Gluyas Motor Group Series Race One 31 Jan   2021   A fleet of 9 boats signed up for the first race of the Gluyas Series on a day with a steady north northeasterly wind.  Unfortunately Lightly Oiled had to withdraw before the start due to gear failure.  The other boats must have been watching the Prada Cup racing and there was a very tight start  with one boat being recalled due to being over the line.   Transition were on form and got to the windward mark, Lushingtons, first , followed by Meltdown. On the long downwind run to Wainui , Snatch & Astruso showed their speed and took over the lead relishing the 12-14 knot northerly breeze. One Way Prestart- photo courtesy of Jane Transition heading off for a good race- photo courtesy of Paul Drake Afterglow heading to Green Point- photo courtesy of Tim RIchardson The fleet leaving Childrens Bay- photo courtesy of Jane  Astruso heading for Wainui- photo courtesy of Paul Drake Snatch heading to Green Point- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson The fleet then sailed down to Tikao, back to Wainui &  then up to Childrens Bay. One Way and Afterglow were the best performers in the second half of the race and slowly caught up to those in front. Afterglow well balanced upwind – photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Armalite leading One Way out of start- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson   Ross paddling the Whaka – photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Line   honours this week went to Snatch followed by Astruso with Transition third.  On handicap it was One Way first, followed by Afterglow and then Transition.       Sailing for Long Weekend Sunday 7th February- Grand Hotel Coastal Series Pompeys Race Start time is 12pm and all entrants must satisfy Cat4  YNZ Safety Regulations Monday  8th February Mark Foy Series Race2 The start time for the scratch boat is 2pm. All start times will be available at the startbox Messages From AYC Commodore Presidents Cup/ Canterbury Keel Boat Championships:  March 27, 28 2021   After discussion with Naval Point Yacht Club the AYC Racing committee have decided to change the dates of the Presidents Cup, to be raced in Akaroa, to March 27th & 28th.  This Championship was originally scheduled to be sailed over the weekend of March 13 & 14 but these dates clash with the Americas Cup finals.  Club racing scheduled for the weekend of March 27 & 28 will now be raced over March 13 & 14. Your racing committee will carefully watch the Americas Cup schedule and work hard to have our racing that weekend completed in time for us to come ashore and watch the Americas Cup races at the club rooms! Club Night Friday February 5th 6PM A reminder to club members that we hold club night from 6  PM of the first Friday of the month throughout the racing season. This month Noel McGuigan has kindly offered  to talk about his Atlantic Crossing.     Jetty Repairs Workday:    Wednesday Feb 10th Further repairs to jetty piles are planned for Feb 10th.  Professional divers will be employed  for the technical stuff but we are looking for volunteers to  come down to the club on that day to lend a hand. If  you can help out please contact Charl Chaney   charl@akaroa.net    for details.     Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers Two Handed Series Race 2 Jan 23 2021   Sunshine , warm temperatures and a light breeze swinging between North & Nor-west greeted the 6 boats racing the two handed series on Saturday.  Patience, skill, and good fortune were required to keep the boats moving in very light breezes. Snatch, Astruso and Meltdown managed to drift a little more quickly and opened a gap on the rest of the fleet.   Then the southerly change struck and the final two legs of the race became a battle to stay in control. Short- handed sailing becomes hard work in 25 knot breezes!   Snatch managed to stay in the lead  to  take out line honours followed by Astruso and then Meltdown. Further back Hyperactive and One Way enjoyed a great battle over the line with Hyperactive winning out by just 4 seconds.  On handicap placings it was Snatch followed by Meltdown and then Astruso.     Finishing order photos – courtesy of Jane  Oborns Nautical Supplies  Series Race 5 &6 Jan 24  2021   The final 3 races of the Oborn’s Nautical series were scheduled for Sunday 24.  In the event light winds meant Race 7 was abandoned.  As 6 races had been completed in the series by this stage boats were able to discard their worst result prior to the overall results being calculated.   Race 5, the first of the day, was sailed in a light Southerly breeze which dropped away completely as the fleet approached mark 8, the Kaik. When the expected northerly breeze finally arrived Snatch and Astruso were the first to catch it and took out first and second places over the line followed by Meltdown. On handicap Snatch  took out the double. Meltdown and  Afterglow sailed well in the light conditions coming in second and third on handicap. Peter on Armalite looking for breeze- photo courtesy of Paul Drake  Afterglow with tight cover on One-Way leaving the Kaik- photo courtesy of Paul Drake Armalite leaving the Kaik- photo courtesy of Paul Drake Race 6 , the final race in the Oborns series was sailed in a welcome & steady Northerly breeze. The start was a tight one with Afterglow, Meltdown, Snatch and Astruso closely packed together. Snatch and Astruso close together in race5- photo courtesy of Jane Snatch returning from Mark3- photo courtesy of Jane Armalite approaching the finish- photo courtesy of Bill McSweeney The short course took the fleet up  to Mark 3 , Lushingtons, and back to the kaik and then .   Snatch managed to hold on to a narrow lead over Astruso to take out line honours, followed Meltdown in third place. On handicap it was Meltdown first, followed by Afterglow and Astruso third. Final confirmation of these results is subject to a protest committee meeting to be held next weekend.   Overall Meltdown were winners of the Oborns series with Astruso second and One Way third. We are very grateful to Oborns Nautical for sponsoring this series.       Sailing Next Weekend Gluyas Motor Group Series Race1 Sunday 31st January First race in this series with a scheduled start time of 2pm for a harbour race. Oborns Nautical Supplies  Series Race 4   The fourth race in the Oborn’s Series, the long harbour race, was sailed on Sunday 17th.  Seven Yachts lined up for a start in a rising Northerly which made for really good sailing (or as one sailor put it – that’s a bit like hard work when you get to my age). Astruso led the fleet round the first mark, with Meltdown & Transition next round and enjoying close racing.  Meltdown and Transition heading for the Kaik as Astruso sails back- photo courtesy Jane Penzance cruising to the Kaik – photo courtesy of Jane Penzance comfortable under Spinnaker- photo courtesy Jane Transition passing Wainui- photo courtesy Bill McSweeney Erich concentrating on the spinnaker- photo courtesy of Bill McSweeney Snatch sailing the angles- photo courtesy of Jane As  the wind built so did the excitement. One Way tried to leave their spinnaker behind and not to be outdone Snatch went close to losing a member of crew. The final gybe rounding of Mark 8 (The Kaik) had all the boats struggling to stay in control. Over the finish line Astruso took out line honours, followed by Meltdown and then Transition. On handicap it was Meltdown first followed by Penzance and then One Way. Handicap times, (see below) were remarkably close for a race lasting over 2 hours. Back at the club rooms after racing we watched  the drama unfold of the Prada cup  on TV.  What an amazing sight!  The yacht club is a great communal venue for watching the sailing so come &  join us again next Sunday either to sail or to watch sailing.   Sailing Next Weekend   Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers Two Handed Series Race2 Saturday 23rd January This series includes a discard once 5 races have been sailed Oborns Nautical Series Races 5, 6 and 7 Sunday 24th January This is the final weekend of the Oborn’s series with three short races starting at 1300.A discard will be included once 6 races have been sailed Americas Cup Raffle Results Drawn 10th January Tony Mason Willie Newman Peter Gluyas Big thanks to all that bought tickets and supported the club. Akaroa Dolphins Series:  January 9 & 10 2021 Races 1 & 2 Race 1 of the series  started after a  short   delay in light  Southerly winds, warm temperatures and sunshine. Snatch made the best of the light conditions and rounded the first mark (mark 9) before the winds dropped then turned to the north.  Astruso and Meltdown were the next boats to pick up the wind but by this stage Snatch had a big lead on the fleet. Further back  Transition and Shibbeen made up the rest of the fleet.   Snatch held on to their  lead to take out line honours while Astruso and Meltdown had a close tussle for second over the line with Astruso coming in narrowly ahead. On handicap it was Snatch first, Meltdown second and Astruso third.  Snatch and Transition chasing Astruso out of French Farm- Photo courtesy of Jane The wind had shifted to the Nor-west by the time the 5 boats sailed race two which involved a course to French Farm & back. Transition made the best of wind & tide by sailing on the Red Point side of the harbour and was up the front of the fleet with Astruso & Snatch.  On line honours  Astruso came in ahead of Snatch with Transition third. On handicap it was Transition first followed by Astruso and then Snatch. Races 3 & 4   Day 2 of the Akaroa Dolphins Regatta brought more beautiful sailing weather with light – moderate winds from the north. It was great to have 3 more boats join the fleet, One Way, Armalite and Limited Addition. Sailing though the Glen- photo courtesy of Jane Race 3 started with a heavily favoured pin end of the line and quite a lot of congestion and noise as Snatch attempted a port tack start to the dismay of some of the other boats. By mark 2 there was the now familiar pattern of Snatch in the lead , followed by Astruso and then Meltdown. Further back Transition, One Way , Shibbeen and Armalite held their own race within the race. Over the line Snatch came across first followed by Astruso and then Meltdown , with the order changing only a little on handicap with Snatch first, followed by Meltdown and then Astruso.  Snatch hoisting the spinnaker- photo courtesy Jane The beautiful weather continued for the final race of the day. The course was longer than race 3 with the inclusion of Mark8 but the outcome was very much the same as race 3 with Snatch taking a good lead on the fleet, pursued by Astruso and then Meltdown and these boats taking out the first 3 placings over the line. On handicap the results were similar to race 3  with Snatch first followed by Meltdown and then Astruso.   Shibeen and Armalite enjoyed a great tussle in race 4 with Shibbeen just ahead on both line honours and handicap times. Overall winner of the Akaroa Dolphins series was Snatch with Meltdown second and Astruso third. Special thanks to our race sponsor for the series, Akaroa Dolphins. They deserve our support and that of our family and friends visiting beautiful Akaroa. Mary preparing the BBQ- photo courtesy Kevin McSweeney George Waghorn representing sponsor Akaroa Dolphins presenting prizes- photos courtesy of Kev Kerr. Oborns Nautical Series Race4 Sunday 17th January This weekend is a long harbour race with a start-time of 1300   Limited use of AYC Jetty Limited use of the jetty will be available for race days over the next 2-weeks subject to the following conditions: – Boats can only tie up to the outermost angled section of jetty for the purpose of transferring crew -The steps in this section of jetty can be used to access boats -Pedestrian access is available along the total jetty -No usage of the jetty is available during high winds Juniors Sailing Day Dec 30th Our annual Juniors sailing day ran again this year between Christmas & New Year. 30 smiling juniors and their parents were welcomed aboard Regardless, Astruso, Meltdown, Transition and One Way. The main focus of the afternoon was to give the juniors a chance simply to ‘muck around in boats’ and the weather obliged with sunshine and a steady breeze. The story of the afternoon is best told in photos!    Juniors having fun on Astruso- photo credit of Jim Palmer The One Way Crew  The Guthrey Plate:  January 1st 2021 Our 2021 sailing program started on a high this year with sunshine, a steady Northerly breeze and 12 boats on the start line. It was great to welcome some visiting boats from Dunedin and Lyttleton. We were also delighted to see Gabriella out again with her old original crew for a final ‘swan song’ before she is sold to new owners.  Gabriella preparing for the last race with present owners- photo credit of Jane A downwind start and light winds kept the fleet closely bunched all the way  to the Heads Buoy. We don’t see much of Farrst Forward in other races but they were notable for some close quarters match racing manoeuvres at times! (some ‘young guns’ aboard pushing the skipper to mix it up we are told!) Farrst Forward Sailing Away- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson  Great Sailing Conditions- photo courtesy of Kev Kerr On the way home from the heads the steady Northerly wind held and Snatch pulled ahead of the fleet with Astruso in pursuit. Farrst Forward and One Way enjoyed a close tussle for position followed by Meltdown, Transition and Gabriella. The Fleet heading back from the Heads- Photo Courtesy of Nick Walls   Rounding the Heads Mark- photo credit Jane Astruso Sailing away from Heads Mark- photo credit Jane Snatch held on to their lead to take out line honours  with Astruso second over the line and Farrst Forward third. On handicap One Way were the winners with Snatch second and Meltdown third. Snatch are the winners of the Guthery Plate (One Way being ineligible for the trophy due to non AYC skipper) Prizes for the first three boats were donated and presented by Peter Guthrie on behalf of the Guthrey family. Thank you very much Peter. Mark Foy Race 1 – Sunday 3 January 2021  Sunday was another superb  day  for sailing with sunshine, mild temperatures and a good breeze from  the north. Special thanks to our starter Kevin and Kit Grigg who worked hard prior to the race calculating start times which saw Hyperactive and Penzance start on scratch, Meltdown 3 minutes later, Transition 2 minutes after that and Snatch chasing 10 minutes further back. Penzance and Hyperactive managed to hold onto their lead on the fleet for most of the race but were finally passed by Meltdown and Transition with just two legs left to sail.   On the final beat to the finish line Transition tried hard to chase down Meltdown in the lead but without success. Final placings Meltdown first, Transition second and Penzance third, with Hyperactive and the Lightly Oiled  close behind. Snatch had the unfamiliar role of being the last boat over the line  with their 15 minute starting handicap too much to overcome. Race 2 of the Mark Foy series is scheduled for Feb 8th.  