GMYBC Newsletter Autumn 2006 Page 1

Gosport Model Yacht & Boat Club
Affiliated to the Model Yachting Association (MYA)
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Autumn 2010 Spring 2010 Autumn 2009 Spring 2009 Autumn 2008 Spring 2008 Autumn 2007 Spring 2007 Autumn 2006

Newsletter August 2011 Click HERE to view

Autumn 2010

GMY&BC
web Sites
www.gosportmybc.org.uk
www.rclasergosport.org.uk
WORKSHOP REPORT
PRACC REPORT
COMMITTEE BUSINESS
IOM NATIONALS AUGUST 2011
VANE “A” NATIONALS
REPORT
RAY’S SHIELD and Vane “A”s
RECYCLED BOAT RACE

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE
The Club has had another super year with skippers having success at all levels of competitions. The membership stands at 124 with several more applications following in the system. The members, the relatively weed free lake, the Clubhouse facility and our excellent sailing programme continue to draw new skippers to Gosport who bring healthy competition to our events. We have opened the facilities to less fortunate Clubs who have suffered severe weed problems this year and judging by the coverage in the model press we are fortunate to be sailing on well managed salt water with good support from Gosport Borough Council.
This year the team of Mervyn Cook and Peter Fothergill won the Met & Southern Vane A Championships in June and then went on during the August A Nationals to win the World Famous Yachting Monthly Cup. The Scrutton Cup which is also sailed for and awarded at the A Class Nationals was won by Shaun Wyeth and Brian Smith. Graham Wyeth and Mike Dann came third loosing in the sail off for second place to Roger and Peter Stollery. Gosport last won both of these two national events in 1966 when Roy Gardner, sailing Odyssey, won the Scrutton and the Yachting Monthly Cup.
The Club flags were flying during A Week and some of you will have noticed the banner on South Street and the new Club /A Class Banner on the Club House confirming our founding year of 1913. Remember 2013 is our Centenary so please ensure that you let the Class Captains or the Committee have any ideas that you think will contribute to making this a success. We have started by enquiring what level of support GMY&BC could expect for a RC Laser Global Championship event.
Sadly Richard Van Kenpen 1933-2010 one of our members died in July, and also Max Jones 1913-2010 in August. Max was the last of the Jones family that successfully sailed the A Class in the 1920/30’s. Although 97 he visited this years A Class Nationals just a few weeks before he died. The IOM Skippers held a minutes silence for these and all past members of GMY&BC prior to Sundays sailing which was incidentally for a trophy presented by Charles Brazier one of our past members.
We suffered sailing restrictions from the contamination in the small pond for two weeks and were able to run the PRACC by adopting hygiene precautions, recommended by the Gosport Borough Council. We are able to continue Club sailing as long as we continue with these sensible hand washing procedures. The GBC have also placed notices discouraging the feeding of the birds in the small lake to reduce the effects of bread, yeast and the bird’s waste on the water quality.

2010 WORKSHOP Report by MERVYN COOK

Those that were unable to attend the workshop this year missed a great day. Twenty people attended the day from as far afield as the lsle of Wight, Bristol and West Sussex. Participants commented that it was informative, interesting and, most of all, fun. An enormous thank you must go to all the presenters and those that helped to make the day such a resounding success. Roy Scott, through a brilliant practical demonstration, showed how to make sails from scratch. We were shown how to construct various jigs to make shaped blocks that put shape and flow into sails and to make accurate cuts and joins. He provided helpful tips on how to use equipment as he built first a mainsail and then a jib for an lOM.
Bill Green went thoroughly through the different components and the different types you can buy to make up the electrics for your radio boat. Magician-like he provided examples and explained the pros and cons of each. This culminated in a demonstration of the most up to date systems where speed and accuracy are assured.
Mervyn Cook succinctly explained how to keep your boat in class and preparations for measurement. The pitfalls of making your boat heavier through changing equipment and neglecting mast and deck marks were outlined. The handout enabled skippers to find the necessary documents on the MYA site so everyone can do their own checks.
David Edwards clearly illustrated strategies for a quick get away at the start rather than sail into the 'kamikaze zone' at the starboard end of the starting line. These tips were then applied on the water using a fleet of four lasers, a class of boat that was new to many participants. A series of starts enabled skippers to try out their new skills.
Peter Fothergill provided a skilled introduction to the art of vane sailing. The role of the vane, feather and basic rules were explained. A practical demonstration of vane setting led to on the water practice using two vane 36 boats. Experienced and novice skippers and crews were soon wielding poles and sending boats in different directions.
Mike Dann and Pete Lawley successfully encouraged all to try multi-hull sailing. The ease (?) of construction, from bottles to ply, was demonstrated. Soon everyone was having a go and improving from slow backwards to 'flying a hull'. The speed run was addictive for some as they tried to improve their times. The final winner was John Storey with a time of l minute 46 seconds. Wind speeds varied through out the day. Times were recorded by the following skippers new to multi-hulling:

Group A
John Park 3:38: Dave Swainson 2:2O: Eric Thomas Capsized: Tony Reader 3:16: Keith Way 3:30:
Group B
Mark Lewis 3:51: Dave Cox 2:43:
Group C
Neil Rothwell 2.21: Eric Meighen 1.50:
Group D
Malcolm Donald 2:20: Jacque Cook 1:51: John Storey 1:46:

PRACC 19th SEPTEMBER by ROBERT HOBBS

1. Colin Trower 13
2. DaveAndrews13
3. Lester Gilbert 16
4. DerekPriestley19
5. JohnWhite 28
6. Clive Tappenden 35
7.Mike Nichols36
8. VernonAppleton38.7
9.Mike Harris 41
10. DavidMunro 44
11. JerryCollier 44
12. LindaMunro 53
13. NeilRothwell 54
14. BillGreen 73
15. JohnSmith73
16. RichardUtley 76
17. Vic Padget 83
18. TonyGuerrier 84
19. Lynne Rowcroft 90
20. SteveEhlers 101
21. AlanOxlade107
22. John Osborne 109
23. Colin Cooper 129
24. ChrisDurant 139

Twenty four skippers took part in the Gosport PRACC. The winds were south-westerly veering to straight down the lake, ideal for two large fleets of RA’s. The race team consisted of Mike Tattersall on the race board, Malcolm Donald, Mervyn Cook and Henry Ellis on the finish, Dave Cox on the start with Alan Southwell on the computer; Paul Edwards and Paul Nesbitt organising the observers, Jacque Cook looked after the booking in and credential checking with Arnie Peace managing the buoys and flags. Two fleets were raced with four up and four down. We managed to achieve eight races, which meant sixteen starts within the day with a small break for lunch and the dayssailing was only interrupted with two short protests.

The results on the left hand show how close the racing was, the event being decided in the last race, with count backs settling the result.
Well sailed Colin.

HENRY THORPE SHARES HIS RA CLASS PHOTOS

COMMITTEE BUSINESS
New Sailing Secretary
We welcomed Dave Cox to his first meeting and thanked him for accepting the position of Sailing Secretary.
Membership status. there are now 123 members.
Application for Membership: A new application has been approved; John Arundel.
MYA Membership Cards: It has been brought to the attention of the Committee that the MYA are proposing that MYA Members be issued with membership cards that would not have a date printed on the card. This is to make the issue of membership cards easier for the MYA. The Committee reasoned that this was a mistake and could lead to the misuse of such cards and that ceased members could still use their cards regardless that they were no longer members of the MYA. The use of web access to check current membership was not thought a workable solution. We have written to the MYA stating the Clubs fears about this issue.
Financial State: BL reported that the financial status of the Club is in a satisfactory position.
Clubhouse/Boat Store.
Electrical installations. The following electrical work has been carried out in the Club House to ensure correct working conditions for the laser printer; a new heater provided with frost protection device and key access.
Main Doors. A notice has been placed on the main doors informing members to contact PL if any damage
occurs or is observed in the Boat and Club House. A further notice concerning contacting the “Alarm Company” will also be installed.
Floor Covering. It has become apparent that the floor tiles in the club house and the painted surface in the
boat house is deteriorating. The Committee agreed that this matter should be addressed and we will contact a company with the intention of renewing the covering throughout the premises.
Pump Failure. The pump has failed numerous times of late and at present has to be activated manually. This
is an unacceptable arrangement and the GBC are looking into this as a matter of urgency to provide an alternative control system. We have written to the GBC and the new system was installed at the end of September.
Waterproof cover for Starting Box. This cover was missing and a new one has been supplied.
2011 Sailing Programme:
Dates The Vane/Vintage competitions for 2011 are under review and these dates are to be pencilled in the
diary. The Vintage events selected will include the M&S Championships. MC is to discuss the possible clash of dates in the Vane calendar and to keep them to a minimum -. bearing in mind that the main dates are set by the MYA and their calendar.
It is proposed that the Club apply to the M&S for following events to be held at Gosport next year; National Vane “36” Championships; “36” M&S Vane Championships; M&S Veteran RA and M&S IOM. It will be suggested that some of these events should be held on a Saturday. It was agreed that DC, MC, and JC and DC would attended the M&S AGM to agree the sailing programme for next year.
Vane A Nationals
The event was a success and the Commodore and Committee wish to thank Jacque and Mervyn Cook and
members of the GMY&BC who all worked hard to ensure that the event was up to the high standard that has become the benchmark for the way that competitions are run at Gosport. Comments were also received concerning the excellent way the hall for the dinner had been decorated – this was due to the expertise of Pete and Julie Lawley.
JC is to send the accounts of the competition to the MYA. A loss was sustained and it is proposed that the entry fee be raised to ensure that in future the event can break even as far as the expenditure is concerned. JC is to send a letter outlining these facts and suggestions to the Metropolitan and Southern Secretary with a copy to the MYA. Comments were received concerning the flying of our new MYA flag during the competition.
Council Business.
Walpole Lakes Interpretation Board . The new interpretation board is underway again. There have been corrections to the draft wording. The site chosen by the Committee for the board to be erected is to the east of the two seats by the Club House. The Club will donate £200.00 towards this scheme that includes the Bye Laws boards.
Water Balls. The Committee are aware that there has been interest by the GBC for the use of “Water Balls” on the lake. To date no further information is available.
2013 Laser Global Championships The MYA have agreed that this competition can take place.
The Committee are aware that we need to know before the end of 2011 whether the Laser Class from around the world will support this event. If support is not forthcoming then another class competition will be considered.
At the 2010 Laser AGM it was agreed to support this proposed event.
This event will be on constant review during 2011
New Laser Printer. The existing Laser Printer has become faulty. Discussion took place on why this should have occurred and whether there was any way in that we could ensure such fault a did not happen again. It was agreed that because there could be a problem in the temperature fluctuation within the club house, especially during the winter months, a low electrical consumption oil heater be purchased and fixed in the vicinity of the printer. A new thermometer and humidity measure has been purchased and installed to help in determining the actual climatic conditions within the Club House.
A new Laser printer will be purchased (not for general printing use) as well as an Ink Jet printer for “small run” printing purposes. The required new electric points and protection devices have be installed .
MYA Workshops. The Club has received a suggestion that a MYA Worksop could be run at a Vane National Event at either Fleetwood or Gosport. This idea originated from Gordon Edmundson the MYA Met & Southern District Officer, who thought that this would be one time where all the “experts “ would be at one time.
The Committee agreed that such an event would cause confusion and a great deal of work. The idea was reluctantly referred to Gordon and the MYA for further discussions. May be such an event could be tried at Fleetwood in 2011
New Vane Trophy. A new trophy has been designed and made by Ray Hersee. Thanks Ray for this super new trophy which will be used for the new 36 event..
Invitation to Councillor Carter. We invited Councillor Chris Carter to the PRACC meeting. This is in light of the councillor’s interest in the Club whenever he has attended in his official capacity as Deputy Mayor. It is hoped that this invitation would allow him more time to appreciate the details of model yacht sailing.

