Hello all! Last weekend we saw the first races of this year taking place in the glorious sunshine and gentle breeze.

Despite the lack of wind, 12 boats took to the water to compete in the first race (well, drift) of the season. As the five-minute countdown began, there was enough wind to tootle back and forth behind the start line.

When the ‘go’ signal sounded, the boats forced their way over the line to start the race and the beat up to Monkstone.

However, the wind soon dropped off even more, leaving many stranded on the broad reach from Monkstone to Amroth.

As the tide turned, many boats were forced to retire as the tide was sending them out faster than they could sail in!

Seven boats managed to round the Amroth buoy and begin the reach back to the harbour.

Paul and Julia in the RS200, Nick in the Osprey, Ed in the RS100 and Mark in the Aero sailed well and were able to return to the harbour fairly swiftly, leaving Hywel and Thomas in the Laser 2000 and James and Rosie in Laser Radials trailing behind.

James accused Rosie of cheating by saying she must have an outboard attached to her boat, as she managed to sneak up on James and the 2000 very quietly!.

Rosie and the 2000 eventually stalled over the line, but whilst James fought valiantly, he did not finish the race. Overall, Ed came first, followed by Mark in second, with Paul and Julia in third.

Thanks as always to Maurice and Eirwen on OOD duty and to Keith, Frank and Paul U on rescue cover. Even though it was not the most exciting race, it was a good opportunity to dust off the cobwebs and remind ourselves how to sail.

Preparations for the Wiseman’s Bridge Rowing Club league race on April 29 are well underway. This year, there is even a team coming all the way from Italy to join in the fun! The rowers are back out on the water this week, so they can start practising.

The refurbishment of the clubhouse is almost complete. The new carpet will be fitted this week and then it will be finished.

A huge well done to all who have given up their time to help. It looks amazing.

The next two races of the season will take place tomorrow (Saturday) starting at 4.30 pm. See you there.

Gypsea Girl