Upcoming Sailing Twilight Race 5pm Wednesday 6th January A short ‘social’ race which can be sailed either spinnaker or non-spinnaker (handicaps will be adjusted accordingly). The bar will be open afterwards, and its BYO for snacks. Akaroa Dolphins Regatta Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th January 1pm Two races each day with 1pm start and second race to follow Cancelled Peraki Race 20 December 2020 The Peraki Race scheduled for Sunday was cancelled due to a lack of entries. Several sailors commented that holding a long race this close to Christmas was a reason for the lack of entries. Alternative scheduling for the Peraki Race will be considered for next seasons programme In the meantime the Peraki Race for this season will be rescheduled  to the 7 March 2021 (in lieu of the 5 mile out race)  Upcoming Sailing after Christmas The Race Committee would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing plenty of boats out in the events below. Juniors Day- Wednesday 30th December This event starts at 1400 all juniors are welcome for a fun afternoon sailing on Keelboats. We are calling out for boat owners to make themselves available together with sufficient crew to handle their boat. The bar and BBQ will be open afterwards. The Guthrey Plate- New Years Day The Heads Race for the Guthrey Plate is scheduled to start at 1300. A Heads turning mark will be laid on the day. This event often attracts the largest fleet of the season Informal Harbou’r Race- 2nd January Course to be set on the day with emphasis on sailing into all parts of the harbour. Start is at 1400 Mark Foy Race- 3rd January A fun race with points towards the AYC Mark Foy Trophy. Start is at 1400 Twilight Race- Wednesday 6th January Short race starting at 1700 Akaroa Dolphins New Year Regatta -9th & 10th Jan Two short harbour races each day with the first race scheduled to start at 1300. It is proposed that boats without a PHRF handicap can participate in these events based on AYC assigned handicaps (but will not be eligible for trophies). Also handicaps will be adjusted for boats that do not wish to use a spinnakers. The bar and BBQ will be operating after each days sailing and prizes will be awarded for the best performed boats on the day Oborns Nautical Supplies  Series Race 3  Dec 13th 2020 The forecast was for strong southerlies around 25kts gusting to 30knts which was pretty much correct. Astruso, Transition, One Way and Meltdown came to the start line and all  enjoyed an exciting race. The course was from Green Point to Lushingtons 3 times and then to the finish, which was completed by the winning boat in just under 2 hours. Astruso won the start, was first to Green Point, and then was the only boat to carry a spinnaker throughout the race, which they managed flawlessly, resulting in a win both on line and handicap The remainder of the fleet had a close tussle with each boat having a period leading. By the last rounding of Green Point Meltdown was ahead with Transition and One Way following. However,  One Way hoisted  their spinnaker for the short leg to the finish and came within one second of grabbing  second place on handicap Astruso heading away from Green Point- Photo courtesy of One Way Crew Astruso heading to Green Point with the remainder of the fleet well astern- photo courtesy of Jane Meltdown heading to Lushington- Photo courtesy of One Way crew Meltdown taking out reef- photo courtesy of One Way Crew TIm Richardson enjoying it- Photo courtesy of One Way crew One Way Crew relaxing- Photo courtesy of One Way crew Gull winging on One Way- Photo courtesy of One Way crew One Way completing a tack- photo courtesy of One Way Crew Racing This Weekend Sunday December 20th  1200hrs: Peraki Race- Race1 of Grand Hotel Coastal Series Note that Safety Cat4 applies Racing over New Year Period  A series of on the water events is scheduled for the Holiday Season as summarised below. Friday December 30th- Juniors sailing starting at 1400.  Friday 1st January- Heads race for Guthrey Plate starting 1300 Saturday 2nd January- Fun Race with course to be set on the day- starting at 1400 Sunday 3rd January- Mark Foy Harbour Race starting at 1400 Wednesday 6th January- Twilight race starting at 1700 Saturday 9th, Sunday 10th January Akaroa Dolphins Regatta with first race at 1300 each day It is proposed that boats without a PHRF handicap can participate in these events based on AYC assigned handicaps (but will not be eligible for trophies). Also handicaps will be adjusted for boats that elect not to use a spinnaker Further details on the race and prize formats  will be provided in the coming weeks. Jetty Repairs The repair of the jetty is well underway with 8 piles completed today and the remainder planned for tomorrow. A big team of AYC volunteers under the  guidance of Brent Shipman are undertaking this major project. Concrete mixing by hand Plastic Formwork in place In order to protect the repaired piles from damage whist the concrete is hardening the jetty will be unavailable to tie boats to or access until further notice. The Main Akaroa wharf will be available for transfers to and from boats on race days and at other times Oborns Nautical Supplies  Series Race 2  Dec 6th 2020 A fleet of 7 boats lined up for the second race in the  Oborns Series in a breezy Nor-Easterly which provided excellent sailing conditions throughout the afternoon. The course was no17 which is around 13.5NM with legs between Children’s Bay, Green Point, the Kaik and Lushingtons. Astruso  and Transition had the best of the start and stayed in the lead until the finish. It was noted that these two carried mast head spinnakers in sometimes testing conditions.  Astruso and Transition leading from Mark2 early in the race- Photo courtesy of Dean Lamb Transition and Astruso between Lushingtons and the kaik- photo courtesy of Dean Lamb Transition heading to the Kaik in a good gust- photo courtesy of Dean Lamb The remainder of the fleet had some close tussles and Penzance in their first outing in this series sailed well. Penzance heading to the Kaik- photo courtesy of Dean Lamb One Way sailing away from Green Point, and securing spinnaker- Photo courtesy of Dean Lamb Lightly Oiled beating to Lushingtons- Photo courtesy of Dean Lamb Meltdown heading to the Kaik- photo courtesy of Dean Lamb Armalite on the wind- Photo courtesy of Dean Lamb Astruso after guard enjoying the sail- photo courtesy of Jane Astruso took out line honours, with Transition second and Meltdown third. On handicap Transition were rewarded for a good race from start to finish with first place, followed by Meltdown and Astruso.   Hopefully we will see Snatch back on the water in the near future but in the meantime special thanks to Dean Lamb who provided some excellent  closeup photos of the racing. Racing This Weekend Sunday December 6th  1400hrs: Oborns Nautical Series Race 3 Racing over New Year Period  A series of on the water events is scheduled for the Holiday Season as summarised below. Friday December 30th- Juniors sailing starting at 1400.  Friday 1st January- Heads race for Guthrey Plate starting 1300 Saturday 2nd January- Fun Race with course to be set on the day- starting at 1400 Sunday 3rd January- Mark Foy Harbour Race starting at 1400 Wednesday 6th January- Twilight race starting at 1700 Saturday 9th, Sunday 10th January Akaroa Dolphins Regatta with first race at 1300 each day It is proposed that boats without a PHRF handicap can participate in these events based on AYC assigned handicaps (but will not be eligible for trophies). Also handicaps will be adjusted for boats that elect not to use a spinnaker Further details on the race and prize formats  will be provided in the coming weeks.  Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers 2-Handed Series Series  Saturday 28th December After some windy &  wet  weather in recent weeks it was great to see six crews turn up on a mild & sunny  day for race 1 of the two handed series. The  race started in light southerly winds and the Officer of the Day kindly set a relatively short   course  between mark 9, Lushingtons and the Kaik.   Astruso and Snatch were first over the start line and led the fleet thereafter. Further back there was close competition between Hyperactive, One Way , Transition and Afterglow. Start of 2 handed race- photo courtesy of Kev Kerr By  the time the boats were on leg two the wind had shifted 180 degrees round to the north and Astruso and Snatch managed to extend their lead.  There was some impressive spinnaker handling on the  downwind leg given the demands of short- handed sailing.  Hyperactive chasing One Way- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson The crew of One Way even managed to find time to take some photos!  Tim Anderson looking to improve the speed reading- Photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Astruso sailing well- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson After  some close match racing with Snatch on the final leg it was Astruso who took out line honours, with Snatch second and Hyperactive third.  On handicap Astruso took out a well-deserved double with Hyperactive second and Snatch third.   Oborns Nautical Supplies  Series Race 1  Nov 29 2020 A fleet of 7 boats lined up for the first race in the  Oborns Series on a sunny late spring day with moderate  southerly winds on course 8 which took them to the Kaik, Tikau Bay, the Paua Farm, Lushingtons, Green point and then home. On the   first  beat  to   windward Astruso took the lead with Snatch, Meltdown and Transition all very close together a little further back. Unfortunately a collision between Snatch and Transition forced both boats to withdraw from the race.  The remaining 5  boats enjoyed some excellent sailing conditions with Armalite in particular enjoying the combination of a full crew and a good breeze. Astruso continued their winning ways this season taking out line honours. After a week on the slip Meltdown had a good day out and was over the line second   followed by Armalite. On handicap Meltdown were first, followed by Astruso with Armalite third.   Racing This Weekend Sunday December 6th  1400hrs: Oborns Nautical Series Race 2   Black Cat Cruises Series  Sunday November 22nd Please note that this is a revision of the newsletter sent on 24th November, which included incorrect final results for the Blackcat Series. Apologies for the confusion Strong Southerly  winds meant racing had to be cancelled this week. The final results in the Black Cat Series will be decided by the three races which were sailed. Overall Transition came through as a clear winner in the series overall with a 1st, a 2nd and a 3rd placing. Congratulations to all the sailors on Transition. One Way were second overall in the series and Astruso third.  Final results below. Racing This Weekend Saturday Nov 28th 1400hrs: Saunders Robinson Brown Law 2 Handed Series Race 1 Sunday Nov 29th  1400hrs: Oborns Nautical Series Race 1    Black Cat Cruises Series Race 4 Sunday November 15th After last week’s abandoned race (due to foul weather) a great fleet of 9 yachts turned up on a wonderful late spring day for the first long harbour race of the season. At the start there was a light breeze from the south which turned around to the north as the race proceeded. Astruso and Snatch led the fleet upwind to the Kaik and then downwind to Mark 3 (Lushingtons) with Transition and Meltdown close behind. At this stage the weather gods intervened! A light Nor-easterly breeze slowly made its way down the harbour leaving  Meltdown, Lightly Oiled, One Way , Penzance , Armalite and Afterglow struggling in the doldrums between the two winds. One Way and Lightly Oiled made good decisions and jumped some places in this section of the race. Lightly Oiled made their first appearance for the season- Library photo At the front of the fleet Astruso , Snatch and Transition all managed to stay in the Southerly long enough to establish a big lead. Astruso and Snatch enjoyed a close battle for line honours with Astruso emerging the winner, followed by Snatch and Transition.  On handicap Astruso took out a well deserved double , with Transition second and Snatch third.  This was a long race and required patience from all of us, especially our starters. Thank you. Racing Sunday November 22nd    – Black Cat Cruises Series Races 5, 6, & 7 Sunday November 22nd  will be the final day for the Black Cat Cruises Series with three sprint races and the first race scheduled for a 1300hrs start. The finishing positions in the series will be determined by these races, especially with a discard of the worst result once boats have sailed 6 or more races Racing Photos We have had some great photos of the previous weeks this season which add interest to the newsletters, but missed out this week. So if anyone has any shots relevant to the racing please email to gilr_smith@hotmail.com. These would be also eligible for the annual award of the Richard Memorial Trophy for the best yachting photo. AYC Annual Golf Day On Sat 14th Nov the annual AYC Golf Tournament playing for the Leda Trophy was held in brilliant conditions at the Akaroa Golf Course. A field of seven teams with 4 members in each team played an Ambrose tournament,a game that encourages players that do not play a lot of golf to participate. It was great to see our commodore out there playing her 1st round of 18 holes,well done Patsy. The Leda Trophy was won by the Dunvegan team,only just pipping Dream Catcher for handicap honours. Results 1st Dunvegan                      56.125 2nd Dream Chaser             56.250 3rd Penzance                      57.125 4th Snatch                           58.125 5th One Way                       59.000 6th Leda                              60.500 7th Transition                      63.875 Closest to the pin no 13         Ben Hutchinson      Leda Closest to the pin no 17         Nigel Patten          One Way  Commodores prize  Best Dressed Team        Leda The Dunvegan team with the trophy Black Cat Cruises Series Race 3 Sunday November 8th  Last Sunday dawned with a strong, wet and cold southerly. As a result of the conditions there was insufficient entries for a race to proceed (a minimum of 3 is required), and the third race of the BlackCat Series was abandoned. Sailing Sunday 15th November  The 4th Race in the Black Cat Series is scheduled for this weekend, and at this stage the forecast is looking good for sailing. This is a Long Harbour, which will have the earlier start time of 1300hrs. We look forward to seeing a good fleet on the start-line.   Black Cat Cruises Series Race 2 Sunday November 1st   It was a near perfect day for yacht racing on the harbour this week with a steady 10-12 knot northerly wind and bright sunshine. Astruso, Snatch and Armalite all made their first appearance of the season in a fleet of seven boats. A brave port tack start had Snatch in the lead around the first mark followed  closely by Astruso. Snatch and Astruso leading from the start- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson These two boats then battled closely for the lead throughout the race  with Snatch finally taking line honours by  30  seconds. Further back in third Transition continued their good form and finished well ahead of the four remaining boats in the fleet.  Astruso well powered up as they sail to Green Point- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Meltdown and Afterglow in Childrens Bay -photo courtesy of Tim Richardson One Way and Armalite rounding Green Point mark- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Afterglow and One Way enjoyed their own fierce battle on the water with Afterglow getting out to an early lead before One Way finally over took at the end of the race to come across the line fourth. Meltdown, Armalite and One Way heading to the Kaik- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson The beautiful weather was complimented by close racing with the last 4 boats in the fleet all across the line within 60  seconds. On handicap Astruso were the winners followed by Snatch with Transition third.  Afterglow got their revenge over One Way by coming out ahead on handicap and taking fourth place. Race three in the Black Cat Series is at 1400hrs next Sunday (Nov 8th ). Can Transition keep up their early form?  Special mention should be made of Tim Richardson who shot the excellent photos in this newsletter using his drone, whilst also minding recently arrived George Richardson Club Night Friday November 6th 1800 – 2000 hrs: Our popular ‘First Friday of the Month’ club nights get under way again this week. A  great  chance to catch up with fellow club members and quite possibly the best place in the world right now for a Friday night drink and chat?   Akaroa Yacht Club Opening Weekend 2020-2021 Season The official opening function for the season was held in the clubrooms on Saturday 24 October with the Club Sailpast and opening race the following day. It  was great  to see a good turnout on Saturday  night.  Thank you to all the members and committee  members who lent a hand. AYC clubrooms decked out for opening day photo courtesy of Kev Kerr The Commodore ready to salute the fleet- photo courtesy of Kev Kerr Opening day marks the start of summer for most of us and this year the summer turned up in style with balmy warm conditions. Five boats lined up at the start in tricky winds which swung between North & Nor-west all afternoon. With less then 30 seconds to go the wind died leaving 4 boats stuck at the start while the other, One Way, who had adopted a different strategy had plenty of momentum and got off to a good early lead. Heading to Mark8 for the first time- photo courtesy of Hannah Anderson Variable winds made for tricky and at times frustrating sailing but Transition and One Way made the right decisions, and took out a good lead on the leg between Lushingtons and The Kaik. On the run into the finish Transition managed to stay in the breeze and get ahead of One Way to take out line honours. Further back Meltdown and Afterglow had their own close battle at the finish with Afterglow finishing third just ahead of Meltdown. Gabriella gets the prize for the most crew of the day with 11 on board and came over the line in fifth. Afterglow heading to Mark2- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Afterglow heading to Mark9 – photo courtesy of Hannah Anderson Transition chasing the fleet at this stage- photo courtesy of Kev Kerr Meltdown finishing- photo courtesy of Tim Richardson Gabriella fully loaded- photo courtesy of Timmy Richardson Handicap results came out exactly the same as results over the line with Transition taking out a well deserved double. Sailing Next Weekend  The second race in the Blackcat Series will be held next Sunday with a 2pm start. We look forward to a few more boarts joining the fleet. Also could we remind any boats that haven’t already done so to please renew their PHRF handicap.  