IOM UK NATIONALS 2011
We are hosting the U K Nationals in 2011, this is an open event, over the week-end of the August Bank Holiday 27, 28, 29th . This is normally a large event with some seventy plus skippers taking part, generally there are four or five fleets with their attendant management requirements. Dave Cox, Radio Secretary, will therefore be looking for substantial help in making this event a truly Gosport success.

2010 A CHAMPIONSHIPS MERVYN COOK REPORTS
HISTORIC VICTORIES FOR GOSPORT SKIPPERS!!!!!
The Vane A championship was first held at Gosport in the nineteen-twenties. In modern times it is held at The Walpole Lakes every other year. This year was our year, with Gosport skippers taking all the major trophies for the first time in 44 years, winning both the Scrutton Cup, and the Yachting Monthly Cup.
Shaun Wyeth crewed by Brian Smith won the week’s big prize, the national championship. This was the first time for forty years that a Gosport skipper has won it. Shaun and Brian also took the Johnny's Cup for the best score in the windward legs. But for a nail-biting sail-off on the final day, it was so very nearly a Wyeth one-two. Having tied for second, Graham Wyeth had to sail off against Peter Stollery, last year's champion, and just lost out, to come third overall.
For those of you who don't vane sail, the physical stamina and mental toughness required to maintain concentration for a full week's racing against top skippers is akin to torture! One lost board can lose a championship, and the unstable weather conditions experienced during the week made it a very tense time. Ray Baker, crewed by Arnie Peace showed very well in the early stages of the racing and finished 12th only four points behind co-skippers Mervyn Cook and Peter Fothergill. Congratulations to Shaun, Brian, Graham, and Mike Dann (who sailed with Graham towards the end of the week). Congratulations also to Eric Meighen, who in his first year of vane sailing was mate to Fleetwood’s Alan Bell who was placed fifth overall and won the Little Portugal Cup.
The Yachting Monthly Trophy is a race within a race; the whole fleet sailing in a knock-out series for the magnificent trophy. This was first awarded in the 1920's to be raced against visiting foreign yachts. The event is excellent for spectators as the competition is designed to be fast and furious. Shaun had won this trophy twice in recent years, and this year the final was eventually sailed with Shaun and Brian against Peter and Mervyn. However, Peter and Mervyn won both boards to take the trophy for 2010.
To cap all this, the nominated Gosport team of Shaun and Brian, Graham, Mervyn and Peter also won the Neptune Team Trophy.
The organisation of the event was also a huge success, thanks to the team of Gosport members who worked so hard to make everything function smoothly for the competitors. Bill Green was the Principal Race Officer, Chris Durant his deputy, Jacque Cook was really the overall organiser, coping with everything from the initial notice of race, to the final dinner. The meeting wouldn't have been the same without her dedication!
Pete and July Lawley were involved in all the practical things, from loos to flags, and took turns in starting and finishing duties. They also set up and decorated the hall in a spectacular fashion for the prize giving.
The dinner itself was run by Martin Bandey, who is a remarkable master of ceremonies! John Smith's accurate and effective scoring system coped smoothly with the complexities of scoring a week’s racing. At the touch of a button there were daily updates of accumulated scores, and positions and team trophies were scored automatically. John also took plenty of photographs so that final memento presentations for each skipper included their score-sheets, overall positions and action pictures of their boat. Dave Cox took some stunning photos with some interesting ‘people’ shots. Further, the drama of the Yachting Monthly Cup quarter, semi and finals, filmed and commentated by Malcolm McDonald appeared on his web site the Wednesday evening. How is that for a fast service! Finally, Eric Thomas helped the race team during the week. The event was one which the whole club should be proud to have staged, and our thanks go to everyone who was involved. Also thanks to those who came and watched, and supported the home team. One last big thank you to those members of the radio A fleet who volunteered to return the buoys to the lake at the end of the event.
The results must be due in part to the fact that we at Gosport have regular club vane racing, in both A's and 36's. In October there is a special trophy event for the 36 class, which will be run on a format similar to a mini Yachting Monthly Cup. If you are a vane sailor, don't forget to be there! If you aren't, but would like to come along to see what it is all about, you'll be made very welcome.

MORE VANE NEWS from MERVYN
On Saturday 16th October a Special trophy event will be held for Vane 36's yachts.
This will be in the form of a 'mini' Yachting Monthly Cup, with a whole fleet round robin, leading to a final sail-off. Ray Hersee has very kindly carved and presented an oak shield for this event, to be called the 'Gosport 36 Shield.'

VANE A YACHTS by DAVE COX

GMY&BC
Web sites
www.gosportmybc.org. uk
www.rclasergosport.org.uk

54 Guildford Drive
Chandlers Ford
Hants
SO 53 3PT
Email:roberto.hobbs@virgin.net

What is it?

GOSPORT IS THE
TRADITIONAL
HOME OF THE
“A” CLASS

Also a safe haven for RC Laser, IOM,
36”, Marblehead, Multihull, Scale Boats and
Vintage Yachts

RECYCLED BOAT RACE

This years Recycled Boat Race was attended by the Mayor Cllr Roger Allen and Deputy Mayor Cllr Chris Carter. The children had a super day with prizes being
donated by ASDA ,Explosion Museum and the Arena Group. This year all the boats competing were made by the children themselves on one day, thus eliminating helpful ! Parents. This event involves local play groups the Council and the Club providing access for all thus improving our relationship with the local community.

Spring 2010

In this issue
Club Champions
Committee Business
2010 Club Calendar
Free Sailing
Radio A Class
Multihulls
Rule Changes
IOM Report
RC Laser’s
Stop Press
Boat House News

Commodore's Message

This is our tenth year of the Club’s News Letter and the content has changed somewhat
with more information, more racing and more members involved. We have progressed from
an all time membership low of eighteen to a staggering one hundred and thirty. The racing
calendar now contains ninetyseven scheduled events and that is without the Club sailing on
Tuesdays and Thursdays. The reason for the continuing success is shown in these two picture.
The present membership is the life blood of the Club and the magnificent collection of
Trophies is a testament to our famous history and the bed rock of the Club. Our facilities
are second to none, the Club House and Boat Store give us a super focal point for our activities
and the easy accessible Lake is the envy of many Clubs throughout the UK if not the
world. Our centenary year is 2013, although we have been sailing here since the 1890’s, and
to make this a success all of you must contribute to make this event one that the radio and
vane sailing skippers of the world and especially the Club can be truly proud.

