser Connaught championships. He is the current Laser Radial Junior Champion.

Ryan Seaton, now studying at the Sports Institute for Nothern Ireland at Jordanstown, is also training there with the Pre-Olympic squad. His first sailing event this year is the Princess Sophia Challenge in Palma, Majorca in April, sailing Laser Radial and we wish him every success in that. He is about to become helm on a 49’er for future events.

Ian Moore who is navigator on the irish entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, Green Dragon.

Four Carrickfergus Juniors were chosen for the 2008 RYA Youth Championships, Ryan Wilson in Toppers, Andrew Penney in 4.2 Toppers (1st in Class), Chris Penney and James Waugh in Laser Radials (2nd and 3rd respectively)

Green Dragon

Volvo Ocean 70 ‘GREEN DRAGON’ at the start of Leg 1 in Alicante. All the VO.70’s will be in Galway from 23rd May, with the In Port race on 30th May and start of Leg 8 on 6th June. For further details: www.galwayvolvooceanrace.com

Millar’s

Catering in the Club for Members and their Guests Bar Snacks, Sunday Lunch & a la carte

Friday Night Special ~ Dinner for Two £25

Starters

Smoked Salmon

Ribbons of smoked salmon set on a bed of homemade potato salad and topped with creme fresh and horseradish drizzle

Soup du jour

Homemade soup of the day with crusty bread

Battered garlic mushrooms

Button mushrooms dipped in a light golden batter served with salad, coleslaw and garlic mayonnaise

Main Course

Chicken supreme

Poached Chicken fillet masked in a mushroom and thyme sauce

Salmon hush puppies

Chunks of fresh salmon fillet lightly battered and drizzled with honey and wholegrain mustard

Gammon

Pan fried gammon steak topped with caramelised apricots.

Selection of Desserts

Our Friday Special Menu will be changed regularly

Booking is recommended. Telephone 07871 844 787

Fleet Formation

A meeting of Flying Fifteen owners was held in the Club premises on 6th April 1959. The purpose of this meeting was to officially form the Flying Fifteen Class in Carrickfergus. The Flying Fifteen Class first appeared in Club Points racing during the 1957 season. At this time there were only three boats in the Class. These belonged to Messrs. J R Caters (Ouna FF 219) H E Caters (Oriole FF 220) and T E M Windsor (Pereja). These three boats had been built during the previous winter months by their owners in a joint effort.

The number of boats has now increased to six – the new owners being J Cambridge (FF 90), J Mercer (FF 174) and J McVea (FF 291)

The meeting was attended by:-

J Cambridge Dar Salaam, Belfast Road, Carrickfergus Cortina FF 90

J Mercer 43 Abbeyville Street, Whiteabbey, Newtownabbey Kerry Dancer FF 174

J R Caters 25 Joymount, Carrickfergus Ouna FF 219

H E Caters 25 Joymount, Carrickfergus Oirole FF 220

T E M Windsor Lower Woodburn, Carrickfergus Pereja FF 221

J McVea Rocklands House, Belfast Road, Carrickfergus Virago FF 291

It was proposed by Mr. J McVea and seconded by Mr. J R Cambridge that Mr. H E Caters act as Secretary. This was passed by the meeting.

It was proposed by Mr. J Cambridge and seconded by Mr. J Mercer that the class be known as – The Flying Fifteen Class, Carrickfergus Sailing Club and that the rules of the class be modelled on those of ‘The Flying Fifteen Class’ – Strangford Lough Yacht Club. The Secretary is to have copies of these prepared as soon as possible. This was passed by the meeting.

The Secretary then reported that the Club had been offered the Flying Fifteen Championships for Northern Ireland – it had been decided to accept this offer. The club committee had asked Mr. H E Caters to act as Championship Secretary and it gave him full powers regarding the organising of the event and also the spending of money to cover the expenses of the championship. The Club Committee had agreed to the formation of a ‘Championship Committee’ for the event. This committee was to consist of all Flying Fifteen Owners plus the following:- Messrs. G F Chambers, Robt. Hilditch, J Murphy, J McKeown and R Sterling.