Akaroa Yacht Club Opening Weekend Reminder After a year of huge disruption we would love to catch up with as many club members as possible over our opening weekend. This will be a great  chance to forget about elections, catch up on old friends and spend some time out on the beautiful Akaroa Harbour. Saturday October 24  6PM   Opening evening ceremony. Bar opens at 1800hrs Sunday October 25  1 PM    Club ‘Sail past’  with the Commodores Salute Sunday October 25 2PM     Race 1  Black Cat Cruises Series Snatch, club champion 2019-20. Who will it be in 2020-21? 2020-2021 Race Programme The following is the race programme in short format extracted from the AYC handbook Local Sailors in National Events Harry Thurston has been extending his excellent record at Nationals. Harry put together a Team to compete in the NZ Keelboat Championships sailed in Farr MRX yachts, and with Harry at the helm were second placed in the event. Harry has also competed as crew at several NZ Match racing events and the team has previously won three titles and this year was 3rd Action from 2020 Match Racing Nationals sailed in Elliott7’s Jonny Bell is also competing in the Young88 Nationals in Auckland  in his boat Undercover. Last year  Jonny was third placed and has assembled a strong team aiming to go two better this year (to be sailed on 21/22 November) Akaroa Yacht Club AGM and Prize-giving – 27th June Not much on the water activity to report on this week but there was plenty happening ashore. Saturday morning saw our AGM held at the  yacht club rooms. It was encouraging to see such a good attendance at the AGM and equally pleasing to see all committee and Flag Officer roles filled so willingly. The club is in excellent health. The AGM saw  the retirement of both Charl Chaney  as Commodore and Kit Grigg as Patron. Both Charl and Kit have done a fantastic job in their respective roles and were warmly thanked by all at the AGM. They are both  people who will  continue to contribute significantly to the club despite retiring from  their flag officer titles. Thank you very much Charl & Kit.     Kit Grigg enjoying retirement Patsy Little has been appointed as the new Club Commodore and has the honour of being the clubs first female Commodore. Paul De Latour has been appointed in the role of Patron. Both Paul and Patsy  have very long associations with the club and  we look forward to supporting them in their new roles. Annual Prizegiving Saturday  evening saw the annual prize giving. After the trials of COVID lockdown it was great to see the club rooms full, noisy and cheerful. A   busy bar, some excellent finger food & entertainment all added to a great evening.   Brian Little organiser of the prize giving The club is always very appreciative of the sponsorship we receive   for our racing series and it was great  to have three of our sponsors, Akaroa Dolphins, Gluyas Motor Group and Brownies Mattress Direct  present at the prize giving to award prizes.  Peter Gluyas representing Aramalite   Al Bradford (Penzance) the Coastal Series Winner with the  John MacCormack Trophy Charl presenting the ‘Round to it Trophy’ to the Ali Chaney Catering Team Harry Thurston Skipper of Snatch, winner of many trophies including the Club Championship   A  full list  of prize winners is  below. For those (few) of you who didn’t make it to the event the prizes are really very generous and plentiful. Thank you again to our sponsors. Prizegiving for the Covid curtailed 2019/20 Season Opening Day Race – Akaroa Village Trophy Abandoned Black Cat Cruises Series – Lushington Plate 1             Snatch                 6 points                                H Thurston 2             Meltdown           18 points                               G Smith 3             Gabriella             21 points                              M Norris/P Guthrey Oborn’s Nautical Series – W J Burke Trophy 1             Snatch                 11 points           H Thurston 2             Meltdown           12.5 points         G Smith 3             Lightly Oiled       21 points            LO Syndicate Akaroa Dolphins Four Race Regatta – Mayor’s Cup 1             One Way             8 points               T Anderson 2             First Class            11.5 points         R Hallifax 3             Afterglow            12 points             J Gilllard Gluyas Motor Group Series – Madeira Hotel Trophy 1             Snatch                  6 points               H Thurston 2             Meltdown           9 points                  G Smith 3             One Way             21 points             T Anderson Bayleys Real Estate Series – Helps Brothers Trophy Not sailed due to Covid Brownies Mattress Direct Easter Four Race Regatta – Shibbeen Trophy Not sailed due to Covid Akaroa Butchery and Deli Winter Series – Checketts Ice Bucket 1             Meltdown           7 points               G Smith 2             Regardless          9 points              J Bell 3=           Transition            18 points             B&P Little 3=           Gabriella              18 points             M Norris/P Guthrey Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers Two Handed Series – Dave Norris Trophy (3 races sailed) 1             Snatch                  3 points               H Thurston & D Lamb 2             Hyperactive        10 points             B Bone & K Bone 3             One Way             11 points             T Anderson and T Richardson Peraki Race – Frank Baddeley Trophy 1             Hyperactive          B Bone 2             Penzance             A Bradford 3             Meltdown              G Smith Pompeys Pillar Race – Donaghy’s Trophy 1             Penzance            A Bradford 2             Meltdown           G Smith 3             Armalite              Armalite Syndicate Grand Hotel Coastal Series – John MacCormack Trophy 1             Penzance             3 points             A Bradford 2             Meltdown           5 points               G Smith 3             Hyperactive        8 points               B Bone Heads Race – Ron Guthrey Plate 1             First Class            R Hallifax 2             One Way             T Anderson          3             Hyperactive        B Bone Commodores Invitation Mark Foy Series 1             Penzance             1 points                 A Bradford 2             Lightly Oiled       2 points               L.O. Syndicate 3             Armalite               3 points               Arm Syndicate Five Miles Off Abandoned ca Bouge – Lady Skippers Race – Josephine deLatour Rosebowl Not sailed due to Covid Most Line Honours – The Bell’s Trophy 1             Snatch                  16          H Thurston 2             Regardless          4             J Bell 3=           Meltdown           2             G Smith 3=           OneWay              2             T Anderson “Round to it” Award Ali Chaney Catering Team Richard Macauley Memorial- Best Yachting Photo Paul Drake Club Trophy – Sprint Races – Olympic Cup 1             Snatch                  10 points             H Thurston 2             Meltdown           17.5 points         G Smith 3             Gabriella              23.5 points         M Norris/P Guthrey Club Trophy – Long Harbour Races – Club Trophy 1=           Meltdown           4 points               G Smith 1=           Snatch                  4 points               H Thurston 3=           Astruso                10 points             R Miller/B Cowan 3=           Gabriella              10 points             M Norris/P Guthrey 3=           One Way             10 points             T Anderson 3=           Transition            10 points             B & P Little Patrons Trophy for the Most Consistent Finisher (excluding the Club Champion) 1             Meltdown           25 starts              G Smith 2             Regardless          23 starts              J Bell 3             Gabriella              22 starts              M Norris/P Guthrey Akaroa Yacht Club Championship 2019/20 1             Snatch        37 points               H Thurston     George Brassell’s Dolphin Bell 2             Meltdown    44.5 points         G Smith     Kellas Pool Trophy 3             Gabriella     84.5 points         M Norris/P Guthrey   Peterson Jeweller’s Trophy The final award of the night is for the overall club champion boat for the 2019-20 season. This year this award went to Harry Thurston & Dean Lamb  sailing Snatch. Runner up this season was Gil Smith sailing Meltdown with Mike Norris and Peter Guthrey third sailing Gabriella. Well done to all the skippers and crews who  came away with prizes.  Dean Brownlie a very generous and ongoing sponsor of the AYC Jetty Repairs: Unfortunately plans to get this work done in March were interrupted by the COVID lockdown.  While a new date for the repairs has not yet been decided there will be a call for some assistance from club members to help  with this work once we know the dates. New Event: Opening Day 2020-21 Season Labour Weekend                      Put it in your diary Now. . Akaroa Yacht Club AGM  27 June at 11 am in the Wardroom.  Click below for formal notice of the meeting Akaroa Yacht Club Inc Akaroa Butchery & Deli Winter Series Race 5 Sunday June 14 dawned clear and VERY frosty for the last race of the season.  The race lived up to its winter title with very low temperatures.  Seven intrepid crews turned up all warmly dressed and braved the elements to be greeted by a nice nor-easterly which meant racing could start on time and away they went.  It was very pleasing to see Afterglow and Hyperactive turning out for their first appearances in this series. Regardless bravely elected a port tack start only to find Gabriella in their path. Gabriella took quick evasive action and Regardless a 720 degree penalty turn leaving them at the back of the fleet.  Regardless starting Penalty Turn Photo from Regardless chasing the fleet after penalty- courtesy of Paul Drake One Way hoisting spinnaker on way to Green Point- photo courtesy of Paul Drake Meanwhile Transition got on with the task of yacht racing & led the fleet round the first mark. A steady (but chilly) 10-14 knot breeze from the north meant the fleet could sail a full course between mark 3 & The Kaik. Regardless leading the fleet to the Kaik- photo courtesy Afterglow The three larger boats in the fleet stretched out a lead with Regardless managing to catch and pass both Transition and Gabriella. Photo from Regardless followed by Transition heading to the Kaik- photo courtesy Paul Drake The second half of the fleet saw close racing between the 4 Young 88’s, One Way, Meltdown, Afterglow and Hyperactive with One Way clearly in the lead. Afterglow’s afterguard Line honours was taken out by Regardless followed by Transition and then Gabriella. First on handicap was Transition followed by Regardless, One Way and then Gabriella.   Congratulations to the overall winners of the extended Akaroa Butchery & Deli winter series  Meltdown, with Regardless second and Transition and Gabriella equal third.  On a cool day the clubrooms were a welcome haven with warm heaters, hot soup (thanks to Ali Chaney) and conversation enjoyed by a good crowd of club members.  Glenys and Tim showing great pleasure in winning the Akaroa Butchery raffle- photo courtesy Paul Drake Sun dropping after the last race of the season- photo courtesy of Afterglow Lost and Found The following items have gone missing  so please check to see your sailing gear bags and boat lockers before putting away for the winter in case you have them: Starters Binoculars A pair of Pentax binoculars that  normally reside in the startbox have disappeared. These are essential for the Starters so if you find these please return. Sailing Overtrousers LOST; If anyone has found a pair of blue waterproof overtrousers in the clubrooms, please contact Peter Zwart 027367757 AGM and Prize-giving The AGM will be held at 11am on Saturday 27th June followed by the annual prize giving at 6pm. Please come along to the AGM to add your input to the Club’s future including election of officers for the coming year, and in the evening for the prize giving social event which will be catered with light refreshments. Akaroa Butchery and Deli Series 2020- Race4 The fourth race of the (extended) Akaroa Butchery Winter Series was sailed this week.  After a very frosty morning we had a beautiful winter’s day but again there was a lack of wind. Close encounter between Lightly Oiled and Gabriella- Photo Courtesy Paul Drake After an hour’s delay the race was started in light Northerly breezes and the fleet of 5 Yachts departed on a course up  to Childrens Bay, back to Green Point then Lushingtons Bay before a long run to the Kaik & home.  Something interesting up the mast on Transition- photo courtesy of Paul Drake Heading to Green Point- Photo Courtesy Paul Drake   Regardless leading away from Green Point- Photo Courtesy Paul Drake The fleet stayed closely bunched until the third mark (Lushingtons)  with Regardless holding a small lead over Meltdown, followed next by Lightly Oiled. As often happens in a light breeze things got interesting on the long run to the Kaik. Firstly, Regardless found breeze at the front  of the fleet and extended their lead. Lightly Oiled were the next to make a big move finding better breeze in the middle of the harbour and overtaking Meltdown. Further back Transition and Gabriella were having a lovely day out in the sunshine but struggling with a dying breeze. On the final beat home luck turned for the crew of Regardless. Their boat speed dropped and they had to watch as firstly Lightly Oiled and then Meltdown sailed straight past them. Weed round the rudder was to  blame but by the time they had this sorted Lightly Oiled has crossed the finish line to take a well-deserved line honours win followed by Meltdown and then Regardless.  Lightly Oiled continued good recent form- photo courtesy Paul Drake Transition and then Gabriella were the next over the line just as both the sun & the temperature dropped. It was a simple day for our hardworking starter/handicapper Kevin this week. Handicap placings were exactly the same as placings over the line so well done to Lightly Oiled for their double win.  A special shoutout this week to Jonny Bell who takes on the thankless task of Race Officer. Winter racing can be especially problematic with fickle winds. Today he once again got the start time and race selection spot on. Jonny modelling his new sailing boots- photo courtesy Paul Drake After the race the sailors warmed up with sausages from our sponsor, Akaroa Butchery and Deli.  The last race of the Akaroa Butchery and Deli Series and the season will be next Sunday, again with a 1pm start.    Akaroa Butchery and Deli Series 2020- Race3  Seven boats came to the start for the third race in the Akaroa Butchery and Deli Winter Series on a lovely day for sailing.   For the first time in the series the race started on time in 10 – 14 knots of breeze from the north. Regardless made the best of a tricky start which required a port tack approach to a heavily favoured pin end. A bit of shouting and a few close encounters saw Transition, Meltdown & Penzance next over the start line. Regardless stayed in the lead round the first mark before a downwind leg which turned out to be more of a tight reach. Those boats who tried to launch spinnakers struggled and on Meltdown we managed a few impressive broaches to entertain all the long weekend visitors to Akaroa.  File Photo The fleet then sailed a course up to Lushingtons, down to Wainui and back to Lushingtons before returning home. Regardless had a good day and stretched their lead on the fleet at every mark to finish first over the line.   File Photo Transition also sailed well to be second over the line. Meltdown & Lightly Oiled had a good tussle with Meltdown a little quicker up wind but Lightly Oiled catching up quickly on each run. File Photo The noisiest boat of the day award goes to Armalite who were delighted to sneak ahead of Gabriella by 7 seconds to   come over the line fifth.  File Photo On handicap time Regardless were clear winners with Transition just ahead of Meltdown in second place. The best part of the days racing followed with sailors and supporters finally after 2 months of COVID restrictions able to retire to the clubrooms for a drink, a chat and some of the sponsors saveloys. Coming Events Given the number of racedays lost during the lockdown the Committee has decided add 2 additional races to this series on the next two Sundays (June 7 and 14) starting at 1300 each day.  The AGM and Prizegiving will be rescheduled later in the month.