The Club 2009 Champions

Radio A Class Easter Cup Coronation Cup RA Series Creston Cup McPherson Cup McGilloway Cup RA Club Rodney Cup	Martin Raishbrook Colin Cooper 1st Peter Fothergill 174 pts 2nd Brian Leighton 152 pts 3rd Mike Nichol 124 pts 1st Peter Fothergill 191 pts 2nd Brian Leighton 185 pts 3rd Mike Nichol 162 pts	Peter Fothergill
IOM Class Currey Mug Q Cup March Hare Cup Consolation Cup Matthew Cup Brazier Trophy Trinity Cup Brothers Cup IOM AM Series Club Championship IOM PM Series Clubman Trophy IOM Club Jubilee Cup	Nigel Brown Chris Treagust Chris Treagust Colin Cooper Colin Cooper Colin Cooper Richard Wills Colin Cooper 1st Richard Wills 134 pts 2nd Robert Hobbs 118 pts 3rd Colin Cooper 105 pts 1st Colin Cooper 65 pts 2nd Robert Hobbs 58 pts 3rd Richard Wills 52 pts 1st Colin Cooper 319 pts 2nd Richard Wills 287 pts 3rd Robert Hobbs 284 pts	Colin Cooper
RC Laser Class Trojan Cup Winter Series Munster Cup Spring Series Rowe Bowl Summer Series Sally Irvine Cup Thursday Evening Corke Trophy Autumn Series Electric Cup RC Laser Overall Tamplin Cup Sandford Cup Francis Cup	(Note RC Lasers use Low Point Scoring) Alec Powell 1st Alec Powell 62 pts 2nd Denis Bookham 79 pts 3rd Alex Powell 132 pts 1st Alex Powell 60 pts 2nd Chris Moore 88 pts 3rd Fred Body 175 pts 1st Alex Powell 50 pts 2nd David Edwards 69 pts 3rd Denis Bookham 71 pts 1st Denis Bookham 77 pts 2nd Chris Moore 82 pts 3rd Fred Body 122 pts 1st Alec Powell 48 pts 2nd David Edwards 52 pts 3rd Denis Bookham 62 pts 1st Alex Powell 386 pts (high points) 2nd Alec Powell 382 pts 3rd Denis Bookham 380 pts	Alec Powell
Multihull Championships Club Points Munster Trophy Speed Event Whittaker Cup Vane Championships A Class Six –a-Side Cup 36” Bilmor Cup Club Vane Championship Nyria Trophy India Plate Photographic Comp Most Improved Skipper Taylor Trophy Most work for the Club Astrape Cup	1st Mike Dann 1st Mike Dann 1st Graham Wyeth 1st Mike Dann 1st Peter Fothergill Brian Leighton Jacquie Cook Julie & Peter Lawley	Mike Dann
THE OVERALL CLUB RADIO CHAMPIONSHIP Yachtmaster Cup	1st Colin Cooper 550 pts 2nd Denis Bookham 435 pts 3rd Robert Hobbs 435 pts 4th Chris Moore 349 pts 5th Alec Powell 330 pts	Brian Leighton
	Julie and Peter Lawley with the Astrape Trophy on the left Jacquie Cook with the Taylor Trophy on the right

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Financial State: The financial position of the Club is in a satisfactory position. Ex members have all been written to for the return of security keys. This is one of the measures that the Committee are putting into place to ensure that the security of the Clubhouse is kept at a highest level possible that we can operate without affecting the normal running of the Club.
The locks were changed on the day of the 2009 AGM and the key exchange is well under way.
New Appliances. A new electric hand dryer and soap dispenser have been fitted in the toilet. Notices have been installed reminding members to turn off the taps, close and lock the doors and set the security alarm.
Rubbish Bins by the lake. An extra rubbish bin, funded by the Club is to be installed by the Club House.
2013 Laser Global Championships. Posters are being circulated and press releases sent to the magazines requesting
support for this event which now features strongly on the Club websites.
2009 AGM Venue. The Scout Centre in Clayhall Road Alverstoke, Gosport, used this year was very successful, thanks Peter for arranging access.
Mayor’s Charity: The three charities that the Mayor has chosen for her charities are; Motivation (for the youth of the Borough), Roof renewal for Bury House, and Dementia Awareness. We donated £100.00 each for both the Dementia Awareness and Motivation appeals, thus getting possible support at both ends of our skipper spectrum.
MYA Workshop 2010 at Gosport. This workshop will be held at the Club on 10.7.2010 and we are seeking names of people who will talk about or demonstrate various skills that are associated with model sailing for this event.
Flags. We have purchased two additional flags for the Club, a new Club Logo and a full size MYA one.

Club Stickers We will be purchasing Club Logo stickers in the near future. They will be 65mm dia., pot lid size, and will cost 50p each from Brian Leighton the Treasurer.

There is only a small Committee business section this issue as most items have been covered in the AGM
and the circulated minutes.

2010 Club Calendar

Gosport Model Yacht & Boat Club
Programme
2010		Nationals	District	Club	Others
January	2			RC Laser
	3			Sail in All Classes
	9			Vane 36
	10			IOM
	16			RC Laser
	17			RA
	23			Multihulls
	24			IOM
	30			RC Laser (Cup)	Trojan Cup
	31			IOM (1)
February	6			Vane 36 (1)
	7			RA
	13			RC Laser
	14			IOM CUP	Curry Mug
	20			Multihulls
	21			RA(1)
	27			RC Laser
	28			IOM (2)
March	6			Vane 36 (2)
	7			RA(2)	RA TEAM WITH POOLE
	13			RC Laser )
	14			IOM CUP	Q Cup
	20			Multihulls
	21			VANE A (1)
	27			RC Laser )
	28		PRACC Eastbourne	IOM CUP	March Hare Cup
April	2	Good Friday
	3			Vane 36 (3)
	4			RA (3)	Easter Cup
	5	Easter Monday		BAYATADC
	10			RC Laser
	11		PRACC Hampton Court	IOM (3)
	15		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	17			Multihulls
	18			Vane A (2)	RA TEAM AT POOLE
	24			RC Laser )
	25		PRACC FLEETWOOD	IOM CUP	Consolation Cup
	29		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
May	1			Vane 36 (4)
	2			RA (4)
	3	May day		BAYATADC
	8			RC Laser
	9			IOM (4)
	13		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	15			Multihulls
	16		PRACC COALHOUSE FORT	VANE A (3)
	22		PUGWASH AT BOURNVIlLE	RC Laser
	23		MIDLAND 36" District	IOM CUP	Mathews Cup
	27		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	29
	30		Vintage Group	6 Metre Vintage
	31	Bank hol
June	5			RC Laser
	6			IOM (5)
	10		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	12			Vane 36 (5)
	13		PRACC BIRKENHEAD WK	RA (5)	Whittaker Cup
	19			RC Laser TT Event
	20		Vane A Dist Champ	Vane A (4)
	24		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	26			Multihulls
	27		PRACC BOURNVILLE	IOM (6)
July	3			RC Laser
	4		VANE 36 Dist Champ	Club Vane 36 (6)
	8		Thursday evening R C Laser	R C Laser
	10		MYA WORKSHOP	MYA WORKSHOP	GOSPORT !!!
	11		PRACC LINCOLN	IOM (7)
	17			RC Laser
	18			RA (6)
	22		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	24			Multihulls
	25			Vane A (5)	RA TEAM AT POOLE
	31	Vane A Nats		Vane A Nats
August	1	Vane A Nats		Vane A Nats
	5		Thursday evening R C Laser	RC Laser
	6	Vane A Nats		Vane A Nats
	8		PRACC WATERMEAD	IOM (8)
	14			RC Laser
	15			RA (7)
	21			Multihulls
	22			IOM CUP	Brazier Trophy
	28	RA NATS	MANOR PARK	RC Laser
	29	RA NATS		IOM (9)
	30	RA NATS		BAYATADC
September	4			Vane 36 (7)
	5		PRACC WOODSPRING	IOM (10)
	11			RC Laser
	12			IOM CUP	Trinity Cup
	18			Multihulls
	19		PRACC GOSPORT	RA (8) - PRACC 10
	25			RC Laser
	26		PRACC POOLE	Vane A (6)
October	2			RC Laser
	3			IOM (11)
	9			Tri Services IOM
	10			Tri Services IOM
	16			Special 36" Vane
	17			RA (9)	RA TEAM WITH POOLE
	23			RC Laser
	24			Multihulls
	30			Vane 36 (8)
	31			IOM (12)
November	6			RC Laser
	7			RA (Cup)	Coronation Cup
	13			Vane 36 (9)
	14			IOM ( 13)
	20			RC Laser
	21			RA (10)
	27			Multihulls
	28			IOM Cup	Brothers Cup
December	4			R C Laser
	5			AGM
	12			IOM (14)
	18			RC Laser
	19			RA
	26
CUPS will be 12 race events, 4 then a mid morning break, 4 then a lunch break and 4 after lunch. Unless the weather is bad or a majority of skippers wish to shorten the event.

Points events will be similar if there is no afternoon series. There will be 6 races for the p.m. series after lunch.

		(BAYATADC on club days = Bring A Yacht And Try A Differenct Class)

Return to Table of Contents

MERVYN COOK PREVIEWS 2010 FREESAILING

The end of last season saw a very close finish in the Club championship for 36's, with no less than four skippers able
to claim the trophy on the last Saturday. In the event, Mike Dann narrowly beat Peter Fothergill with Max Buttimer
and Jacque Cook snapping at their heels. In the A's, Graham Wyeth had stamped his superiority earlier, albeit over a
sadly depleted fleet.
We are starting the new season of vane sailing with a comprehensive racing programme. 2010 has every possibility
of being the best yet for Gosport skippers! I know from conversations over the winter with skippers from other Clubs
that Gosport's Club racing in both A and 36 classes (and the informal vane 36 sailing every Friday) is much envied.
The possibility of racing regularly against competitive skippers in both classes at our home Club is something others
simply don't have. It offers club skippers a serious advantage, both in tuning the boat and in developing sailing skills.
It is up to all of you to make the best of it by turning out for the club racing whenever you can.
The Club is hosting district championships for both A's and 36's, and of course the magnificent MYA British Open A
Class Championship, in August. The time to start your campaign for these events is now! Make sure your boats are
set up for the season, and put the dates in your diaries so you don't miss out. In the A class Gosport skippers have
four new boats for this season, with two new boats in the 36 fleet. Brian Smith, a very fast and experienced skipper
will be joining us, and I am sure will very soon be showing us the way down the lake!
Racing vane boats is an historic and very competitive branch of our sport. It is the 'dry fly' of model yacht racing, requiring
physical stamina, precise sail setting skills, and almost psychic awareness of the shifts and foibles of the lake.
There's nothing to beat it!
Over the years Gosport skippers have won their fair share of the major championships, and recently the general standard
of Club skippers has improved to the point where all of you are more than competent to race at open meeting.
There is an extensive programme of vane racing at other Clubs, and a full programme of vane sailing organised by
the Vintage Model Yacht Group. Why not give it a try this year and travel!
The dates of the major meetings given below.
Regular club racing for 36's starts on the 6th February, and for A's rather later on the 21st of March. I look forward to
seeing you there!