The Secretary now informed the meeting that a Championship Committee Meeting would be held at the close of this meeting.

Flying Fifteen Championship Meeting - 6th April 1959

The following were present: Messes J Cambridge, J Mercer, J R Caters, H E Caters, T Windsor, J McVea, R Hilditch, J McKeown and R Sterling.

The Secretary reported that he had attended a meeting of Class Secretaries in Belfast. A discussion took place as to what programme would be most suitable for the majority of boat owners. The following dates and times were agreed:-

Tuesday 14th July 1959 11.00 am

Tuesday 14th July 1959 4.00 pm

Wednesday 15th July 1959 3.00 pm

Thursday 16th July 1959 3.00 pm

The best three races are to count and the Olympic Points System will be used. Friday will be used if required owing to cancellation of any of the races due to unfavourable weather conditions. These details were agreed by the meeting.

At this stage it was proposed by Mr. J McKeown and seconded by Mr. J Cambridge that the Secretary approach the Mayor – Alderman Patterson J.P. and ask him if he would present the Trophy at the close of the Championship. This was passed by the meeting.

The meeting then came to an end.

Report on Championship

A number of informal meetings have taken place since our last meeting held on the 6th April 1959. These took place so that final arrangements could be made and also to decide on various outstanding details. I had to approach various people and ask them if they would be prepared to take on such duties as: Officer of the Day, Time-Keeper, Starter, Steward etc. I am pleased to say that everyone I approached proved to be most helpful and as a result the whole event went through practically without a hitch.

A circular was sent out to all club members and in this we asked for their support. There was a special appeal in this circular for the help of our lady members and friends of the club. I attended various meeting held by the ladies and at these arrangements were made for the entertainment of the competitors. No word of praise could be too high for the work put in by this ladies’ committee. Not only did the ladies entertain the competitors by providing them with meals on each of the three days of the event but they also provided snacks for spectators at very reasonable prices. As a result of this good work they were able to hand over the sum of £12-0-0 to Championship funds in addition to the provision of the meals for the competitors and officials.

The members of the Championship Committee were also hard at work. Concrete mooring blocks were made, chains and wire ropes were borrowed and proper moorings were assembled. These were transported to the clubhouse on Thursday 9th July. The race for the Flying Fifteen Class was cancelled and all hands helped with the laying of moorings. This proved to be rather an awkward job as each concrete block weighed over two cwts, and the only boats we had available were the club stage punt and for a short while the Harbour Master’s punt. Twelve moorings were laid on this evening – these were placed on the East side of the reef. I am told that a long time ago boat did use the East side of the reef for an anchorage, but it was the first time I had seen boats moored here. While this work was going on, other members were painting and putting the finishing touches to the clubhouse which was very ‘ship shape’ for the event. Members of the club had loaned us their dinghies for use as course markers and these had to be rigged and suitable mooring made up. A marker was also put out to show the end of the reef. One of our members had been working very hard making ready two amplifying systems. During the event spectators were entertained by gramophone records and were kept informed of the progress of the racing etc, by means of the amplifying system at the starter’s hut on the pier. Another amplifying system had been installed in the clubhouse and this was used to play records and also by the dance band at the Inaugural Dance.

I had a number of meetings with the Mayor of Carrickfergus – Ald. T J Patterson OBE JP and the Town Clerk – Mr. Thos. McVea. The Mayor and Mayoress had volunteered to invite the Yachtsmen and Club Officials taking part in the event ‘to tea’ in the Jubilee Hall on Thursday 16th July and the Mayor also agreed to present the prizes on this same evening. After some discussion it was decided that ‘the tea’ in the Jubilee Hall would be at 7.00 pm and that the Trophy and prizes would be presented in the club house at approx. 9.30 pm. The ‘tea’ would definitely take place on Thursday, but if the racing programme had to be rearranged due to unsuitable conditions, then the Mayor would be available on Friday evening to present the prizes etc.