Akaroa Butchery and Deli Series 2020- Race2  A good fleet of 7 boats turned out for the second race in the series. Unfortunately the weather didn’t cooperate with fickle light winds on a cool day. After 45 minutes of waiting a light westerly of about 5knots starting blowing which was just sufficient to allow a start. The fleet headed off on Course 39 which is from the start to Green Point and then several laps between Lushingtons and Green Point. Regardless lead from the start with the remainder of the fleet close behind. The start from Regardless- photo courtesy of Paul Drake By Green Point mark Gabriella had crept in front with Regardless,Lightly Oiled, and Transition following. However, Regardless contacted Mark9 at the rounding and lost some ground whilst undertaking  a penalty turn. Leaving Mark9 to Lushingtons- photo courtesy Paul Drake The majority of the fleet sailed to Lushingtons under spinnaker except for the last few boats which were caught in a wind change to the north. Lightly Oiled, Gabriella, and Regardless lead around Lushingtons.  Lightly Oiled rounding Lushingtons- Photo courtesy Paul Drake Regardless was sailing well in light conditions that are not its strong suit, and was leading the fleet approaching Childrens Bay. However,the wind was now dropping under  5 knots and changeable in direction and the Race Officer announced a shortened the course at Mark9. After half an hour or so of drifting, boats progressively retired until only Meltdown and Armalite were left. Both boats finished about an hour later virtually in the dark-results below. Health and Safety Message Just a reminder with the shortened daylight hours that boats should display navigational lights after sunset when not moored Startbox Binoculars The Pentax binoculars have disappeared from the startbox! These are especially needed by the Starters to pick out boats in decreased light levels. If you have borrowed these can you please return Upcoming Sailing Programme Changes Queens Birthday Weekend The 3rd Race of the Akaroa Butchery and Deli Series will be held on Sunday 31 May (NB this differs from the Programme date) Extended Akaroa Butchery and Deli Winter Series In view of the races that have been missed due to Covid two additional weekends will be sailed with races starting at 1pm on 7th June and 14th June. If all races are sailed (total of 5)  a discard will apply Akaroa Butchery and Deli Series 2020- Race1        After a long break we were all delighted that Level 2 meant a start to racing again.  Five yachts entered and the first business of the day was cleaning down the yachts as the seagulls had made the most of the lockdown.  That completed the fleet headed out on a fantastic Autumn day which only lacked one thing – wind!   After an hour or so  of waiting a light northerly of about 5-7knots starting blowing and the fleet headed off on Course 20 which basically meant to Robinsons Bay and back again. Regardless just after the start- Harry Thurston at the helm Jonny Bell on the foredeck! The delayed race start  caught some of the fleet by surprise but Gabriella and Regardless did well to  be in the lead round the first  mark with Meltdown , Armalite and Penzance following on behind.  Meltdown heading to Robinsons Aramalite on their way to Robinsons Bay Gabriella then continued to lead the fleet all the way  to the finish with Regardless and Meltdown enjoying a good tussle until  Regardless managed to get  ahead in the final stages of the race. Gabriella leaving Mark4  On handicap  results it was Meltdown who came in first by 2 seconds ahead of Gabriella and then Regardless.         The current restrictions meant we could not socialize in the clubrooms  after the race but crews were able to  enjoy a few refreshments on board. Hopefully in the near future we will be able to celebrate together (probably with a sausage or two from our fantastic sponsor – Akaroa Butchery & Deli). It  was a fantastic to get back on the water again in beautiful Akaroa autumn weather and it  would be great  to see a few more boats join us for race 2 in the series next weekend (1300 scheduled start). FInally many thanks to Kevin McSweeney for running the start box and taking on additional duties involved in Covid rules and even contributing much of this newsletter