National events
April 10th/11th Vane 36 National Championship, Bournville
May 1st/2nd Vane Marblehead Championship, Bournville.
May 22nd Vane 36 Midland Championship, Bournville
May 23rd Vane 36 Pugwash Trophy, Bournville.
May 30th Vane 6m, Vintage Model Yacht Group, Gosport.
June 20th Vane A, Met. and Southern District Championship, Gosport.
July 4th Vane 36 Met and Southern District Championship, Gosport.
June 31st/Aug 6th Vane A Open National Championship, Gosport.
October 23rd Vane 6M National Championship, Bournville.

PS! Vane racing is just as exciting if you are sailing as a mate as it is with your own boat. All Club members will be very welcome to give it a try at any of our meetings.
We are also looking for volunteers to help us to run the Open A Class Championship in August. This is a big event for Gosport Club, and is also the most important annual event on the MYA's calendar. All volunteers will be made very welcome.

VANE A’s
at
GOSPORT

JOHN HAYSTON RADIO A CLASS CAPTAIN

In parallel with the continuing success of GMY&BC, the Radio ‘A’ Class is thriving.
We have a full programme of races through the year and fleet numbers have been steady – notwithstanding those of us sunning ourselves in Florida in winter or racketing around Europe and the UK in summer.

For those members who don’t sail a Radio ‘A’, DO come along and try one. It’s as close to ‘big boat’ sailing you will get in radio controlled models, and the fleet racing is a joy to behold – they really are beautiful boats.
It’s a very logical next step once IOM/Lasers etc.are mastered.
We recently helped out Three Rivers Club who are trying to establish a Radio ‘A’ fleet, by putting them in touch with our members who had ‘A’s to sell. Whilst it is a shame to see boats leave the Club it has to be good to ‘spread the word’ and encourage more fleets around the country.
The point is that I contacted RA owners for boats for sale and we were amazed at how many were available.
So if any member is looking to buy an ‘A’ please contact me and I will circulate current owners.

The starting shadows of a wooden RA

RIG CHANGING
As a reminder these are the wind strengths for changing rigs as recommended by Peter Wiles (thanks again, Peter):-
No.1 > No. 2 = 12m.p.h. (19-21 k.p.h.)
OR No.1 main @ 12m.p.h. – Jib > No.2 = 15m.p.h. (24k.p.h.)
No.2 > No.3 = 18 m.p.h (29 k.p.h.).
(I find it is similar for IOM)

PRACC – Whilst not wanting to denude the GMY&BC fleet, for those who might be interested, Poole Club promote
a ‘Traveller’ series for Radio ‘A’s at various Clubs around the country.
This is a good opportunity to improve racing skills, give some variety to competition and to see other Clubs and
Skippers. Do contact me if you would like to know more – or contact Poole Club direct. You can find details via the
MYA website. This year we have 4 combined events with the Poole Club to generate further RA sailing opportunities
without having to travel too far, so please support these events and welcome our guests.

The stern was difficult to form neatly

The difficult planking bit at the bow

RA construction by the Editor

MIKE DANN on the MULTIHULL FLEET

Welcome to the second year of the multihull series. I was chuffed to bits with the support and interest shown by Club members last year and I hope that this year will be even better. The series was close last season and although I managed to win the trophy as Class Captain, I know I’ll have a real run for my money this year! Many skippers are becoming skilled multihull sailors and many boat improvements have been made. This year’s series will run with the same format as last year. Mornings will consist of short fleet races followed in the afternoon by our speed sailing - how quickly can you get up and down the lake? The ethos amongst the multihull fleet is friendly and fun. We all appreciate that we have wide, fast boats and although collisions are rare we remain very understanding.
I have decided that we will not participate in the Club’s radio trophy this year, so points won on multihull racing days will only count to the multihull trophy at the end of the year. I feel that until we significantly increase the numbers and are more established within the Club this is how we should continue.
	If you would like to give multihulls a try you will be more than welcome on the multihull days. We’re a friendly bunch and are happy for you to sail the boats and even have a go at the speed racing course! The trimaran opposite is up for sale to any Gosport club members, if interested please contact Brian Leighton and come and join in the fun! Here’s to a happy and healthy sailing year!

CUSTOMISED CLUB CLOTHING
A NEW CLUB CLOTHING PRICE LIST WILL BE PLACED ON THE NOTICE BOARD IN THE CLUB HOUSE
In future will members order their choice of apparel direct from Swift UK, they have the Club Logo etc on their computer
system. The new prices will include postage to provide delivery direct to your home address. Payment with order please.
Swift UK, CHURCHERS YARD, PORTSMOUTH ROAD, FISHERS POND,( NEAR COLDEN COMMON), HANTS. Tel 02380 600500.
Your name embroidered on item £1.75. They can now add names to caps
Other items possible (Fleeces, Gilets, Rugby Shirts etc.) SEE CATALOGUE IN CLUB HOUSE
BE SMART AND HELP ADVERTISE GOSPORT MODEL YACHT& BOAT CLUB

IOM & RA RACING for 2010 Skippers at the AGM voted to revert to the Normal Racing Rules for Club sailing, agreeing that the Supplementary Rules introduced during last year had served their purpose and had reminded everyone that fair sailing was what it was all about. All members at the AGM voted for and agreed that this was an important part of the Club’s philosophy and would do their part in encouraging and enforcing fair sailing. Skippers who wish to test their knowledge of the rules can check out the super quiz on the Met and Southern website by going direct to www.john@jlmale.freeserve.co.uk or use the link on our home page.
COLIN COOPER IOM CLASS CAPTAIN 1. I am happy to continue as Class captain for 2010 season unless anyone else would like to have a go. I will try and make as many Club one metre events as possible but because of commitments towards the end of June and July I will be absent for a couple of events. Fortunately in our Club we have numerous very experience skippers who I hope will cover for me from time to time, sorting out the courses and registration of competitors. To any new /inexperienced one metre owners please do not hesitate in contacting me or any other experienced one metre skipper for help in setting up your boat. Lets look forward, hopefully, to some great sailing in 2010. 2. Recent experience with Spektrum Transmitter.(TX) "Since I started to fly RC model aircraft and race RC Yachts I have always gone for Futaba Radios and Receivers, including progressing to the Futaba 2.4 Ghz system and have never been disappointed. However a couple of years ago I decided to change all my 35 mhz receivers in my planes to the 2.4 Ghz system . As this meant, over a period of time, replacing about 10 receivers, the cost of a receiver was very important. In comparing Futaba with Spektrum I found that Spektum had a greater choice of receivers and the cost of each unit was cheaper than Futaba. Spektrum receivers are also compatible to JR TX's and ideal for RC yachts. I bought a Spektrum DX6i from Ken Binks and installed my one metre on channel 1 and used the remaining 9 channels for aircraft. During the last two years it has given me excellent service, however, I recently noticed that when I used the roller control to enter menus and change settings it became difficult to use, failing to change menus when the roller was depressed. Ken gave me the phone number of Horizon Hobbies , the Spektrum agents, situated in Essex, and I contacted them. They gave me the option of either sending the TX back or they would send the part out to me. As Ken advised me that to replace the roller/switch only meant taking the back off the unit, removing 2 screws to release a small part of the circuit board and unplugging a lead, I ordered the parts. Although my TX was over two years old Horizon made no charge for the parts or postage and the unit arrived the following day. It took about 5 minutes to fit the new unit - excellent service. I mention this experience in case any members are considering changing to 2.4 Ghz or may in the future incur similar problems with their DX6i. "
Tony Edwards, the MYA Vice chairman, explains the importance of getting the sail trim settings correct for a IOM. Good sail trim is essential for all classes if you wish to race competitively

RC Laser Gallery

	The RC laser fleet continues to grow and the 2010 season got off to a good start with the Trojan Cup. If you wish to try sailing a Laser contact Alec Powell and he will set you up with one of the demonstration yachts. On the left, 560 going very well, with 45 to windward looking threatening. Below the Gosport RC Laser fleet and its skippers.
Visit the Gosport RC Laser web site for the latest scores and past history of the competitions. www.rclasergosport.org.uk Please show your interest and encourage all Laser skippers to support the 2013 Global Championships. 2013 is also GMY&BC’s Centenary year and information on planned events will start to appear on the Clubs other web site www.gosportmybc.org.uk and trade magazines.

Autumn 2009

In this issue
HOMELESS MARBLEHEADS
IOM and IOMICA DEVELOPMENTS
COMMITTEE BUSINESS
RC LASER
AS IT WAS
CLUB MODELS
MULTIHULL NEWS
RE CYCLED BOAT RACE
MYA AGM MOTIONS
RC LASER GLOBAL 2013
AS IT WAS (EXTRA)
BOAT HOUSE NEWS

Autumn 2009 Newsletter
Commodore's Message

Michael Kearney’s super Thames Barge was recently seen at Gosport and snapped by Ken Shell, this shows the diversity of the Gosport skippers interests. If you would like your model on the front page please send in your details. The Club is continuing to grow with 134 members at the latest count, this is really remarkable and hopefully reflects the facilities and the sailing programme that we provide. This year we have hosted the RC Laser Nationals, the Vane A and Vane 36 District Championships, the USA 36 team visit a PRACC event, the Tri-Services IOM Nationals, the 36 Nationals,

the Recycled Boat Race and the Solent University event. The Race Officers and teams we provide to run these events do the Club proud with their efficiency and enthusiasm. We are working on our 2010 programme which will contain over 100 events and will incorporate a reciprocal RA series with Poole Model Yacht Club. The calendar will not be released until the MYA programme has been finalised and dates confirmed.
We are continuing to update the facilities for our members with the addition of new security measures, hygiene improvements and new starting and PA equipment, there is on going work concerning the Club House and Boat House which Peter and Julie Lawley keep up to such a high standard.
It is round to that time of year again when we are looking for nominations for next years Committee and hope that this year we can fill all our posts, so next year we have a full Committee which will eliminate the pressure on those who are elected.
2013 is our centenary year and to celebrate this we have elected to promote the first global championships for the RC Laser Class, this should provide the opportunity for skippers to come from all over the world and details will start to appear in the press asking for potential support for this event.