A very important item was arranging for rescue boats to be available during the races. I wish to put this on record as it as the only item which did not work to plan. I approached Messes Cooke, Davis and Milliken and asked them if they would assist by making their boats available for rescue work. Mr. Milliken’s boat was not ready for launching and after having a discussion with him I decided to assume that it would not be ready in time. Messes Cooke and Davis said they would place their boats at our disposal. In addition to this it was agreed that we should ‘hire’ a boat from Mr. Erskine of Whitehouse. Mr. Erskine very kindly agreed to help us and it was arranged that we would only pay Mr. Erskine’s expenses – i.e. cost of fuel and wages of the man he would put in charge of the boat. Thus on paper we had three boats available until a short time before the championship. At this stage Mr. Cooke informed us that his boat would not be available because some visitors were unexpectedly arriving to stay with him during the championship week. This left us with two boats. At this point, Mr. Fielden approached me and volunteered to help. I expressed my gratitude and he said he would try to be available for as much of the time as possible. I had also spoken to Mr. J Logan, but he was unable to help us as he was going cruising on the championship week. On the first day of the Championship we had three rescue boats accompanying the fleet. These were the boats belonging to Messes Davis, Fielden and Erskine. This was a beautiful calm day an the rescue boats were loaded with spectators, who were thus able to follow the racing at close quarters. On the second day’s racing, we were left with only Mr. Fielden’s boat. The other two boats did not turn up. On the third day the wind was rather fresh and I was very disturbed to find that we had not a single rescue boat available. Mr. Fielden had told me on the previous day that he would not be able to help as he had a previous engagement. When I discovered that neither of the other two boats had turned up, I sent a ‘frantic’ message to Mr. Fielden to ask him if he could possibly help. Once again Mr. Fielden came to our assistance and I can not say just how grateful I was for this. Later Dr. Green’s boat joined Mr. Fielden’s boat to assist in rescue work. It was very good of Dr. Green to turn out in his rather small boat as conditions had got rather rough by this time. Two Flying Fifteens did get into difficulties on this day. I have given the above information in detail so that if the Club decides to sponsor another event such as this, then those people responsible will realise the importance of the rescue boat question. I thought that I had everything adequately arranged especially in view of the fact that we had arranged to have Mr. Erskine’s boat at our absolute disposal – in fact I as left without a single rescue boat at the start of racing on the third day.

The Championship received much publicity. It was reported in the newspapers. A film was taken by TV cameras from Mr. Davis’ launch on the first day of racing and parts of this were shown on TV news on Tuesday. Sound radio also mentioned the event in their ‘Coming Events’ programme and also gave the results at various times.

I had approached the Carrickfergus Silver Band (E McKee Memorial) and asked if it would turn out on the last day of the championship – unfortunately the band was unable to turn out.

An inaugural dance was held on Tuesday evening. This proved to be most enjoyable – the band being particularly good. We just about broke even financially and I think that this was due to the fact that the previous dances held by the club here had ‘flopped’.

The Mayor and Mayoress entertained the crews of the competing yachts and the club officials in the Jubilee Hall on Thursday at 7.00 pm as arranged. The Barn Motor Boat and Sailing Club were represented by Mr. & Mrs. Fielden. The Mayor made a speech welcoming the visitors and club officials. He mentioned how pleased he was that this event had been held in Carrickfergus and said that he saw no reason why we should not press on and hold even bigger events in the near future. He also commented on the progress that had been made in our clubhouse renovation during the past few years. Mr. Patterson then went on to wish those yacht owners present, who were going over to England to compete for the British Isles Championship every success – he hoped that they would be successful in bringing the trophy to Northern Ireland. Mr. Patterson congratulated all those club members and friends who had worked so hard to make this event the great success it had turned out to be. The Mayor was thanked by Mr. W S Milner (vice commodore) on behalf of the club, for his generosity and for the assistance he had given throughout the event.