Cancellation AYC Racing 21st and 22nd March 2020 Dear Members Sadly this weekends sailing at AYC has been cancelled due to Covid-19 concerns. We have considered various options including holding sailing without opening the Wardroom afterwards. However, we received medical advice that recommended a safety first approach is adopted including cancellation of sailing. In the meantime the Club locker-room and toilets and showers can continue to be used by members but the tea-making facility in the Stevens room will no longer be available. The Wardroom will be locked and closed until further notice AYC will continue to provide updates on the possibility of future sailing this season, in the hope that it can recommence once more is known about the extent of the virus spread. In the meantime I wish you all the best during these trying times, and hopefully we have some better news soon Charl Chaney AYC Commodore

Grand Hotel Coastal Series- Pompeys Pillar Race- March 15th   2020 This was the final race in the 2-races Coastal Series. A minimum fleet of  3-boats (Armalite, Meltdown and Penzance) started in a building north East breeze. It was a quick run to the heads with all three boats having spinnaker issues but still making good time. Once at the heads the wind became fickle in the zone where the harbour and coastal winds meet.  Penzance and Armalite managed to get into the coastal NE first with Meltdown following. After a long bumpy beat along the coast the order rounding the virtual mark at Pompeys Pillar was Penzance, Meltdown and Armalite. The breeze had now increased to 20kts which made for a quick downwind back with Penzance being the only boat to try a spinnaker with mixed results. Once again there was fickle wind at the Akaroa Heads but once through this the northerly wind was gusting to 30kts providing a challenging slog to the finish. Penzance excelled in the boisterous conditions and took out the line and handicap double by a considerable margin with Meltdown and Armalite following. Penzance also took out the overall Coastal Series from Meltdown and Hyperactive. Thanks are due to the Grand Hotel for their sponsorship of this series Sailing Next Weekend  Saturday 21st March- Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers 2-Handed series Race4  The start-time for this race is 1400. (Note that Le Race is being held on Saturday morning which may increase travel time to Akaroa) Sunday 22nd March- CA Bouge Ladies Skippers Race One off race starting at 1400 Covid-19 Notice At this stage we are planning to proceed with this weekends sailing. However, Covid-19 measures are continuingly changing, and we will  adhere to the latest guidelines. In the meantime each boat should ensure that any crew who are feeling unwell, or have recently returned by overseas and are therefore subject to self-isolation rules, do not sail. For information the following is a letter from New Zealand Yachting detailing their current approach to sailing events. March 16, 2020 You will all be aware the Covid-19 outbreak is a rapidly-evolving situation and we are getting updates constantly from the Ministry of Health and medical teams at High Performance Sport New Zealand and Sport New Zealand. You will also have noticed many events and gatherings are being cancelled or postponed and many of you will be making decisions about your own events and activities coming up. As of today, the Oceanbridge NZL Sailing Regatta is still going ahead at the Royal Akarana Yacht Club on March 28-29. This decision is based on the Ministry of Health’s current advice for public events and mass gatherings. Our event has a relatively low risk and sailors and supporters who have travelled overseas and not quarantined within 14 days of the event will not be able to enter. We can reduce the risk further by removing all large social gatherings. That means: An online briefing will be posted on the Yachting New Zealand Facebook page on the Friday night before the event. There will no BBQ for volunteers at the conclusion of racing each day. There will be no prizegiving on the final day of racing. Instead, awards will be sent out in the week following the event and the winners will be acknowledged on Yachting New Zealand’s channels. If the event is cancelled due to changing circumstances, full refunds will be issued to all entrants.  Please enter the event sooner rather than later. Please email Sam@yachtingnz.org.nz if you can also help out on the water. We are taking anything related to Covid-19 seriously and want everyone to remain safe and well and to feel supported. The office at Yachting New Zealand remains open for business but, if you feel unwell or have flu-like symptoms, please don’t come in to see us and contact the Ministry of Health’s healthline or your health professional. You will have seen the various guidelines for trying to keep safe and well. The best defence is to practice good hygiene, particularly washing hands thoroughly with soap and water. Other measures are: covering coughs and sneezes with disposable tissues or coughing/sneezing into your elbow disposing of used tissues appropriately in a bin washing hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water and drying them thoroughly, or using hand sanitiser: before eating or handling food after using the toilet after coughing, sneezing, blowing your nose or wiping children’s noses after touching public surfaces practice social distancing, which means trying to keep 1m away when meeting with others. limiting alcohol, as this may affect your ability to adequately follow the advice above. The measures above are especially important for people who have pre-existing health conditions, such as those with diabetes, renal failure, pre-existing cardio-respiratory conditions or who are immunocompromised. There is some really useful information on the Ministry of Health website about self-isolation, symptoms, travel and what we can all do to better protect ourselves and those around us. At this stage, we encourage yacht clubs to consider the advice available and make decisions on whether they remain open and host events based on what is best for their club. I firmly believe one of the best things we can do is to remain active, exercise and sleep well so we improve our chances of remaining fit and healthy. Things are, though, changing quickly and we will be reassessing the situation on a regular basis and will update you as we know more. We are taking this seriously, are following government health guidelines and won’t be taking any unnecessary risks. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Kind regards David Abercrombie  Commodores Invitation Series Race2  March 8th   2020 This was the final race in this 2-races series and there was little, if any wind, at the scheduled start time of 2pm. However, a light southerly breeze gradually developed and the Mark Foy staggered start commenced at 2:40pm. Armalite and Penzance were off first followed by Lightly Oiled and Meltdown 2 minutes later and Transition after another 2-minutes. A short course was set having regard for the light breeze and delayed start which went across the harbour to Wainui and back to the start, then to Green Point and back to finish. Penzance sailed a consistent race to take first place, with Lightly Oiled, and Armalite third. Lightly Oiled were first overall in the series Special thanks to Commodore, Charl Chaney who sponsored this series Sailing Next Weekend- 15th March- Grand Hotel Coastal Series  This Sunday is a resail of the Pompeys Pillar Race which was postponed earlier in the season. The starttime is 1200, and entrants are required to enter at the startbox with full crew names and a declaration for compliance with Safety Cat4. A further email will be sent later in the week with sailing instructions and a safety checklist  Commodores Invitation Series Race2  March 8th   2020 This week is the second of a two race Invitation Series sponsored by the Commodore. Once again a Mark Foy start is proposed with start times as listed below. The weather forecast is for great sailing conditions in mild temperatures so hopefully we have a good turnout. Mark Foy starting times as follows:. Boat Name Number tcf Starting time   Afterglow 6688 0.719 1400   One Way 88 0.721 1400   Hyperactive 5881 0.722 1401   Penzance 5161 0.723 1401   Armalite 4911 0.725 1401   Lightly Oiled 5924 0.735 1403   Meltdown 5886 0.737 1403   Transition 5323 0.75 1405   Gabriella 6391 0.754 1406   Regardless 4166 0.778 1410   Astruso 8740 0.8 1413   Snatch 66 0.811 1415             The normal 5 minute warning sequence will apply before the first starting time at 1400, and the Starter will provide a 30second warning  over the VHF for all subsequent Starts as described in Section 11.2 of the Sailing Instructions  Gluyas Motor Group Series Race 4,5 & 6 Feb 23   2020 This week was the final  day  of racing for the Gluyas Motor Group series and the fleet of six boats was treated to delightful sailing conditions with bright sunshine and a southerly of 5-12 knots. The format of 3 sprint races to   complete as series has been a popular one with multiple starts and the opportunity for some very close racing adding to the fun of the day. Race one on the day took the fleet upwind to mark 9 , then down under spinnaker to Lushingtons Bay, back to mark 9 &  home. A   good start by Snatch saw them lead the fleet round the course with Meltdown second over the line followed by Transition. On handicap it was Snatch, followed by Meltdown and then One Way. Race two was a true sprint between Mark 9 (Green Point)   & the Childrens  Bay  mark with the leading boat home in only 19 minutes. The start was closely contested and for once Snatch  had some work to do to  stay  ahead of Meltdown &  Gabriella in close pursuit. Over the line it was Snatch followed by Meltdown and then Gabriella but on handicap Meltdown had done enough to take the win followed by Snatch with One Way third. Going into the final race of the day & the series Snatch held a good lead overall but Meltdown were close enough to take out the series if they could manage a win and Snatch finish 3rd or lower. True to their form all season though Snatch stayed calm and managed both line honours and a handicap  win  in the final race. Over the line Gabriella was second & Regardless third. One handicap it was One Way who were second behind Snatch, followed by Meltdown. Full results are listed below with a well-deserved win in the series overall to Snatch with Meltdown second &  One Way third.     Sailing Next Weekend The first race in a 2-race series will be held on 1 March 2020, followed by the second race on 8th March. Each of these races will be Mark Foy Starts with provisional starting times as follows:. Boat Name Number tcf Starting time   Afterglow 6688 0.719 1400   One Way 88 0.721 1400   Hyperactive 5881 0.722 1401   Penzance 5161 0.723 1401   Armalite 4911 0.725 1401   Lightly Oiled 5924 0.735 1403   Meltdown 5886 0.737 1403   Transition 5323 0.75 1405   Gabriella 6391 0.754 1406   Regardless 4166 0.778 1410   Astruso 8740 0.8 1413   Snatch 66 0.811 1415             The normal 5 minute warning sequence will apply before the first starting time at 1400, and the Starter will provide a 30second warning  over the VHF for all subsequent Starts as described in Section 11.2 of the Sailing Instructions Our Commodore Charl Chaney has kindly donated prizes for this 2-Race series which will now be known as the Commodore’s Invitation Series Canterbury Keelboat Championships A final reminder that the Canterbury Keelboat Championship Regatta is being held at Naval Point over 7th and 8th March 2020. In addition to the Presidents Cup Trophy for the keelboat champion, the Bully Hayes Trophy will be awarded to the best performed Akaroa boat on general handicap. Marina Berths can be booked by contacting Matt at info@teanamarina.co.nz Gluyas Motor Group Series Race 3 Feb 16th 2020   The forecast was for strong Nor-Easterly winds with an average speed of 20plus knots and gusts over 30 knots . The reality was 12-15 knots with an occasional increase to around 20knots, which when combined with warm temperatures, made for great sailing conditions.   A small fleet of 6 boats started the first leg to Childrens Bay followed by a spinnaker run to Mark9. Snatch made a great start and continued their domination leading around every mark. The order of the remaining boats at the first mark was Astruso, Regardless, One Way and Meltdown. Regardless heading away from the Kaik- Photo by Paul Drake The course was then a beat to Lushingtons followed by a kite run to the Kaik, a beat to Mark9, back to the Kaik and then Childrens Bay, Mark9, Childrens Bay and finish. The order of the first 4 boats stayed the same until the finish, although Astruso and Regardless lost significant time due to unfavourable wind shifts in Childrens Bay, which reflected in the Handicap placings.   Snatch on the way to the Kaik- photo by Paul Drake At the tail end of the fleet Meltdown managed to pass One Way on the final leg from the Kaik when its spinnaker escaped from the cabin and became a drogue for a few minutes. On handicap it was another impressive double to Snatch with One Way second, and Meltdown third. One Way giving the spinnaker a good drying post race -photo by Jim Palmer The final day of this series is next Sunday and will determine the overall standings with three sprint races programmed and a discard if all races are completed. The Shout Out this week goes to John Macdonald who normally sails on Armalite but was free this week to man the BBQ. Sailing Next Weekend Sunday 16th February Gluyas Motor Group Races 4, 5 and 6 starting at 1300 Cruising Event Cruising Vice Commodore Dave Maloney advises that the French Farm Club is arranging an overnight cruise to Peraki  on the 22nd February. (weather permitting). Further details can be obtained from Dave at darvomaloney@gmail.com Canterbury Keelboat Championships A reminder that the Canterbury Keelboat Championship Regatta is being held at Naval Point over 7th and 8th March 2020. In addition to the Presidents Cup Trophy for the keelboat champion, the Bully Hayes Trophy will be awarded to the best performed Akaroa boat on general handicap. Marina Berths can be booked by contacting Matt at info@teanamarina.co.nz   Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers Two Handed Series Race 3 February  8th It was cold, wet and windy for race 3 of the two handed series this week so well done to the hardy (foolhardy?)  six crews who turned up to race. The breeze swung between the South and the South West with gusts over 25 knots at times. Snatch maintained their good form of recent and after a good start pulled away  to lead the fleet. After a short beat to mark 9 the crews struggled to get  spinnakers up in the fresh breeze on a down wind leg to Lushingtons. Hyperactive were the smart sailors here and left their spinnaker for later while enjoying the spectacle of other boats struggling for control. A long beat back to Wainui was complicated by a large cruise boat in the middle of the course and the fleet split either side of this obstacle. Down wind again and even race leaders Snatch were seen to dramatically broach under spinnaker. Astruso kept Snatch honest and took over the lead for a while only to lose it again struggling to round the bottom mark. First over the line on the day  was Snatch,  followed by Astruso. Meltdown, Hyperactive and Regardless fought a close battle for third until the final beat to the finish line where Meltdown managed to pull ahead. Snatch also came out first on handicap, followed by Hyperactive with Astruso third. After the race the skippers retired to the warmth of the bar for a drink while their respective crews collapsed on the floor with exhaustion and slept! Gluyas Motor Group Series Race two Feb 9th  2020 It  was a busy  day on the water  for skippers &   crews this week. The   wind for the start of the race was fresh  from  the south, 20+ knots and plenty  of  wind shifts to keep us guessing. A brave port tack  start strategy from Snatch saw them leading at the top mark with Meltdown & Regardless next  round.   A  broad reach for the fleet of seven  boats down to Lushingtons in 25+ knots   followed. Small spinnakers, lots of shouting and a few trial & error attempts seemed to be the order of the day. The course then took the boats up to Wainui, back to Lushingtons and finished with shorter legs between mark 9 , Childrens Bay and the finish. The breeze was dropping throughout the race and crews were kept busy  with sail  changes. Snatch made the most of their lead & took out line honours  finishing before the wind dropped too much. Further back Regardless managed to pass Meltdown to be second over the line and Lightly Oiled made a strong run to come in 4th after Meltdown.   Gabriella deserves special mention for their impressive attempt to launch a spinnaker on the upwind beat to Mark 9. Unfortunately their finish position would suggest the new strategy was a failure! On handicap it was another impressive double to Snatch with Meltdown second and Lightly Oiled third. I Sailing Next Weekend Sunday 9th February Gluyas Motor Group Race3 starting at 1400 Race Photos Since no photos of this weeks racing were available , which is understandable given being short handed and in breezy conditions, some archived photos have been included above. Just a reminder that any photos of the racing can be forwarded to gilr_smith@hotmail.com for inclusion in the newsletters. Cruising Event Cruising Vice Commodore Dave Maloney advises that the French Farm Club is arranging an overnight cruise to Peraki  on the 23rd February. (weather permitting). Further details can be obtained from Dave at darvomaloney@gmail.com Message From Secretary Sailing Programme and membership cards There are still a number of envelopes containing programme and membership card sitting at the Clubrooms waiting for collection.  If you do not have yours please check the box when you are next at the Club. Gluyas Motor Group Series Race One Feb 2nd  2020 It was a warm and windy day  on the harbour this week for our race fleet of seven boats. The forecast was for Nor-west  winds  but the race got under way in a steady breeze from  the south –west. The course took the fleet between Tikao Bay &  the Kaik and maintaining their good form it was Snatch  who jumped to an early lead. Gabriella crossing Regardless on the beat to Tikao – photos courtesy of Paul Drake Wind change was the order of the day and firstly it changed to a Northerly, then a Nor-wester and finally wind from the South of about 20knots.  Regardless passing the cruise ship which was parked in the middle of the course It was great to see Astruso back in the race fleet this week and they kept Snatch honest at the front of the fleet before finally overtaking them as the stronger southerly blew in. Further back it was Meltdown who led the chasing bunch until firstly Regardless and then Gabriella overtook in the freshening breeze.   From the Kaik to Tikao The final spinnaker run from the Kaik back to the club rooms saw Snatch fly past Astruso to take out line honours, with Regardless coming home third just ahead of Gabriella, Meltdown & Transition. On handicap it was a close result with Meltdown first followed by Astruso and then Snatch. PHRF handicaps have been adjusted again recently and it was great to see the first 5   boats all within 2 ½ minutes on corrected time. Special thanks this week to Gluyas Motor Group who are new sponsors of this series and who also provide valuable crew to Armalite. Sailing Next Weekend Saturday 8th February Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers Two handed Series Race3 starting at 1400 Sunday 9th February Gluyas Motor Group Race2 starting at 1400 Message From Secretary Club Night A reminder it is Club night this Friday  7 February 2020 6.00 – 8.00pm Sailing Programme and membership cards There are still a number of envelopes containing programme and membership card sitting at the Clubrooms waiting for collection.  If you do not have yours please check the box when you are next at the Club.