Two Homeless Marblehead Yachts

Martin Clarke was about to move to Brittany when he contacted the Club concerning his father,s two M Class Yachts. Martin and his brother Adrian were delighted that they had found a good home for these yachts.
They wished that any monies raised from the sealed bid auction should go to GMB&Y Club in their fathers’ name, Gordon Clarke. Gordon and his friend Chris Hawke provided boat building timbers and fittings back in the 1970’s.
The outcome of the auction was a pleasant surprise to Martin and the Club when the sale of the boats raised a staggering £805. The Alexanders yacht on the left raising by far the greatest interest.
It is good to see these two yachts still being sailed and enjoyed by their new owners.

Max Buttimer reports on his purchase:-I think the Alexander M class is great. I have done nothing to the Hull but clean it up as I feel it has a nice vintage feel.
The rig is where I have put all of the effort. The sails that came with it were the wrong size and the foot on both was too long. The only bit I used was the jib boom as the main boom was missing. I made a new mast and main boom. The fittings I made for them I copied from photos I have of similar Alexanders.
They are painted the same colour as the booms that came with it. The sails I designed by looking at other Alexanders and Marblehead plans I have from the same period. Varnished terylene has been used for the sail material which was favoured in the early sixties.
I have sailed her a few times and have the rigging sorted out. She sails very well and the Vain seems perfectly set up, see picture of first sailing (left).

The above photograph shows work in progress on the
other Marblehead. The cabin is manufactured from yew
and mahogany with the booms made from pine. A modern
winch system is mounted completely under the deck
with only the sheeting for the jib and main being visible.
A Marblehead of this age is un-competitive so a sports
yacht has been created to prolong its useful life.

IOM BY COLIN COOPER THE CLASS CAPTAIN
As IOM class captain I am conscious of my poor attendance over the last few months for which I apologise.
Fortunately, at Gosport, we have not only a number of very competitive skippers but also skippers who have a wealth of race running/course setting experience so that usually there is always someone in attendance who can set a good course etc. To those people thank you for your efforts. It may be of value to some skippers for me to describe my recent experience when I put my IOM back on the water for the points race a few weeks ago after an absence of a couple of months. There is a point to this story so please bear with me.
I rigged my boat in what I thought was the usual way, did the usual mast checks to make sure there was no side to side bend, checked the mainsail and jib leach settings etc. and set off in my first race. Unfortunately things did not appear to go well, I got the impression that my boat was not pointing well and had poor boat speed compared to some boats around me.
I then spent the next few races fiddling to such an extent that I didn't really concentrate on the actual racing, hence the fact that on two occasions I sailed the wrong course. I was spending too much time worrying about the boat trim and had lost confidence in its performance.
Finally at the break I walked around a few of the 'faster' boats and even asked one of the skippers to show me the close hauled setting. I then found that my trim was not much different to their's. I then had no alternative but to come to the conclusion that there was nothing wrong with my boat, it was all in my mind.
Having this new mind set I then actually concentrated on the racing, the boat went faster and my results got better.
For me, there is psychological element to this sport, I have to be able to put the boat's performance out of my mind, I then know that any poor or good race results are down to me and the usual element of luck. I suppose the point of this tale is do not spend too much time fiddling with your boat. If you think it is not going well do not hesitate to have a look at the other boats and actually ask the skippers to show you their trim setting. I do not think we have reached the stage as in Formula 1 racing where competitors cover their cars to stop the other teams looking. If you do occasionally see a towel over a boat it is only to keep the sun off and that does not happen that often. Of course what my experience may also demonstrate is that I'm getting old. I had better admit this before someone points this out to me when I'm next down at the Club.

IOMICA DEVELOPMENTS
Recently there have been developments within IOMICA to apply for direct affiliation to ISAF. This application might cause numerous changes to the operation of IOM racing in the UK and throughout the world. It also has implications for the UK IOM Class Association and of course the MYA. A new full committee is up for election to the ISAF/RSD. Will you please keep an eye on the MYA ISAF/RSD IOM UK Class Association and IOMICA websites, it is essential that all members of the IOM Class Association make their votes count, ensuring that your wishes dictate how the IOM Class develops in the UK and throughout the world. Please read carefully the attached forum posting by Peter Stollery, spend the time to understand the issues and what is at stake, and when the time comes - make sure that you VOTE. The Forum address is http://www.mya-uk-forum.org.uk/e107_plugins/forum/forum_viewtopic.php?2640.last The MYA are recommending a no vote so
ITS UPTO YOU :- PLEASE USE YOUR VOTE

JOHN HAYSTON PROMOTES THE RA CLASS
We have had a successful season so far with a number of skippers sharing the lead at various times giving hope to the rest of us...We have also benefited from kinder weather than the guaranteed gales of last year.
For non RA skippers - if you would like to try sailing a Radio A to see if you would like it ( I guarantee you will) please contact me and I will arrange something.
They really are a lovely boat to sail and a logical next step after IOM ( and as well as, of course). Do come and see the racing, which I am sure will wet your appetite.

COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Rubbish . The GBC have stated that they make a collection every Friday of such rubbish, however there is concern that this does not always take place. The cttee agreed that in future any small pieces of rubbish be collected and placed in black plastic bags, on a Thursday and any large objects e.g. trolleys, bicycles etc to be placed on the hard standing at the west end of the lakes ready for collection on a Friday. The rubbish bin in the Boat House was removed because the food waste left there was rotting and unpleasant for Peter to clean out. A new Bin has been purchased and MUST only be used for dry rubbish, please note we do not have a waste collection, this task is down to the good will of Peter.
Membership:
(a) Membership status. There are 126 paid up members, 8 life members.
b) Annual Subscriptions. The cttee agreed a new resolution to be proposed at the next AGM: as from January 2010 the full annual subscription will be paid regardless to the date the member joins.
Financial State: The financial position of the Club is in a satisfactory position. It has been a quiet month for expenditure. The new arrangement for tea and coffee money is working well and the provisions required to supply the larder are now being paid for from the donations.
Ex members have all been written to for the return of security keys. This is one of the measures that the cttee are putting into place to ensure that the security of the Clubhouse is kept at a highest level. Please note new locks will be fi tted after the 2009 AGM and new keys will be issued to members who return their old ones which will no longer work.
The two new Starting Boxes have been received and are working well, typically one will be for the Laser class and the other for IOM and Radio A Classes. Please note that skippers from each group should allow time to charge these starters befor or after their use. The Club has a New high out put charger in the Boat House with numerous leads. Some of the new leads have already gone missing, if you have them by mistake please replace them. These are for all skippers to use and if the leads are taken away we are all inconvenienced.
Berthing: The cttee agreed that members are only allowed one boat space per “A” and IOM class because of the limited space available for all members. This is to be ratified at the next AGM.
Security.
(i) PL to adjust the Upper Shoot bolt on the main door as this is working loose. .
(ii) Would all members please ensure that if they are last to leave the Boat House to ensure that the doors are fully closed and locked. .
(iii) The cttee agreed that the locks to the Club and Boat house should be changed on a regular bases. This is because of the non return of keys from ex members and the loss of keys by existing members could be security issue and could possibly invalidate our insurance. PL is to look into this matter. (iv) New warning notice is being made concerning non entrance to the Club’s premises by people who are not members of the Club. The notice will be red lettering on a white background.
Flags and Flagstaff. The halyard on the flagstaff has been lengthened and we are to purchase two new flags for the club. The original MYA flag has gone missing and a new Club flag is required.
Sailing Programme:. The Vane A Nationals are already scheduled, this is a bi-annual event. Changes will also be made to ensure that skippers taking part in this event pay their dues before taking part.
Future of the MYA: We have been asked by the Met and Southern councillor for our response to the discussions taking place on the way the MYA is organised. After much discussion the Committee felt that an individual class based system would be potentially more complicated and difficult to manage. There would be a need for an increase in leaders/ volunteers to run separate organisations and the cohesion provided by the MYA would be put at risk. The MYA should remain a Multi Class Association. An association of individual members would present all sorts of problems.
We feel that the existing Association of Clubs with provision for other groups to be classified as Clubs would be preferable.
It was recognised that there may be a lack of volunteers to run the MYA and any other associations. These ideas have been submitted to the MYA and we are awaiting a reply however there are a lot of changes going on in the ISAF, RSD and IOMCA.
Sailing Programme:
(a) Beginning to plan programme for 2010. The Vane A Nationals are already scheduled, this is a biannual event. BL proposed that a lump sum be assigned to member/s who will be organising it to ensure that the event is financially successful. MC and JC agreed to take this matter on. Changes will also be made to ensure that skippers taking part in this event pay their dues before taking part. A preamble to the Vane Competition Entry form will state that entry monies must be paid before the competition and the closing date will be strictly adhered to.
(b) Vane A sailing: The take-up has been disappointing this year partly due to the loss of some Vane A sailors through ill health. It is proposed that Vane sailors be consulted on a seasonal arrangement for 2010 – Three Club sailing events, May, June and July, the Nationals in August and the Met and Southern in September.
(c) Vintage Vane Sailing. MC is to contact Anthony Warren to offer a date for Vintage Vane Sailing.
Sponsorship for the “A” Vane Nationals. MC raised the question whether there would be any objection for the Club to seek sponsorship for this event. The cttee agreed that if such sponsorship was available then it would be gratefully accepted but not from GBC.
Correspondence: MYA AGM Notice was presented by RH. There is a proposal to change the membership fees. A copy of this notice will be appended to these Minutes that will be placed in the Club House.
Council Business.
(a) Notice Boards. RH has received from Alan Gibson (GBC) a “proof” of the content that will be displayed on the notice boards around the lakes. The cttee agreed that when finished it will be of interest to visitors.
2009 AGM.
(a) Venue. PL suggested that the Scout Hall in Clayhall Road, Alverstoke could be used this year as there would be no time limit imposed for the meeting. The timing would be 1-00pm – 5:30pm. This would allow sufficient time to clear the hall.
(b) Next year’s Committee. The Commodore and Committee are willing to stand for the next year. It should be noted that the Club and cttee still require a Radio Sailing Secretary and a Publicity Officer. Will anybody interested in these posts contact the Commodore for information.
(c) New Proposals. Any new proposals should be submitted to the Secretary al least 28 days before the AGM to allow time for inclusion in and circulation with the AGM documents, Proposal Forms will be available in the Club House.
Mayor’s Charity: The three charities that the Mayor has chosen for her charities are; Motivation (for the youth of the Borough), Roof renewal for Bury House, and Dementia Awareness. The cttee agreed to donate £100-00 each for both the Dementia Awareness and Motivation appeals.
Vane sailing.
(a)MC was concerned that there were not many entries for the 36 Vane event on October 10 th. MC is to write to all 36 skippers reminding them of the event and inviting them to take part. Peter Stollery the current “Vane A” Champion is to be invited. To date there has been 14 entries that promises to ensure a good event.
MC to enquire whether a supper could be provided from “Peppers” for this event, 17 members are to attend a meal at Peppers during the competition..
(b) Vane Sailing Finish Line. A proposal by MC and PL to change the position of the finish line was agreed by the cttee. The Geometry has been checked by Chris Durant and Pete Lawley for accuracy and before the lines are changed the new positions will be discussed with the Vane Skippers.