The presentation of the trophy and prizes was carried out in the Clubhouse. The club commodore – Mr. J O’N McClintock presided and the Mayor presented the prizes. The clubhouse was packed to capacity. The trophy was won by Dr. McAuley, he and his crew were presented with miniature cups. Mr. Kennedy and Mr. Corry received miniature cups for gaining second and third places in the championship. Cups were also presented to the ‘heat’ winners – Dr. McAuley (2 cups for winning first and second races) Mr. Kennedy (1 cup for winning third race) an Mr. Corry (1 cup for winning fourth race). On this occasion the Mayor was thanked by Mr. R A C Henderson (vice commodore). A special meeting of the club committee had been called just prior to the presentation and at this meeting it as decided to make Mr. Patterson and honorary member of the club. Mr. Henderson conveyed this to Mr. Patterson and presented him with a club tie. Mr. Patterson thanked the club for the honour which had been conferred on him and went on to say that he and the Mayoress had enjoyed the past few days very much. The Championship Secretary then briefly thanked all who had helped him and who had worked so hard to make the championship the success it had proved to be.

It now only remains for me to thank all those who helped to make the championship such as success. I should especially like to thank:-

Miss Pat Windsor who did a tremendous amount of work. There was a lot of correspondence – including making out of Entry Forms, Sailing Instructions, letters asking club members and friends for assistance and later sending out letters of thanks to all those people who had helped us. Pat carried out all the work of typing and duplicating as well as approaching various ladies and asking for their assistance.

All those ladies who worked so hard serving meals in the club house an also those who provided sandwiches, pastry etc. Mrs. E Caters, Mrs. Wm. Cushly, Mrs. A Howard, Mrs. H Milner, Mrs. W S Milner, Mrs. McCavana, Mrs. E Reid, Mrs. Wm. Ross, Miss Ross, Miss M Simms, Mrs. E Windsor, Miss P Windsor, Mrs. Woods and Miss E Young worked very hard in the clubhouse during the event.

All those people who gave subscriptions and whose names appear in the list on the previous pages.

Mr. J R Caters for donating materials for making nine concrete mooring blocks – for making these blocks and also loaning the club a further three blocks.

The members of the Championship Committee who worked so hard behind the scenes.

The people who acted as Officers during the races.

The Vice Commodores – Messrs. J McKeown, R A C Henderson and W S Milner – who proved to be a tower of strength.

Mr. Wm. Robinson, who helped me with my secretarial duties. Indeed it was he who really got this properly organised. He also acted as a clubhouse steward.

Mr. J Milliken who made a very good "Championship Porter".

Mr. E Windsor who worked hard behind the scenes and who also acted as clubhouse steward.

Mr. T E M Windsor who provided and installed the two amplifying systems.

Mr. V Fielden who turned out during the racing each day in his motor launch for rescue work. He also helped by taking out the marks before racing commenced. I asked Mr. Fielden if he would allow us to at least pay for the fuel which had been used, but he would not hear of this – he asked that we accept this as a subscription.

Mr. Davis, Mr. Erskine and Dr. Green for providing their boats at various times during the championship.

Mr. Jack Cambridge for donating the hard board which was used to make ‘diamonds’ for the course marks.

I should like to conclude by thanking the Mayor and Mayoress – Alderman Thomas J Patterson OBE, JP and Mrs. Patterson for receiving the Officials of the Club and the yachtsmen taking part in the Championships and entertaining them to tea in the Town Hall. Ald. Patterson and Mrs. Patterson also honoured us with their presence whilst racing was in progress. He also presented the trophy and prizes at the clubhouse. I should also like to thank the Town Clerk Mr. Thomas McVea for the assistance he gave me in organising the programme – he was extremely helpful.

H E Caters

Hon. Secretary

Championship Committee