Oborns Nautical Supplies  Series Race 5,6 & 7 January 26  2020

It was another glorious day out on the water this week for the 10 club boats who turned up  for the final three races to decide the overall winner  of the Oborns Nautical Supplies series. The forecast of very light winds was wrong and we were treated to 10 -15 knots of warm breeze from the south thanks to the Akaroa harbour draught.

Special thanks this week to Stephen Cook (who also provided the mark laying boat), and Ross Miller who set up a specific course for the 3 sprint races of the day by laying ‘Mark 10’  upwind of the Green Point reef and giving the boats a very  competitive   series of races..

 Stephen and Ross in the mark boat- all photos courtesy Paul Drake

Sprint races lead to  close starts and a bit of shouting between boats. Penzance attempted the ‘bumper boat’ start in race one leading to a penalty turn soon after!  Once underway in race one a familiar pattern started to emerge with Snatch  showing the way and being unchallenged to  take out line honours. Further back Gabriella , Meltdown, Regardless , Lightly Oiled and Transition all stayed in close contact as the boats sailed two upwind  &  two  downwind legs to the finish.

Frank Dickson helming Regardless into the Glen

Second over the line in race one was Regardless followed by Gabriella. On handicap Snatch took the double with Meltdown second and Lightly Oiled third. Of note Gabriella and Transition had exactly the same time on handicap to take out 5^th  equal place.

Race two  again saw Snatch out to a good lead which they held for another line honours win with Gabriella second & Meltdown third over the line.  On handicap another double for Snatch followed by Meltdown and then Gabriella.

 Regardless Foredeck in action

Race three was pretty much a repeat  of race two with another close start followed by  Snatch once again leading the fleet round the course. Second on line honours this race was Gabriella and third Meltdown. On  handicap  it was three out of three for Snatch with Gabriella ad Meltdown tied for second equal.

 Regardless and Gabriella heading to the finish
On a beautiful  evening we had a great turnout at the club rooms following the races where there was agreement that  this was a great  day out on the water. The format of three short sprint races gave us close and exciting racing and some tense moments as boats crossed tacks and round marks in close proximity.

Overall in the Oborns Nautical series Snatch  came out the winners , edging out Meltdown who were a close second with Lightly Oiled third. Full  results below. Special  thanks to  our sponsors for the series, Oborns Nautical Supplies.
Many people contributed to the success of this series but our starters Kevin & Peter deserve extra recognition. They managed three close starts, three finishes and then the collation of the results from seven races all within an hour of the last boat finishing. Well done Kevin & Peter.

  

Sailing Next Weekend Gluyas Motor Group Series Race1
Ths first race in this series is scheduled to start at 2pm on Sunday 2 February.   

 

Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers Two Handed Series Race 2 January 18

The weather for race two of the two handed series this week was in a word, stunning!
Sunshine, warm temperatures and a steady wind from the North – east which built over the race from 10 – 15+ knots, were all a welcome sight for the seven boats competing.

Snatch showed the rest of the fleet the way after making a good start and then led the fleet over a course which sailed up & down the harbour between the Lushingtons and Wainui marks.  Astruso and One Way were next  to the top mark but both boats lost time to the perennial challenge of two handed races – sail changes and sails in the water.

About to Start- photo courtesy of Justine Gillard

By  the time the fleet rounded the bottom mark for the last time Snatch were out to a commanding lead with Meltdown well clear in second place.  Further back Astruso and Hyperactive battled neck & neck with Astruso just edging ahead to finish third over the line. Regardless were the hard luck story of the day. After a powerful upwind leg they moved into second place before spinnaker troubles on the last drop of the day. When a big boat loses a big spinnaker in the water with only 2 crew on board …..it can be tricky to recover!

On handicap Snatch took out a well-deserved double with Meltdown second and Hyperactive third. Special thanks also to the skipper & crew of Afterglow who came in fifth on handicap. It is great when the sponsors of a race can also get out & compete with us. Sounds like spinnaker pole problems robbed them of an even better finish in the race.

Oborns Nautical Series Race 4 January 19th

When a light northerly breeze from the head of the harbour meets a southerly harbour draft coming in from the heads it will be a tricky day for yacht racing. That proved to be very much the case with our racing this week.

Ten  boats turned up at the start for a coarse which took the fleet on a course between Lushingtons, the  Kaik , Green Point, the Kaik &  home. Snatch celebrated their recently repaired mast by jumping into the lead &  staying there.

Rounding Mark2- Photo courtesy of Paul Drake

Coming out of start- photo courtesy of Charl Chaney

Further back the fleet was split with some boats staying close to Red Point and doing much better than those on the Tikao side of the harbour. But as so often happens the weather had more in store for us. On the spinnaker run down to the Kaik boats one by one entered the doldrums between the northerly and southerly winds and came to a halt. On Meltdown we had to watch with dismay as Transition & Lightly Oiled sailed right over top of us from a long way back.

At the front of the fleet Snatch and Astruso managed to stay in enough breeze to take out the first two places on line honours. Lightly Oiled were third over the line with Meltdown fourth.
Further back in the fleet the frustrations continued with the wind swinging several times between the north & the south.  It was a day for patient skippers & crews. 

Regardless in the Prestart

The other lesson of the day for Gabriella and Armalite was that boats with dirty bottoms sail particularly slowly on days of light variable winds. Time for some hull cleaning maybe?

On handicap Lightly Oiled made up enough ground on the boats ahead to take out first place with Meltdown second and Snatch third. Full results below and the final day of racing to decide the series next Sunday.

 Sailing 26th January
This Sunday is the final day of the Oborns Nautical Supplies Series. Three sprint races are scheduled, with a discard if 2 or more races are sailed. The first race will start at 1300. 

Cruising Event
The French Farm Yacht Club is proposing an overnight cruise to Flea Bay this weekend. The intention is to sail there on Saturday 25th January and return on Sunday 26th January  subject to  weather.
Please contact Dave Maloney at darvomaloney@gmail.com to express interest

Young88 South Island Champs and Canterbury Keelboat Champs
These regattas will be held at the Naval Point Yacht Club on the weekends of 29February and 1 March (Y88 SI Champs)  and 7-8 March (KB Champs)
The notice of race for each event is available on the NPCL website.
Berths in the inner harbour Te Ana Marina can be arranged by contacting: Matt Blythe Marina Manager, Te Ana 021 1957246 E: mattblythe@lpc.co.nz
These events are held at the AYC every second year and a reasonable number of boats normally come around from Lyttleton. It would be great if the AYC fleet could similarly support the event when it is held in Lyttleton

 

Oborns Nautical Series Race 4 January 19th

When a light northerly breeze from the head of the harbour meets a southerly harbour draft coming in from the heads it will be a tricky day for yacht racing. That proved to be very much the case with our racing this week.

Ten boats turned up at the start for a coarse which took the fleet on a course between Lushingtons, the Kaik , Green Point, the Kaik & home. Snatch celebrated their recently repaired mast by jumping into the lead & staying there.

Rounding Mark2- Photo courtesy of Paul Drake

Coming out of start- photo courtesy of Charl Chaney

Further back the fleet was split with some boats staying close to Red Point and doing much better than those on the Tikao side of the harbour. But as so often happens the weather had more in store for us. On the spinnaker run down to the Kaik boats one by one entered the doldrums between the northerly and southerly winds and came to a halt. On Meltdown we had to watch with dismay as Transition & Lightly Oiled sailed right over top of us from a long way back.

At the front of the fleet Snatch and Astruso managed to stay in enough breeze to take out the first two places on line honours. Lightly Oiled were third over the line with Meltdown fourth.
Further back in the fleet the frustrations continued with the wind swinging several times between the north & the south. It was a day for patient skippers & crews.

Regardless in the Prestart

The other lesson of the day for Gabriella and Armalite was that boats with dirty bottoms sail particularly slowly on days of light variable winds. Time for some hull cleaning maybe?

On handicap Lightly Oiled made up enough ground on the boats ahead to take out first place with Meltdown second and Snatch third. Full results below and the final day of racing to decide the series next Sunday.

Sailing 26th January
This Sunday is the final day of the Oborns Nautical Supplies Series. Three sprint races are scheduled, with a discard if 2 or more races are sailed. The first race will start at 1300.

Cruising Event
The French Farm Yacht Club is proposing an overnight cruise to Flea Bay this weekend. The intention is to sail there on Saturday 25th January and return on Sunday 26th January subject to weather.
Please contact Dave Maloney at darvomaloney@gmail.com to express interest

Young88 South Island Champs and Canterbury Keelboat Champs
These regattas will be held at the Naval Point Yacht Club on the weekends of 29February and 1 March (Y88 SI Champs) and 7-8 March (KB Champs)
The notice of race for each event is available on the NPCL website.
Berths in the inner harbour Te Ana Marina can be arranged by contacting: Matt Blythe Marina Manager, Te Ana 021 1957246 E: mattblythe@lpc.co.nz
These events are held at the AYC every second year and a reasonable number of boats normally come around from Lyttleton. It would be great if the AYC fleet could similarly support the event when it is held in Lyttleton

 

Pompey Race 12th January 2020

Unfortunately this race was not held due to lack of entrants. 

The ‘course to be set on the day’ Coastal Race on the 15th March 2020 will now be used for a rerun of the Pompey Race.

Sailing Next Weekend

Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers 2 Handed Series Race2 – Saturday 18th January 2020

The scheduled start is at 1400. A reminder that this series will have a discard this season

Osborn Nautical Supplies Series Race4- Sunday 19th 2020

This is a long harbour race with a scheduled start at 1300.

VHF Course

The Club is looking at running a VHF Radio Course.  The tutor will be Peter Marshall from Coastguard Boating Education and all those who attend and pass will receive a Maritime VHF Radio Operator Certificate.

Course date:  Saturday 15 February 2020

Start time:     10.00am

Venue: Akaroa Yacht Club

Cost:            $120 per person

If you are interested in attending the course please contact

Glenys – secretary@akaroayachtclub.com no later than 20 January 2020.

 

APOLOGIES – UNABLE TO LOAD PHOTOS AT THIS TIME..

AKAROA YACHT CLUB NEWSLETTER

Akaroa Dolphins New Year Regatta

Nothing resonates more in sailing than the word ‘Regatta’. It conjures up scenes of billowing sails, flags, bunting, cocktails and a party. Well, that is pretty much what happened over the past weekend at AYC, and we have to thank our sponsors – Akaroa Dolphins – for their support over the years for this regatta. A truly great time was had by all. It’s true we were down a few boats this year, as some boats were not able to participate, but what we did have was a full on Young 88 regatta with two wild cards in the form of Transition and Gabriella thrown in for good fun. 

 

Continuing with our summer of upset weather, sadly connected to the enormous bush fires in Australia, we had a strong southerly on Saturday to stir the fleet up. While the Y88s geared up with full mains and #2’s, Transition and Gabriella decided on reefs in the main as an extra level of caution in the breezy conditions. Race 1 had its share of spectacles on the first spinnaker run from the Kaik to Lushingtons with several colourful broaches which shook up the standings somewhat, before the final beat back to Green Point. Transition found the inside track down the east coast line to pip the fleet, and take line honours. Gabriella was just over a minute behind. On handicap it was One Way followed by Afterglow and Transition with the balance of the fleet very close behind. It was impressive to see how well the Y88s handled the breeze with full mains and flat seas. 

 

The second race was sailed on the same course, with everyone gaining better control downwind. Gabriella led the fleet to the finish, just pipping Transition the final dash to the finish line. On handicap, however, those Young 88s showed their mettle with Afterglow claiming the win, followed by First Class and Transition. 

 

Sunday was a completely different story. – flip flop weather!

The forecasts were for northerlies turning gradually round to the west, ending up late afternoon in the south, with easy breezes all day. But hang on, we are in Akaroa and forecasts too often do not mean much, so we waited for a fitful breath of air to fill sails to get a race off, and when the boats could move, we started the first race of the day in under 5 tentative knots from the north around a short course. It was a case of many position changes as the wind was very erratic, but it all came together with One Way and  Gabriella finding some wind, finishing in that order. On handicap, it was One Way with the double, followed by First Class and then Gabriella. 

Race 4 was always going to be a toss-up, or a non-event as the wind became very fickle and twitchy. We set a simple short course to the south to the Kaik and quickly realised that it would need to be shortened to there and back to the finish. Suddenly the earlier coolness and gloom lifted to sun and heat as jackets and such were removed. It was a trying race. – a drifter up the coast. Look! There’s wind over there, and so and so has it! Alas with hardly any steerage at times, it was impossible to join the other boats bounty as they zoomed away, only to come to a dead stop further up. And on it went, until we all managed to get over the finish line and head for the refreshment stand at the club. One Way excelled again with the double, and Hyperactive scored the double for second, with First Class claiming third on handicap. 

Overall the series was won deservedly by One Way – well done. First Class came second, and Afterglow third. Well done to all crew and skippers, and a special thank you to Peter and Kevin, our starters who do a truly stellar job of making this all work. 

Regatta are incomplete without parties and that is precisely what took place afterwards. A good time had by all at the club. 

 

Next Sunday is the Pompeys Pillar Race with a noon start. Please check your compliance with Cat 4 requirements and that you have filled in your signed form confirming that you do fully comply. 

 

Fair winds everyone 

 

Photos attached taken by Tim Richardson of sailing on 4 January 2020

 

Membership Cards and Sailing Programme book

There are still a large number of sailing programme books (with membership cards enclosed) in the box at the Club rooms waiting to be collected.  If you do not have yours please check the box next time you are at the Club.

 

VHF Course

The Club is looking at running a VHF Radio Course.  The tutor will be Peter Marshall from Coastguard Boating Education and all those who attend and pass will receive a Maritime VHF Radio Operator Certificate.