Please make YOUR views on the Club and its FUTURE direction known to the Committee before theAGM
The MYA and your Committee are very concerned about the proposed plans of IOMICA please check them out and make sure that you understand the situation and make your vote count.

ALEC POWELL REPORTS ON LASER NATIONALS
The weekend of the 20/21 June saw GMYBC host the 2009 RC Laser National Championships. The event attracted a total of 40 skippers including 5 from overseas (2 Austrailia, 2 Austria, 1 Germany). Excellent conditions welcomed the skippers for day 1 with a reliable breeze allowing the Race Committee to set a course and leave it, thereby allowing a quick turnaround between heats. At the end of Saturday´s racing 24 heats had been sailed leaving John Tushingham as a familiar face at the top of the leader board. Gosport boats were also doing well with 3 boats in the top ten. The fleet retired to Stokes Bay Sailing Club for their evening social, and enjoyed the view of hundreds of yachts making their way to the finish line of the Round the Island Race.
Day 2 proved to be a more challenging day allround. The light and shifty wind frustrated the Race Committee in their attempts to set a decent course, whilst more of the skippers found themselves in battles of promotion and relegation between the heats. One unfortunate consequence of the challenging conditions was a straining of the goodwill between skippers, on which the success of a typical Laser event usually rests. An unnecessary protest led to a 45 minute delay in proceedings and resulted in a certain amount of bad feeling. Once racing got underway again the final 2 hours proved to be a quiet and slightly frosty affair.
At the end of racing on day 2 a total of 11 races (33 heats) had been sailed John Tushingham had managed to hold on to his lead to take the 2009 title and the Gosport trio of Chris Treagust (4th), Alex Powell (5th) and Tim Davison (8th) gave Gosport a strong showing in the top ten.
Thanks to the members of GMY&BC who gave their time and effort to help out over the two days, with special thanks to Mark Norman, Dorothy Park and Steve Frampton for proving such a slick race team, also to John Park for his hard work in the months running up to the event.
Overall results: 1st John Tushingham (Keighley); 2nd Andy Kissick (Alderney); 3rd Buzz Coleman (Coal House Fort); 4th Chris Treagust (Gosport); 5th Alex Powell (Gosport). Full results at www.rclasergosport.org.uk.

YOUR 2009 AGM IS APPROACHING FAST
The new Venue for the 2009 AGM is Gosport Scout Hall, Clay Hall Road, Gosport. It is opposite the Brodrick Hall and there is free parking near by.
This is a different venue from last year enabling us to have more time to complete our business, there are also tea making facilities that we can use during the course of the afternoon. Brian and Jacque will be there to deal with your membership and subscriptions prior to the meeting and also after. The motions from the Committee will be circulated with the Minutes and Accounts as per the Club Rules, if members have any items or motions that they wish to raise at the AGM can the Committee please have details so that these can be discussed and circulated with the AGM paperwork.
Please let the Committee have your thoughts by the end of October.
On pages 11 & 12 of this Newsletter there are details of the main MYA motion for their AGM. It is very important for you to let the Committee know how you wish the Club to vote on this issue, in summary the proposal is to have one class of membership for the MYA including the Acquaint posted to your door for £10.00, rather than £6.00 and then extra for the Acquaint.
The Committee believe that all members of the Club should support the MYA by becoming members, it is after all our governing body and deserves our support. Surely the Year Book Diary, the Handbook, the Acquaint, the insurance, the Workshops and the administration of all Classes is worth £10.00 per year.

As It Was
(situations do not change!)

These two letters are from the 1920’s and concern the situations of weed and rubbish on the Walpole Lakes.
Nothing changes here we are 70 years on with a similar problems, however today the Club has super relationships with the
Gosport Borough Council and we have never had to resort to letters like this.

AS IT WAS G J F STALKARTT & MIMOSA K465

Mr Stalkaratt at Gosport 1958 with early radio control on a Q Class theYacht Mimosa K465 won many of the early competitions.
Above on the left Mr Stalkaratt winning the Laidlaw Dickenson Trophy atPoole 1961.
On the right Charles Brazier a fellow Gosport skipper.

THE CLUB'S HALF MODELS
These half models were in the old Club House for many years and when we moved into our new building MikeThomas, our then house officer, set to work to bring them up to scratch and create a splendid display for all to see and what a super job Mike made of them. Just recently the Archivist for Camper Nicholsons, the Gosport Yacht Builders, noticed them and discovered that some of the models were of famous full size yachts as well as our model yachts. Jeremy Lines has catalogued the hulls for us in the table shown.

MIKE DANN on the MULTIHULL
These fast exciting and sometimes unstable yachts are certainly making an impact on the Gosport Lake. The speed sailing competition encompassing the length of the lake is something to behold in a blow. Mike’s enthusiasm has certainly rubbed off on other skippers and the Catamaran and Trimaran fleets are growing steadily. Several of these yachts on the start line of a fleet race is an awesome sight.

CUSTOMISED CLUB CLOTHING
A NEW CLUB CLOTHING PRICE LIST WILL BE PLACED ON THE NOTICE BOARD IN THE CLUB HOUSE
In future will members order their choice of apparel direct from Swift UK, they have the Club Logo etc on their computer system. The new prices will include postage to provide delivery direct to your home address. Payment with order please.
Swift UK, CHURCHERS YARD, PORTSMOUTH ROAD, FISHERS POND,( NEAR COLDEN COMMON), HANTS. Tel 02380 600500.
Your name embroidered on item £1.75. They can now add names to caps
Other items possible (Fleeces, Gilets, Rugby Shirts etc.) SEE CATALOGUE IN CLUB HOUSE
BE SMART AND HELP ADVERTISE GOSPORT MODEL YACHT& BOAT CLUB

	For many years the Club ran a paper boat competition for members the rule being it had to fit in a 14” square box and be 12” high. This event fell out of favour. The Club decided to open it up to local children and after consultation with Gosport Borough Council a relationship was formed with local Play Groups organised by the Council during the school summer holidays.
A new name was sought and Junk Boat Race was proposed, however this quickly led to the re-cycling concept and hence the new name The Re-Cycled Boat Race was introduced in 2003. Each year 10 or 12 locally organised play groups take on the making of the boats as one of their projects which is coordinated by the overall Play Scheme Organiser. The children range from 5 to 11 years of age and build their boats at the play group, the Mayor this year, Diana Searle visits each group and selects two or three winners, these then represent the group at the boat race, so on the day we can have up to 36 “boats” for the race. Once again the Mayor started the event, all the boats are lined up at the end of the lake, with the winning boat being first to reach the other end of the lake. Giving children and their families a lot to shout about during the race. GMY&BC give prizes for the first thee boats home and one for technology in the designs, this year two boats had ballast. Peel Common Group also entered a combined construction boat that did not sail but explored the theme of Pirates this is shown in fig 1. Fig 2 shows the starting line up. This arrangement allows the Club to be involved with the local community and to support the Council, introduce children to sailing at an early age and also encourages the use of Walpole Park.

INDIA PLATE & MEDAL PHOTOGRAPHIC COMP
John Smith’s last years winning entry really captured the feeling of vane sailing with the A Class and spinnakers flying. What can you do this year to win the solid silver INDIA MEDAL.?
Judging by the posh cameras seen around the Club House the entries this year will be superb. Please get you A4 prints to the committee. The Members at the AGM will be asked to rank the pictures on display and the winner will be announced at the end of the meeting.

