Local crew in Fastnet Race

Former Club Member and Foredeck (Wo)man Una MacGabhann will be participating in the Fastnet Race which starts on Sunday 14 August 2011, and we wish her fair winds and success! You can follow the race live on-line by clicking on this link : http://fastnet.rorc.org/2011-fleet-tracking.html. If that does not work click here and try to enter from there: http://fastnet.rorc.org/blog/race-information/tracking/index.html.

Her boat info:
FRA 35425, Snsp Hakuna Matata, Class 4, IRC 1.005, Jean-francois Nouel, Sun Fast 3200, White.

Why not try the virtual race and see if you can beat the fleet from the comfort of your cosy homes.

Lough Swilly Regatta Series – Skippers and First Mates Briefing

Hi all

Someone down at the club recently said to me, ‘’losers quit when they’re tired, winners quit when they’ve won!’’

Aggressive stuff. It must be regatta weekend!! And so a quick update on the weekend events.

Catering throughout the weekend will be provided by Café B-Calmed. Their extended opening hours over the weekend are:

Friday                   12noon to 5pm
Saturday              7am to 8pm [last orders 8pm sharp!!]
Sunday                7am to 8pm [last orders 8pm sharp!!]
Monday               7am to 6pm

In addition to their regular menu, Jane has confirmed the following evening dishes, all priced under €7!:

Saturday: Lasagne / Chilli / Pizza [salad and garlic bread sides]
Sunday: Lasagne / Beef Curry / Pizza [with salad and garlic bread sides]

Don’t forget that Jane can also organise any day pack requirements. Please phone ahead on 00353 87967 5360

This year I’m also hosting a welcome reception on the Friday evening in honour of all those boat futerers who love nothing more than prepping their boat the day before a big weekend, and for all honoured visiting crews.

I’ll be lighting the BBQ at 7 and there’ll be a bucket or two of complimentary ice cold beers for the early attendees. Expect a few rolling stone / beach boy tracks too…. Just to confirm, there is no entry fee for the welcome reception so everyone is welcome!

We will also be accepting any registration fees.

Of course, the highlight of the weekend ought to be the Saturday nite…and in honour of this auspicious occasion, I have procured a new shirt!…and I am calling on all gentlemen members to follow my lead and make a big effort. Lets leave the wellies and oilies on the boats and get the faces moisturized, the armpits sprayed and the hair neatly combed. For too long the lady members and guests have put up with our sea dog looks.

I am therefore calling for a parade of shirts at 9pm, with a winner announced at the prizegiving.  One class for all styles. Disco tunes starting from 10pm onwards.

I am also delighted to confirm that the Inish Times sailing correspondent Ben Swift is also updating his Runners & Riders piece for the weekend.  I’ll forward it on once it comes through.

Looking forward to seeing you all at the weekend. In the meantime, good luck with the boat prepping, and remember,  a fast boat is a happy boat!

Paul J Hasson
Commodore

Regatta Arrangements – preliminary notice

FRIDAY EVENING:
Welcome reception and registration in the clubhouse from 7pm-10pm. The bar will be open.
Regatta Weekend Entry Fee 30 euros
Classes for IRC and Club fleets.
Class racing and White Sail class where 3 or more entries.

SATURDAY:
Olympic style racing, 2-3 races, first race 10.00am HW 06:38

Start at or near Spit
Cafe B-Calmed catering for breakfast, and evening to 8pm
Prize-giving, music and bar open until late.

SUNDAY:
Round the Lough racing, 2 races, first race 11.00am HW 07.21

Start at or near Spit
Cafe B-Calmed catering for breakfast, and evening to 8pm
Prize-giving and bar open until later.

MONDAY:
Olympic style racing, 2 races, first race 11.00am HW 08:02
Start at or near Rathmullan Pier
Prize-giving in the White Harte after racing.

Melmore Rally and Commodore’s Inspection

The Melmore Rally takes place this weekend, and as has been tradition for many years, the Commodore shall make his inspection! I have consulted a number of past commodores in the last few days and amassed an interesting checklist. I look forward to conducting my enquiries in an orderly fashion and expect all Skippers and First Mates to allow me the freedom to dig into whatever nook and cranny I deem necessary.

Skippers and First Mates will also be required to answer a number of questions, and where appropriate, take instruction from their Commodore. To help put you at ease however, a few tips in advance:

  • Ensure the toilet is serviced when used. Some first impressions last!
  • Skipper and First Mate should be presentable. Slurred speech, waywardness on foot and general awkwardness will be penalized.
  • Bad language will be considered in its context..but if in doubt, leave it out.
  • Offer the Commodore a seat. Don’t have me loitering in the gangway!
  • Bonus points for party pieces [time LSYC got into the City of Culture spirit].

Now while the inspection is by no mean a food and drink event, its probably just as well to let you know that the Commodore prefers iced cold beer, carrot cake, caramel squares and expensive whiskey. Hot food is also well favoured.

As the Commodore’s boat will not be making this trip, I am being driven to Melmore by land. I will therefore require pick up in Melmore. If anyone is therefore travelling with a tender and can come ashore, then let me know. In the meantime, continue with your preparations.

Paul J Hasson Commodore

Ps good luck to the LSYC crack team competing in the Dun Laoghraie Championships this weekend. I noticed a few vodka bottles in the luggage bags…elite sportsmen!!