The date of the course:       Saturday 15 February 2020

Starting time:                    10.00am

Venue:                             Akaroa Yacht Club

Cost:                               $120 per person

 

If you are interested in attending the course please contact

Glenys – secretary@akaroayachtclub.com no later than 20 January 2020

 

 

 

Glenys Roberts

Secretary

Akaroa Yacht Club Inc

secretary@akaroayachtclub.com

Phone:  021 1556420

 

Junior Race Day Dec 27^th 2019

The junior race day has become a popular and well supported sailing day for the club.

This year 6 club boats turned up to take out on the water about 25 junior sailors plus assorted parents and other interested adults.

 

The racing had an informal feel to it, in part because our regular starters were away and we struggled without them! Two short races were held in beautiful conditions with mild temperatures and steady winds. While some results were recorded the main measure of success was all the smiles on the faces of the junior sailors on return.

 

A great day on the water and great to see the young sailors mingling with their less young club mates. Special thanks to Stephen Horton for his great organization of the day. It felt a bit like drafting time at the sheep yards for a while down there!

 

The Guthrie Plate:  January 1st 2020

The Guthrie plate lived up to its reputation of bringing in the crowds with 12 boats on the start line and plenty of willing crew to go round.  The usual bright clear conditions on the harbour were lost under haze and smoke from the Australian bush fires. Our sympathies to the Australian cousins.

 

Snatch & Afterglow got the best starts and by midway to the heads Snatch & Astruso led the fleet. Beyond the Kaik the wind started to drop and boats were left searching for breeze across the harbour. By the time the fleet rounded the Heads mark boats had clustered together again although Snatch & Astruso were able to retain their lead.

 

A steady southerly breeze blew the fleet home under spinnakers but the weather gods had one more trick up their sleeves! Nearing the Kaik on the return home a strong southerly hit the fleet. Snatch took off under full sail and was reported to be doing over 20knots when suddenly…..their mast broke! Hyperactive unfortunately broke a boom in the same blow and several other boats in the fleet had their own exciting experiences to report.  Fortunately no crew were injured although poor Snatch will be out of action for a while.

 

Meanwhile the race continued, the wind moderated and Astruso sailed well to take out line honours ahead of Transition with First Class just edging out One Way for third.

On handicap it was a good day for the Young 88 fleet with First Class the winner, followed by One Way and then Hyperactive.  Full results are available on the club website.

 

Membership Cards and Sailing Programme book

There are still a large number of sailing programme books (with membership cards enclosed) in the box at the Club rooms waiting to be collected.  If you do not have yours please check the box next time you are at the Club.

 

VHF Course

The Club is looking at running a VHF Radio Course.  The tutor will be Peter Marshall from Coastguard Boating Education and all those who attend and pass will receive a Maritime VHF Radio Operator Certificate.

 

The date of the course: Saturday 15 February 2020

Cost: $120 per person

 

If you are interested in attending the course please contact

Glenys – secretary@akaroayachtclub.com no later than 20 January 2020.

Club Night

A reminder it is Club night tonight Friday 3 January 2020  – 6.00 – 8.00pm

 

 

 

Glenys Roberts

Secretary

Akaroa Yacht Club Inc

secretary@akaroayachtclub.com

Phone:  021 1556420

 

Sunday 22 December- Race3  Oborns Nautical Supplies Series

Nine boats sailed in the 3^rd Race in the Oborns series on a warm day in light breezes varying from NW to N and from 6 to 9knts.
The course was to Childrens Bay , Green Point,  Lushingtons, The Kaik, Lushingtons, Green Point and the Finish, which turned out to be a good selection for the conditions.

Snatch lead out of the start followed by Transition, Astruso, One Way and Lightly Oiled. These boats were first around Green Point and stayed at the front to the finish

Snatch sailing away- photo by Paul Drake

Regardless heading to Kaik- photo by Paul Drake
Snatch made the most of their good start and in conditions that suited they extended out their lead on every leg to finish first almost 30 minutes ahead of Transition in second place. The remainder of the fleet was more tightly bunched with Lightly Oiled, Gabrella, Astruso, One Way, Meltdown, Regardless, Penzance and Armalite in that order.

Snatch powered up in gentle breeze – photo by Hannah Anderson

Approaching the Kaik- photo by Paul Drake
The first 3 boats on handicap were Snatch, Lightly Oiled and One Way. One Way is now leading the Oborn series followed by Meltdown,  Snatch and Transition.

Action on Lightly Oiled leaving Lushingtons- photo by Hannah Anderson

It was great to see Lightly Oiled up with the leaders perhaps benefiting from more regular sailing.

 

Thanks are due to Keith Molloy and John MacDonald for taking over the startbox with the regular starters away and also to John Mac for manning the BBQ.

Wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and look forward to seeing plenty of boats out in the events below.

Upcoming Holiday Sailing
Juniors Day- Sunday 27^th December
This event starts at 1400 all juniors are welcome for a fun afternoon sailing on Keelboats.
We are calling out for boat owners to make themselves available together with sufficient crew to handle their boat. The bar and BBQ will be open afterwards.

The Guthrey Plate- New Years Day
The Heads Race for the Guthrey Plate is scheduled to start at 1300. A Heads turning mark will be laid on the day. This event often attracts the largest fleet of the season

Akaroa Dolphins New Year Regatta -4^th &5^th Jan
Two short harbour races each day with the first race scheduled to start at 1300.

 

Sunday 15 December- Peraki Race Grand Hotel Coastal Series

This week we raced the first of the Grand Hotel coastal series races. The course took the fleet out to the Heads and then a right turn along the coast for about five nautical miles to a virtual buoy off Peraki Bay and then home again.

Four boats lined up at the start line and Meltdown made the most of a downwind start and a  spinnaker run to lead the fleet away from Akaroa Bay. Regardless and Hyperactive chose paths on the eastern side of the harbour and overtook Meltdown to be first to the heads.

 Penzance passing the Kaik- photo courtesy of Bill McSweeney
The usual sloppy seas and variable winds greeted us outside the heads before a steady 15 to 20 kn nor’easter had us reaching for the virtual buoy. Hyperactive sailed a great leg to lead the fleet around the mark, followed by Regardless, Meltdown and Penzance.

Heading back to the harbour Regardless was leading but it was Penzance who took off and caught up with Meltdown & Hyperactive. Back through the heads and into the harbour Regardless extended their lead to the finish. Pleasingly the wind held up for the whole journey home and all four boats enjoyed good breeze and delightful sailing conditions. For those too busy before Christmas to come sailing you missed a great day on the water.

Over the finish line Regardless took line honours. Meltdown, Hyperactive and Penzance finished next in that order but remarkably close together after a long race.  To have the whole fleet back home in less than 4 ½ hours was very impressive.

On handicap Hyperactive were first  with Penzance a very close second & Meltdown third.

 

Sunday 22 December- Race3 Oborns Nautical Supplies
This Sunday is the third race in the Oborn’s Series starting at 1400hrs. 

Reminder Junior’s Sailing Day- Friday 27 December
The juniors sailing day will be on the Friday 27th December commencing at 1400hrs. The junior sailors will be spread around the boats as space allows so that each boat has a mixture of junior and experienced crew. This has become a very popular event with both the juniors and the yacht crews, and is a great way to extend the juniors involvement in sailing. It is proposed to set some short races, which will keep interest up throughout the afternoon.

ALL juniors interested in sailing are welcome including children who may not be presently involved in the Akaroa Sailing Club
It would be helpful if boat owners can confirm their likely availability to allow planning of numbers.

 

Sunday 8 December- Race 2 Oborn’s Nautical Series

Another pleasant day with a 10-18 knots Norwester, which was much more gentle than forecast. Course 27 was selected which was from the start to Green Point (Mark 9), twice around windward/leeward legs between Tikao (Mark 6), and Onuku (Mark 8) before a beat to Mark 9 and the Finish.

There was a little confusion in the prestart as bees had made a nest in the starters horn which prevented it from working! However, the lights still worked, and Peter Roberts, the race starter, gave some help on the VHF. It was a reaching start down to Mark 9 with Snatch bolting out of the gates first followed by One Way and Meltdown. Hyperactive started down the line. Meltdown sailed over One Way while Hyperactive came smoking along underneath to get around the mark second behind Snatch. Then it was up to Tikao with Transition doing well sailing low and fast.

The Bone Brothers looking to upgrade?- photo courtesy of Chris Mangels

The fleet rounded Tikao with Snatch first, Transition and Meltdown neck and neck for second followed by One Way, Hyperactive, Lightly Oiled and Armalite who were doing some mine sweeping at the rear. We all had a nice run down to Onuku although there was not quite enough breeze for Snatch to really hit her full potential.

Transition heading down to Onuku- photo courtesy of Kevin Kerr

The order of the boats rounding Onuku was Snatch, Transition, Meltdown, One Way, Hyperactive, Armalite, and Lightly Oiled. This stayed the same for the remainder of the race with the exception of Lightly Oiled picking up a place after hoisting a kite for the second run.  A lovely day out sailing, and it was great to see Lightly Oiled joining the fleet again.

The finishing order over the line was Snatch, Transition, Meltdown, One Way, Hyperactive, Lightly Oiled, and Armalite. The corrected time results were very close with only 8 minutes separating the fleet.

The overall positions after 2 races are One Way and Meltdown tied for first, and Snatch is third.

 

 

Sunday 15 December- Peraki Race- First Race in Grand Hotel Coastal Series
This Sunday is the Peraki Race Coastal Race  starting at 1200hrs. It will be necessary for all entrants to register at the startbox with complete list of crew names and a CAT4 safety declaration. Race instructions including GPS coordinates for the virtual mark at Peraki will be emailed later in the week

 

Newsletter December 1 2019

Saturday November 30- Saunders Robinson Brown Lawyers – Two-handed series Race1

A hardened bunch of sailors turned out for a wild and gusty first race with most participants heading to Club Med to hoist the sails which can be challenging with only two on board. The blustery NorEasterly saw only a couple of yachts make a decent start. First  mark was Children’s Bay with a quick run down to Green Point with everyone erring on the side of caution and no kites were flown. After rounding the mark first the fleet was split with some boats hugging the coast uptowards Lushingtons while the others chose a more middle harbour path up to Robinson’s Bay. There were some interesting easterly wind shifts out of Takamatua, while a more northerly channel persisted down Onawe Peninsula with Snatch weaving its way through the shifting winds. This made for some chopping and changing in positions. Having rounded the top mark it was down to Lushingtons with everyone except Snatch playing safe and not flying their kites. Then it was back up to Robinson’s Bay where there was no change to the interesting wind patterns. There was a meeting of the winds which culminated in a calm patch right at the top mark. On the run for home Snatch Astruso and One Way raised their kites and made good gains down the harbour towards Green Point. After rounding Green Point it was a quick and easy leg home.    

Handicap finishing order was Snatch 66 Harry/Dean  One Way 88 Tim/Jacqui  Astruso  Ross M/Brent C Afterglow Jonathan G / Craig P  Hyperactive 5881 Brian B /Mark W, Regardless Jonny/Jane

 

 There are 5 races in this series. so don’t be shy – find a friend to race the next one with on 18th Jan (and there is to be a discard at the end of the series).

Sunday 1 December- Race 1 Oborn’s Nautical Series
It was another glorious sailing day on Akaroa Harbour this week. Warm temperatures and for a change this season, lots of wind although it was gusty &  swinging between North &  North-east.

Seven boats crossed the start line although in gusty conditions  several  boats changed headsails immediately prior to the start and were late getting started.  Once again it was Snatch who got to the first  mark in the lead followed by Regardless.  By  the third mark (Lushingtons)  the lead had changed with Regardless showing her strength in the stronger winds. In the middle of the fleet Meltdown and Gabriella were bow to bow approaching the top mark before an infringement and a penalty turn by Gabriella gave Meltdown a chance to break free.

A long run to Wainui & a beat back to Lushingtons followed with Snatch & Regardless battling for the lead. Towards the  back of the fleet One Way picked up   some extra breeze on the Akaroa side of the harbour and made big  gains on the rest of the fleet.
 
Gabriella and Afterglow heading to Wainui- photo courtesy of Chris Mangels taken from One Way

Over the Line it was Regardless first, followed by Snatch and then Meltdown. On handicap Regardless took out a well-deserved double  with One Way second & Meltdown third.

Sunday 8 December- Race 2 Oborn’s Nautical Series
This Sunday is the second race  of the Oborn’s Series with a harbour course starting at 1400hrs.

Christmas Social
A reminder that the Christmas social is being held at the Clubrooms from 6pm on Saturday 7th December.
There will be a charge of $5 per head to cover a BBQ and finger food

Newsletter Sunday November 24th- Race No 5, 6 and 7 Black Cat Cruises Series

This week was the final day  of racing in the Black Cat Cruises Series and 3  races were planned.  A  strong southerly change forecast   for mid-afternoon would have the final say in that however!

Race 1 on the day started in light to moderate breeze with the wind oscillating between North  & North-west. Setting a course in the Nor –west is always tricky and for a change we had a down wind start with eight boats lined up. The boats quick to get their spinnakers up were rewarded with Snatch, Transition & Meltdown round the first  mark in that order. Snatch stretched out a lead over the next upwind leg from Green Point to Lushingtons.  Astruso  moved into second followed by  Meltdown.

