Page 9 - Masthead - Salcombe Yacht Club 2019 Yearbook

the normal complement per patrol boat is 2 persons. Therefore, unless conditions are expected to be undemanding, members allocated to patrol boat duties should recruit their own crew for that duty.
While on the subject of patrol boats,
the decision was taken earlier this year to retire Audrey Petit and Shirley Tyler (SYC1 and SYC2). Replacement Humber RIBS in eye-catching orange and bearing the same names were fitted out by Chris Winzar and Sam Viles and blessed by Father Daniel
in July and duly entered service in time for Merlin Week. Elizabeth Jennings (SYC3)
is due to be retired early next year, with a similar Humber rib replacement planned.
Much of my predecessor’s report in
last year’s Masthead addressed the
safety aspects of sailing and racing in
the ria and safe and considerate conduct while on the water. Rather than repeat it I would urge you to reflect upon your own attitude toward water safety. In a world of increasing regulation, it behoves all of us to ensure through our own actions that we don’t unnecessarily endanger ourselves
or others, lest our freedom be curtailed by unwanted regulation. When sailing, the
SYC IS BLESSED WITH ITS IMPRESSIVE CLUBHOUSE, AND SPECTACULAR VIEWS
provision of patrol boats is no guarantee that they will be on hand when you most need one. The decision to participate
in a race is yours alone. When driving a patrol boat, remember that you are in control of a potentially lethal weapon. In the wrong circumstances, you could find yourself held responsible for an accident when attempting a rescue. The club runs regular powerboat training courses (RYA Powerboat Stage 2), which should be regarded as the minimum qualification for driving one of the club’s patrol boats.
Although SYC is blessed with its impressive clubhouse, and spectacular views (the best views in Salcombe, some say The World!), the club is hampered by the lack of its own car parking or boat park. We are therefore highly dependent on the Batson car and boat parks, without which our ability to get our boats on the water, run our events and regattas, and ultimately
our ability to attract sailing members, could be severely restricted. South Hams District Council have aspirations to develop “The Dump” for a range of uses beyond its current purpose. The club is monitoring these developments and will be working
to ensure that the Club’s interests are protected and where possible enhanced in whatever masterplan comes forward from the Council and its consultants.
This report started with a reference to the London Dinghy Show. SYC wasn’t represented in 2018 but intends to have a stand-in 2019, jointly with the Salcombe Yawl Owners Association. We hope to arrange a dinner or similar for members who make the trek, so put it in your diary for next year (2nd and 3rd March).
Andy Savell
Rear Commodore Sailing
Fleet Reports 7