Hello all,

This Weekend we are going to try and squeeze in three races, two of which will most likely be on a shortened course, to complete the full Hurricane Series.

The Hurricane Series is a handicap series meaning that in addition to PY boat ratings each sailors' personal sailing ability is taken into account thereby affording even the least experienced sailor an equal chance of winning the trophy.

The first race this Sunday will start at 14h00 sharp on an incoming tide that, coupled with the moderate wind and sunshine forecast for this weekend, means sailing conditions will be good for all sailors.

The Sailing Last Weekend, that was dedicated to the memory of Nancy Norton, would certainly have made Nancy extremely proud. I doubt any sailor could wish for a better farewell as that which was afforded Nancy by so many members and friends. On behalf of RYC and Nancy's family a sincere thank you to everybody for making it such a special day.

Sailing School For Existing Members will be from 10h00 this Sunday only and not also on Saturday as advertised in last weeks newsletter.

With just one week left till the East Cape Provincial regatta this weekend is your last opportunity to get some qualified advice and coaching - no matter how good and experienced a sailor you think you are.

Our Club coach, Steve Arnold, and his assistants will evaluate each member attending sailing school this Sunday and together determine a personal program for each sailor - an opportunity to improve not to be missed by anyone.

Sailing School For New and Prospective Members begins on Sunday 04 October and with so much interest already registered, especially by prospective new junior members, this year is going to be very busy both on and off the water.

Steve will be calling on many of our more experienced sailors to assist with the coaching and to act as mentors for our new members still learning how to sail. Please support both Steve and your Club by offering a little of your time to assist in this regard.

The NOR for the Eastern Cape Provincial Regatta is posted on the Club notice board and anyone intending to enter should please contact me so that assistance with boat transport and accommodation may be arranged where required. All RYC members are encouraged to participate in this event at a venue that last year proved itself to be both superb and safe.

Entry to this provincial event is open to all sailor including novices. More information and online entry for the East Cape Provincial championship regatta is posted at www.onlines.co.za/ecchamps/

Nominations for the RYC Junior Sub-Committee need to be called for from our junior members. The junior sub-committee will report directly to the Club executive and will be largely responsible for managing themselves.

There will be real responsibility associated with each portfolio that will be clearly explained prior to nominations being called for. Each nominee will then have three weeks to demonstrate to their peers that they are willing and able to fulfill the responsibilities associated with their nominated position prior to the formal election that will take place by way of secret ballot on Sunday 11 October.

Parents of our junior members are requested to please allow them time to attend their meeting, that should not last longer than 30 minutes, in the junior club room after the sailing this Sunday.

The Galley is still seeking a few more volunteers willing and able to assist with catering / serving of teas during Club events. Volunteers, who will be only be expected to offer just a few hours one Sunday a month, must please make themselves know to either myself or Rhona Clark as soon as possible.

I look forward to another great weekend of sailing and to you joining us for the racing at Redhouse this Sunday.

Yours in sailing

PAUL PETTITT
Commodore
041 581-5394