Asturso enjoying the sail to Lushingtons- photos by Kev Kerr

The next leg had the fleet both reaching &  running out to the Kaik as the wind continued to swing &  then die away.  Snatch managed to  round the mark at the Kaik & head for home, while Meltdown & Astruso watched the rest of the fleet catch up from behind & then pass them.

Mark Walker on Transition

On the final beat to the finish line it was Afterglow who were the star performers coming from  well back in the fleet to a handicap winning position by picking a course towards the centre of the harbour. Meanwhile Snatch kept their winning record of  line honours finishes followed by Regardless then Gabriella. But the fun wasn’t over! Before the rest  of the fleet could finish the southerly change with 30-40 knot winds struck. Afterglow, Meltdown & Astruso went on the finish in exciting conditions, with Transition & One Way electing to  withdraw from the race.

On handicap a great result for Afterglow coming in first, followed by Gabriella and then Snatch.
Overall in the Black Cat Cruises series Snatch were convincing winners with Meltdown second & Gabriella third. Full results below.
Special thanks to our sponsors  for this series, Black Cat Cruises.

Sailing Sunday 1 December- Race 1 Oborn’s Nautical Series
This Sunday is the first day of the Oborn’s Series with a harbour race starting at 1400hrs.

Christmas Social
The Christmas social is being held at the Clubrooms from 6pm on Saturday 7th December.
There will be a charge of $5 per head to cover a BBQ and finger food

Juniors Sailing Day
The juniors sailing day will be on the Friday 27th December commencing at 1400hrs. The junior sailors will be spread around the boats as space allows so that each boat has a mixture of junior and experienced crew. This has become a very popular event with both the juniors and the yacht crews, and is a great way to extend the juniors involvement in sailing. It is proposed to set some short races, which will keep interest up throughout the afternoon.
It would be helpful if boat owners can confirm their likely availability to allow planning of numbers.

Message from the Secretary
Subscriptions
Thank you to all who have paid their 2019/2020 subscription.  Don’t forget to collect your membership card and sailing programme book from the Club rooms.
A reminder subscriptions are due and you have up until 30 November 2019 to take advantage of the early payment discount.
Subscriptions paid after 30 November 2019 will cost you more i.e. another $25.00.
If you have not received a subscription invoice or require another one to be sent please contact me:  secretary@akaroayachtclub.com

 

Newsletter Sunday November 17th- Race No4 Black Cat Cruises Series
Bright sun, a steady breeze and mild temperatures greeted this weeks fleet of 6 boats.
A  long harbour race was scheduled so we sailed a course up to Lushingtons, then out the harbour and back to Wainui twice before returning to Childrens Bay & the finish line.

Photo of Snatch taken on a windier day

Snatch has been the consistent performer of the fleet so far this season & once again they got a  great start and rounded the first mark in the lead, followed by Astruso and then Gabriella.
The boats stayed in that order round the next upwind mark, followed by Meltdown , Transition & One Way.

The Black Cat Cruises series this year has had its share of drama and then fickle winds but this week the sailing was about enjoying some beautiful weather on Akaroa harbour. There were very few dramas to report  and over the line the fleet came home in the same order they rounded the first mark with Snatch in the lead, followed by Astruso & then Gabriella.

Handicap times were close and again this week Snatch took out the double with Meltdown second and Gabriella third.

Sailing Sunday 24November- Races 5,6 and 7 Blackcat Series
This Sunday is the final day of the Blackcat Series with 3 sprint races starting at 1300hrs.
The scoring allows for a discard of the worst result after 6 races, which means that Sunday’s results will determine the final standings.

Race Photos
We are always looking for photos to add some colour to the weekly newsletter. Timmy Richardson often provides these but it would be great if other boats contributed as well to get a different perspective.
Photos can be emailed to secretary@akaroayachtclub.com. There is also the chance to win the Richard Macauley Trophy which is awarded annually for the AYC photo of the year

 

Newsletter Sunday November 10th- Race No3 Black Cat Cruises Series

After a challenging start  to our racing so far this season Race 3   finally gave us  some better  conditions and a keen  race fleet of seven  boats. The race started in 5-8 knots of southerly with a coarse round Green Point, Lushingtons, Wainui &  Lushingtons again.

Gabriella got a jump  on the fleet at the start but unfortunately they also had a jump on the start  line and they were called back. The rest of the fleet were left with the familiar sight of Snatch taking a lead round the first  mark  before a spinnaker run to Lushingtons.  Astruso & Transition were in  close pursuit.  Before long the Southerly died and a Nor-West replaced it so we ended up sailing a reaching leg out the harbour to Wainui.

Meltdown heading to Wainui

Regardless & Transition lost the   wind near the Wainui side of the harbour , letting Meltdown , One Way  & Gabriella catch up down the centre of the harbour. Yet another wind change saw a Nor –easter spring up as Snatch,  Astruso ,Regardless & Meltdown led the fleet back to mark 9 (Green Point)

One Way sailing to Mark9
It  was a day of big wind changes and the southerly returned for the final short run from mark 9 to the finish.
For the second week in a row it was Snatch  who  crossed the line  first ,  followed by Astruso. In a race within a race Meltdown & Regardless had a close final tussle for the line under spinnaker before Meltdown edged ahead. Further back in the fleet Gabriella , One Way & Transition all crossed the line within 15 seconds of each other.

Photo of Transition taken from One Way nearing the finish line- courtesy Tim Richardson

Snatch again took out the double with handicap honours as well this week, followed by Meltdown , with One Way third. Full &  overall results listed below.

Sailing Sunday 17 November
The fourth race in the Blackcat Series is scheduled for this weekend with a 1300hr scheduled start and a long harbour race.

Bar Duty Roster
The bar duty roster for the first part of the 2019-2020 season is below. If you are unable to undertake your duty on the day selected please arrange with another boat to swop days

YACHT                                                           DUTY OFFICER
OCT 27^th Committee                                     Committee
NOV 3^rd Melt Down                                      Gil Smith
NOV 10^th Transition                                      Patsy Little
NOV 17^th Regardless                                     David Maloney
NOV 24^th One Way                                        Tim Anderson
NOV 30^th Afterglow                                       Bill McSweeney
DEC 1^st Future One                                        Keith Molloy
DEC 7^th Committee (Xmas Party)                Committee
DEC 8^th Hyper Active                                     Charl Chaney
Dec 15^th Armalite                                           Peter Gluyas
DEC 22^ND Penzance                                        Alex Aitken
DEC 27^th Gabriella                                          Stephen Horton
JAN 1^st Astruso                                                John Macdonald
JAN 4^th Snatch                                                 Phil Narbey
JAN 5^th Lightly Oiled                                        Ali Chaney
JAN 12^th Transition                                          Brian Little
JAN 18^th Regardless                                         Peter Zwart
Jan 19^th Melt Down                                         Gil Smith

Subscriptions
Thank you to all who have paid their 2019/2020 subscription.  Don’t forget to collect your membership card and sailing programme book from the Club rooms.
A reminder subscriptions are due and you have up until 30 November 2019 to take advantage of the early payment discount.
Subscriptions paid after 30 November 2019 will cost you more i.e. another $25.00.
If you have not received a subscription invoice or require another one to be sent please contact me:  secretary@akaroayachtclub.com

Newsletter Sunday November 3rd

– Race No2 Black Cat Cruises Series

Summer arrived in Akaroa this weekend. Blue skies, warm temperatures, lots of sun…..and very little wind!  The fleet of 8 boats sat round at the start line in the heat for well over an hour waiting for the wind to arrive. We   got puffs from the Nor-east, from the south and from the Nor-west but nothing steady.

One Way with Shore Crew prior to race

Racing finally got under way later in the afternoon with a light breeze from the south.  A short course took the boats to Green Point, Lushingtons, back to Green Point and then home. Snatch pulled away to be at the top mark first, followed by Astruso and then Gabriella. By the next mark the wind was up its old tricks with a 180 degree swing to the Nor-east. Snatch managed to stay in the breeze and build a commanding lead. The rest of the fleet were left drifting between breezes and testing the patience of all the sailors on the water.

Snatch were the star performers of the day finishing almost an hour ahead of Regardless who were second over the line with One Way and Gabriella recording the same time about a minute further back. Race rules state that boats must finish in a time within 150% of the winners time and on a day of fickle and frustrating wind no one managed this.
So both Line and handicaps honours go to the crew of Snatch.
Full results listed below.

We will all be hoping for something better from the weather gods next weekend.

Sailing Sunday 10 November
The third race in the Blackcat Series is scheduled for this weekend with a 1400hr scheduled start and a harbour race.

AYC 2019-2020 Season Opening Saturday 26th October The opening function on Saturday night was well attended and enjoyed by all. Thanks are due to Ali Chaney and the club members who helped with the catering which was enjoyed by all. The mood of the evening rapidly fell away later as the WRC Semi-final disaster unfolded. Opening Day Race A good fleet of 9 boats were entered but with the wind swinging from NE to NW and between 5 and 20kts sailing conditions were not ideal for the opening Day Race, nor even the Commodore’s sailpast. The first short leg was to mark2 in Childrens Bay followed by a reach to Green Point mark9. The wind was moderate for these legs, and the front runners included Racing Car, Astruso, Gabriella, Regardless and Penzance with a gap back to Meltdown, Transition, One Way and Armalite. The next leg was a beat to Mark3 in Lushingtons Bay with the wind strength now climbing to gust over 30kts, and conditions became testing. Boats such as One Way, which had selected smaller headsails, started to gain. However, halfway to Mark3 a major collision occurred between Racing Car and Gabriella which resulted in Racing Car rapidly sinking and the crew jumping clear. Racing Car resting on the seabed Racing was immediately abandoned and Racing Car’s crew were pulled onto the nearest boats. Most importantly all crew were picked up quickly and without injury. We offer our condolences to Sam Cowdy on Racing Car’s sinking and hope that a successful salvage is possible . Health and Safety Peter Zwart has provided the following report Health and Safety Report 27 October 2019 Incident Report The incident on 27 October 2019 that resulted in the sinking of Racing Car has provided a timely opportunity for us to review AYC procedures and deal with any perceived weaknesses.  This will take a while and any proposed changes will need to go through the full committee. In the meantime we will adopt the following changes in racing procedures on a temporary basis: 1.  Skippers signing in on all races, will need to provide the total number of crew on Board (including Skipper), at the time of signing in. Any subsequent changes should be radioed in to the Starters. In addition for coastal races all crew names are to be listed on the entry form. 2. In any serious incident, including loss of a boat, the Racing Officer of the day will be responsible for communication of the incident back to the Clubhouse. The Clubhouse/Starters will communicate where necessary with emergency services. 3.  All school aged children on boats during races must be wearing an appropriate fitting life jacket. As above these are temporary changes which will take effect immediately and continue to apply until we can review all the findings from this incident. Thanks Peter Zwart H & S Officer Sailing Sunday 3 November The second race in the Blackcat Series is scheduled for this weekend with a 1400hr scheduled start and a harbour race.

2019-2020 Season Opening
It’s only 3 weeks until Labour weekend and the AYC opening. I wont mention winter boat maintenance, which will now be all but complete.

Social Function
26^th October -the opening function will be held at the clubrooms commencing 1800hrs. This will include a BBQ meal organised by Ali Chaney who has taken over as social convenor. All AYC members are most welcome to join in a celebration of the new season
Annual Sailpast
27^th October- 1300hrs sail-past- once again our Commodore, Charl Chaney, will be on station at the end of the AYC jetty ready to salute the fleet and receive ‘greetings’ from the yacht crews. Non racing yachts, dinghies and launches are welcome to join in the fun.
Opening Day Race
27^th October- The opening day race start is scheduled for 1400hrs. This will be a harbour course and is also the first race in the Blackcat series.

Handbook 2019-2020
The new seasons handbook will be available at the AYC during the weekend (providing subs are paid)
There are a number of changes in the Handbook including revised courses and sailing instructions so the 2019-2020 version is a must have on board during races.
A change to the start-line has been made to allow that a substitute mark1a can be placed on the day in order to decrease the bias that occurs with the existing startline in northerly winds. This is described in detail in SI 10.0

Sailing Programme
The racing programme for this season is below.
Changes include increased numbers of 2-Handed Races, and a Mark Foy invitation series of 2 races that will be held over the weekends when the Young88 and Canterbury Keelboat Championships are being held in Lyttelton

Handicaps
PHRF has been retained as the handicap system for the coming season, and it will be necessary to have a current PHRF certificate to get a result. Renewal of the PHRF certificate is a straightforward process online at the following link https://www.yachtingnz.org.nz/shop/phrf.

Safety
As a reminder all boats are required to comply with the YNZ safety regulations Category 5 for Harbour Races and Category 4 for Coastal Races. Entry in a race confirms acceptance by the Skipper of responsibility for safety compliance.
Peter Zwart has been appointed Health and Safety Officer for 2019-2020 and should be approached with any queries.

Finally best wishes from the Race Committee for an enjoyable, and successful 2019-2020 sailing  season