Royal Air Force Yacht Club

(Paul Oliver - Calsara)

A few weeks ago I met Chris Furner during Happy Hour. Chris is a recently joined temporary member and new sailor who was about to engage upon his RYA Competent Crew Course. We met again at Happy hour a week later and with Chris displaying a new found air of competence and raring to go sailing, we talked of the Lymington Rally. Marilyn & I had previously invited friends who had to back out unexpectedly, so we invited Chris along. Marilyn appreciated having an extra pair of hands on board (less work, more sunbathing) and I appreciated having an enthusiastic crew.

Marilyn and Chris Furner

I had thought she may have been reticent to have a stranger on board, but having met Chris previously, Marilyn was quite happy and had well thought out the crewing advantages in advance. I suspect there are several other married club members who could benefit in the same way.

Marilyn turning Paul on or perhaps OFF

The passage to Lymington involved a good deal of sunshine but little sailing; the iron mainsail getting us there in good time to enjoy a well attended pontoon party. Chris & Rachel from Firefly, rapidly becoming regular rally goers, took well judged advantage to have their application for full membership proposed and seconded on the spot. There is a tip here for temporary members; don't be afraid to ask.

Firefly survives the Lymington Ferry Experience

The Lymington Rally was well attended as usual, with around 30 boats taking part and well in excess of 60 members enjoying the evening meal. Lymington is a popular venue and having the Dan Bran pontoon booked in advance for club members made for a confident arrival, together with walk ashore access to the restaurant and other facilities, thanks to the reciprocal arrangement with The Lymington Sailing Club.

Dinner at Speed                                                               Robin slides under the table

Simon talks about sizes Marilyn is unphased                            John (No mates) Watts wonders where they went

Sunday morning brought a decent sailing breeze so we set off early to take advantage. We had not registered for the club race back to the Hamble but did enjoy pitting Calsara against a racing fleet from Lymington, overhauling several boats on the way. 17 knots of wind and a slippery bottom gave us almost 9 knots at times. Nice.

The wind became slight and variable a mile or so west of Calshot, which tested our sailing skills and decision making, in some welcome sunshine. The wind increased a little and 5.5 knots saw us sail back to the Hamble cardinal mark.

Chris Furner enjoyed his first "proper sail" (his words, honestly) and I enjoyed having a willing volunteer to scrub down the decks, back at the mooring. After a leisurely lunch on board we took the launch back to the club for a well earned pint. Result.