Please note only the main Motion has been included, full details are on the MYA web site.
Please let your committee how you wish the club to vote at the MYA AGM

RC LASER GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIPS
JULY 13th -19th 2013 GOSPORT UK

TO CELEBRATE THE CENTENARY OF GMY&BC 1913-2013 THE FIRST GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIP OF THIS WORLD WIDE CLASS WILL TAKE PLACE AT THE FAMOUS WALPOLE LAKES GOSPORT, HAMPSHIRE, UK DURING JULY2013
REGISTRATION 13th SEEDING RACES 14th
RACING DAILY10am to 5pm MONDAY TO THURSDAY
FRIDAY19 th RACING UNTIL 12 noon
CHAMPIONSHIP DINNER (formal) and PRIZE GIVING FRIDAY7pm

CONTACT THESE WEB SITES TO REGISTER YOUR
INTEREST IN THIS EXCITING EVENT
www.gosportmybc.org.uk www.rclasergosport.org.uk
A COMPLETE ENTRY FORM WITH PROGRAMME AND RULES OF SAILING SHOULD BE AVAILABLE EARLY 2011

AS
IT
WAS
continued

EARLYRADIO CONTROL
SAILING circa 1960’s
This document and photograph are from the
photo album of Mrs Stalkartt that has been
lent to Eric Thomas one of our Members.
I would not like to carry these transmitters
very far, let alone up and down the lake all
day.

NEWS FROM THE BOAT HOUSE
The security shutters are being refurbished, one at a time, by Peter Lawley who has also painted the main doors and fitted new security bolts. New locks will be fitted to the Boat House and Club House doors after the 2009 AGM.
New keys will be exchanged for the old ones by (Aladdin aka) Brian Leighton.
The security of the tea donations has worked well and hopefully we are back on an even keel as far as the thefts were concerned, however we should all be alert and not put temptation in others way.
New engraved notices concerning access to the Club House complex are now fitted to the main door and the intentions should be supported by all skippers, especially when there are strangers about.
A new system for the handling of our domestic waste, a new Stainless Steel bin, has been exchanged for the old plastic one. PLEASE DO NOT USE IT FOR FOOD WASTE .
When more that a few of us are on site the towels for drying hands get saturated so a electronic hand dryer will soon be installed. We tried paper towels before and this was unsuccessful so we have pushed the boat out with a new hygienic no waste system. Yes, it will use electricity but you are all worth the addition expense.
Will skippers please pay attention to the taps on the washbasin in the toilet, these are regularly being left running and as we are on a meter it is costing the Club money that could be better used elsewhere.
Members are reminded that donations for the tea/coffee do not only go towards replacing these items, but also provide for washing-up liquid, soap, toilet paper and toilet cleaners.
The New Starting Systems and a Fast Charger are in the Boat House for all to use. There is now a Microphone that will plug into the starting systems and create a public address system for race briefings etc.

Spring
2009

Table of Contents

Commodore's Message	2008 Championships & Trophies	2008 Photographic Competition
A Class Report	Committee Business	Racing and OOD Duties
RC Laser Update	Free Sailing Report	As It Was
Championship Green Caps	Trophy Races and Scoring	Multihull Update
Club Clothing	IOM News	Buoy Management
Items For Sale	Your CLUB needs YOU	Hints & Tips

Autumn 2008

Table of Contents

Commodore's Message	Club Competition Results Update	Committee Changes
Photographic Competition	A G M 2008	Character Yachts
Committee Business	RC Lasers report	How we spend your money
As It Was	IOM Racing - Fleet Size	Marblehead Nationals 2008
Club Day		Vintage A at National Championships
Buoy Management	Vane A National Championships
Club House News	Boat House News

Spring 2008

Table of Contents

Commodore's Message	R A Sailing	Match Racing
Club Open Day	Committee Business	Concern for Our Lakes
How to spend your money	A Skipper's View	Computer Boffins? and Web Site Management
MYA Free Sailing League	Vane Sailing and 36" Report
As It was	Finding Zerlina	Laser Report
Vane Tutorial	News from The Boathouse

Autumn 2007

Table of Contents

Commodore's Message	Tribute to Frank Pankhurst	Committee Business
Getting to the AGM	Facts & Figures concerning your lakes	Money Money Money!!!
36" Vane racing returns to Gosport		30 Radio A Class yachts at the PRACC
First UK Footy Championships a Success	Laser Review by David Edwards	MYA Workshop at Gosport - 40 skippers attend
Yachting Monthly Cup WIN	Publicity Officer's comments

Spring & Summer 2007

Table of contents

Commodore's Message	Committee Business	Radio Sailing Results
Inside the Boathouse	Revised A Class Thursdays	As It Was
	Members' Models	Scale section revival?
RC Lasers	Footy Championships	A Class reports
Well Done Graham!	AGM Venue	Child safety
	Candid Camera!!!

Autumn 2006

Table of contents

Commodore's Message	Radio Sailing & Racing	Gosport As It was	Committee Business
Meet Mike Dann your Multihull Class Captain	Crystal Tip	British A Class Open Championships	Laser Review by Alec Powell
RA News from John Hayston		Training Sessions	Rocky Appeal Auction
Financial Matters (Oh yes it does!!)	2006 A G M	Skippers thoughts by Colin Cooper	2006 Re-Cycled Boat race
Brian Leighton reports from Chichester	Do YOU fancy a challenge?

Autumn 2009 Newsletter

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE

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TWO HOMELESS MARBLEHEAD YACHTS

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AS IT WAS ! Situations do not change??

AS IT WAS G J F STALKARTT & MIMOSA K465

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YACHTS FOR SALE

RA Sweet
RA Sweet
RA Sweet
RA Argo
RA (Ray Baker)
RA Arabesque
IOM
IOM
Multi Hull
Vane 36”

John Hayston
Derek Moorland
Mervyn Cook
Graham Wyeth
Arnie Peace
Robert Hobbs
Nigel Taylor
Graham Wyeth
Brian Leighton
Mervyn Cook

01239 663928

02392 462165
02380 465858
02392 386986
02380 255896
07762382952
02380 465858
01243 375522
02392 462165

MYA AGM MOTION

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Spring 2009 Newsletter

In this issue
Commodores Report
2008 Championship Results
2008 Photo Competition
A Class Report
Committee Business
Racing & OOD Duties
RC Laser Update
Free Sailing Report
As It was
Green Caps
2009 Event scoring
Multihull Report
Club Clothing
IOM News
Buoy Management
Items For Sale
Your Club Needs YOU
Hints & Tips

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE

Welcome to the first Newsletter for 2009, it is very good to have articles from our Class Captains keeping us up-to-date. You will see that we are proudly continuing to fly the flag, making local residents aware that we are open for business.
Visitors to the Club House will notice four new shields on the right hand wall, these are the trophies from the Tri-Services Radio Sailing Club who have now adopted Gosport as their home base.
This year we will be adding to our local profile by supporting the Council with the Gosport Great Day Out on 14th June and also the 50th Anniversary of Gosport’s twinning with Royan on 23rd May.
These are normal sailing days but we can expect visitors to come along and see what a superb model yachting facility Gosport provides.
The Club operates for the members and you should address any points you wish to raise with either a Class Captain or a member of the Committee, these will then be raised at the next meeting.
Our condolences go to the families of two of our skippers Tony Davis and Mike Mizzen who have recently died.

Spring 2009 P. 1

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2008 CHAMPIONS and Trophy Allocation for 2009

Class	EVENT	WINNER	TROPHY	ALLOCATION FOR 2009
RA	Easter Cup	Peter Fothergill	Easter Cup	RA 2nd August
RA	Club series first	Peter Fothergill	McGilloway Cup	RA Club series
RA	Coronation Cup	Mike Nichols	Coronation Cup	RA 8th November
RA	Overall Champs 3rd	Peter Fothergill	Creston Cup	RA 3rd
RA	Overall Champs 2nd	Brian Leighton	MacPherson Cup	RA 2nd
RA	Overall Champs 1st	Mike Nichols	Rodney Cup	RA Overall
IOM	Q Cup	Mike Tattersall	Q Cup	IOM 15th March
IOM	Matthews Cup	Stan Nutchey	Mathews Cup	IOM 24th May
IOM	PM Series 1st	Colin Cooper	Clubman Trophy	IOM PM Series
IOM	AM Series 1st	Colin Cooper	Club Championship	IOM AM Series
IOM	Brazier Trophy		Brazier Trophy	IOM 16th August
IOM	Overall Champs 3rd	Stan Nutchey	March Hare Cup	IOM 29th March
IOM	Overall Champs 2nd	Mike Tattersall	Consolation Cup	IOM 26th April
IOM	Overall Champs 1st	Colin Cooper	JubileeCup	IOM Overall
IOM	Curry Mug		Curry Mug	IOM 15th February
IOM	Trinity Cup		Trinity Cup	IOM 13 th September
IOM	Brothers Cup		Brothers Trophy	IOM 15th November
RCL	Trojan Cup	Alec Powell	Trojan Cup	RCL 31st January
RCL	Winter Series 1st	Tim Davison	Munster Cup	RCL Winter Series 1st
RCL	Summer Series 1st	Alec Powell	Sally Irvine Cup	RCL Summer Series 1st
RCL	Spring Series 1st	Dennis Bookham	Rowe Bowl	RCL Spring Series 1st
RCL	Thursday Evening Series 1st	David Edwards	Corke Trophy	RCL Thursday Evening Series 1st
RCL	Autumn Series 1st	Chris Moore	Electric Cup	RCL Autumn Series 1st
RCL	Overall RC Lasers Champ 3rd	Chris Moore	Francis Cup	RCL Overall RC Lasers Champ 3rd
RCL	Overall RC Lasers Champ 2nd	Dennis Bookham	Sandford Cup	RCL Overall RC Lasers Champ 2nd
RCL	Overall RC Lasers Champ 1st	Alec Powell	Tamplin Cup	RCL Overall RC Lasers Champ 1st
VA	Club Champs	Graham Wyeth	Nyria Trophy	VA Club Champs
36	Club Champs	Jacque Cook	Bilmor Cup	36” Club Champs
Vane	Vane Championship	Graham Wyeth	Six-a-Side Cup	Vane Championship
MH	Club Champion		Multihull Cup	MH Club Champion
MH	Speed Event		Multihull Speed Trophy	MH Fastest Skipper
All	Most Improved Skipper	Chris Moore	Taylor Trophy	Most Improved Skipper
Overall	Club RC Champion	Colin Cooper	Yachtmaster	Cup Club RC Champion
Overall	Services to Club	Arnie Peace	Astrape Cup	Services to Club
All	Photograph Competition	John Smith	India Plate & Medal	Photograph Competition

Spring 2009 P. 2

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GMY&BC PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITON
The India Plate and Medal for 2008 was won by John Smith with the picture below.

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For super pictures of yachts go to this link for Malcolm Donald’s phenomenal web site www.malcomdonald.com

JOHN HAYSTON PROMOTES THE RA CLASS

2008 was a pretty successful year for the Radio As, although race days seemed almost exclusively to herald gale force winds and torrential
rain. Everyone is to be congratulated on some good competitive racing – or those still on the water at the end of each meeting that is.
The 1st Championship meeting on 8th. February was very light winds by contrast, and we hope for more equable conditions this year.
That day saw a good fleet out, despite absences of several skippers through surgery/holiday etc. - looking forward to seeing recovered hospital cases on the water as soon as possible.
Several new boats have arrived or are on the way so we can expect some high standard and close racing this year.
For those who HAVE NOT succumbed to the lure of the delightful Radio As, do come and see what you are missing
on a Championship Sunday or better still also pop down on the previous Thursday when people are often testing their
As and may be able let you have a go.

Picture by Mike Clifton

Spring 2009 P. 3

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COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Rubbish . The cttee welcomed Arnie Peace to the meeting to discuss with the cttee the problem concerning the accumulation of rubbish around the lakes and of its disposal. The GBC have stated that they make a collection every Friday of such rubbish. However there is concern that this does not always take place. The owner of “Pepper’s” restaurant has complained to the GBC of this problem and he has a weekly dialogue with the council concerning this matter. The cttee agreed that in future any small pieces of rubbish be collected and placed in black plastic bags and any large objects e.g. trolleys, bicycles etc to be placed on the hard standing at the west end of the lakes ready for collection on a Friday. These collections of rubbish would take place on Thursday to reduce the problem of local youths throwing the
rubbish collected back into the lakes. This will be monitored to assess the success of the exercise. The cttee thanked Arnie for his help in this matter. The cttee also agreed that there would further sea water flushes into the lakes to ensure that the growth of fresh water weed is kept to a minimum.
Membership. There are 111 paid up members, 8 life members, plus 2 new members. 121 In total
Financial State: (a) The financial position of the Club is in a satisfactory position. All the utility bills have been paid. The Treasurer is waiting for the cashing of a cheque that was sent to the MYA last year. The cttee agreed to the proposal that BL writes to the MYA Treasurer David Rose explaining that to ensure that the GMY&BC accounts can be kept up to date cheques from the Club should be cashed ASAP and if not within a call off period then the Club will have no alternative than to stop the cheque.
(b) Valuation of Trophies. Picketts and Purser have completed the valuation and a full copy of the pictures and values is held by the Treasurer and the Secretary.
(c) Rates. A letter has been sent to the GBC applying for the annual rate discretion.
(d )Insurance. The annual insurance has been paid. There maybe a small increase to cover extra trophy protection.
Membership Cards. Discussion took place concerning the possible introduction of plastic coated membership cards to save money. There are drawbacks and the cttee decided that the idea of plastic coated cards would not be implemented.
Gosport Big Day Out. The cttee agreed that the Club would participate in this event as we are so near the Discovery Centre and are racing RA’s.
Gosport Town Twinning Event. The cttee agreed that the Club would take part in the event and would welcome any visitor to the Club during this celebration. The RC Laser’s are sailing on the Saturday morning and together with other Club members could have yachts sailing in the afternoon a BAYATADC day?
Berthing. The cttee have had a request that a paid berth that is not being used by the allotted skipper be transferred temporary to a skipper who at this time is suffering ill health and finds it difficult to handle the “A” boat from his home to the club.
Laser Printer. Further discussion took place concerning the rising cost of printing Club material and the best option in buying a laser printer. After discussion comparing the types of Laser printers available and the cost of printing that the Club now experiences it was agreed that BL will proceed and buy a Dell 1320CN laser printer plus the necessary toner for the Club. The committee are seeking a volunteer for Club’s printing duties
Archive. An 8mm film and scrapbooks of events at the Club before the war have been lent to MC. It was agreed that the Club would fund transferring the film to DVD and copying items from the scrapbooks. DVD now completed and copies are to be made available at cost to members. Members should be aware that because of the available material/technology the reproduction is not in High Definition and should view the DVD before purchasing.

Spring 2009 P. 4

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Sailing Programme. The question of who is to organise the sailing programme for next year was raised and it was agreed that we will try to retain the yearly Club calendar with only a few changes to suit the MYA programme and the shift that is necessary due to Easter. Robert is the Club contact for open events and John Smith has control of the web site for any additional questions and information.

Sunday Racing and Officer Of Day/ Officials
Below are some comments received concerning the slight problems we had on one recent Sunday.

For reasons way beyond my comprehension, we were presented with a bit of a problem doing the results because we only started taking one skipper off to Race Officer part way through last Sunday's racing.
We conclude that unless the fleet is very small, the best solution is to have one skipper off to be RO for each race and we propose to do that in future - has anyone any comments?.

I agree wholeheartedly.
1) I have maintained for some years now that we should do as all Sailing Clubs do and have every Club member doing at least one RO duty for Club races during the season on a specified date basis, and if that person is unwilling or unable to do it they either find a substitute, or they suffer some sort of 'penalty' (in large Clubs it is an extra fee, but that is over the top for us, so we would need to find some other less painful but nevertheless meaningful measure - I can't think what at present). The argument that this would put off newcomers can I am confident be resolved - after all we are not ogres, and I am sure that we have sufficient experienced and very willing members well able to hold hands and shield an inexperienced RO from flak.
2) Because we did as we did on last Sunday I made a real mess of the paintwork on my brand new boat trying to record the scores - all my fault, but nevertheless illustrates the difficulty.
For what its worth, I see no problem with the system of one or more skippers off each race. As long as we stick to the required number of races on the day we can decide how many skippers stay off each race when we see how many have turned up.

I have to disagree with the above idea of pre-arranging Race Officers to do the whole day. It's easier said than done. If we happen to sail two or three classes of boat that could mean two or three R.O. days per season. Some of us who work or have family commitments at week ends in the summer may not know from one week to the next, whether we can turn up the following week end. That could mean trying to find a substitute at very short notice.
If we fail and have to 'pay a penalty' it still does not solve the problem, we would have no R.O and so would have to revert to taking one or more skippers off each race.

There could be a system where a member does one OOD each year regardless of classes sailed? A record could be kept showing when they had done their stint????

Names were provided but I thought it was easier to remove them.

The System of taking 1, 2 or more skippers off to handle the starting, observing and recording of the race results will continue because it has proved very successful over the last few years, especially since Mike Tattersall has been looking after the results. We experienced one problem on one Sunday and this was because not all skippers were off for one race during the event and this distorted the results.
The System works and as long as all skippers are off at some time during the event there will not be a problem. If towards the end of an event we are running out of time we can take more skippers off to suit the number of races remaining.
The System has the added advantage of introducing all skippers to race organisation procedures. The Observing is particularly important, it helps one to become familiar with the rules and it removes any debate from the offending skippers.
Please remember The OOD is always right even when they are wrong.

Spring 2009 P. 5

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ALEC POWELL with the latest RC LASER GOSSIP

RC Laser Nationals 2009
On the weekend of June 20th/21st GMBYC will host the RC Laser National Championships for the second time. The first occasion was back in 2003 when the event was run from the old wooden Clubhouse and the sailing took place on the small lake due to problems with the main pond. Both the Club and the Laser Class have come a long way since that event; this time around we are expecting about 60 skippers to take part, which will be double the number of boats that took to the water 6 years ago. As the Class has also grown internationally we expect a handful of entries from overseas, the first of which has already been received from Australia.
Preparations for the event are well underway and with such superb facilities now at its disposal, the RC Laser Fleet is hoping to host a Championship which will add to the standing of the Club both at home and abroad.

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FREE SAILING with MERVYN COOK

The coming season for vane sailors should be an exciting one, with challenges for all. We have no less than three championship events at the Club during 2009. District championships for both A's and 36's, and the two-day 36 national championship in October.
We are also hosting one leg of the UK/USA 36 challenge trophy.
With class racing for both A's and 36's every month, there is plenty of opportunity to get on the water and practice.
Regular sailing on our own home waters, should give us some advantage over the opposition!
A class members have no less than three new boats in build.
In the 36 class there are five, from four different designers. With vane gears becoming more freely available, and there is a real buzz about this new fleet. Further, the Gosport fleet is dispelling the perhaps rather 'comfortable' image of the 36.

Mike Dann’s Superb new 36”vane yacht. The quality of the moulding and fittings, plus some novel ideas is a
joy to behold.
Just compare the hull shape with the wooden 1950’s 36” Lady Betty on the left.

Our boats are proving that they can race in any wind-strength, and you definitely need to sprint to keep up when spinnakers are set in a breeze. The boats are becoming exciting and ultra-modern, and the freedom to experiment which the very simply framed rules
allow, is making for a fascinating little boat.
To help skippers who may be new to vane sailing, the 36's are sailing every Friday morning. This is an informal morning on the water, giving an opportunity to try out new ideas and settings against other boats. Informal races are held, with the usual rules of vane racing set aside to allow several boats to start together. You can see some footage of the fun on 'Malcolm Donald's Sailing Movies' website, go to Model Yachting, and then 'Freesailing 2009'.
The remarkable thing about vane sailing is that there is as much challenge for the crew, (known as a mate) as for the skipper. Once you are separated from your skipper by the width of the lake, there is no option but to make your own decision about retrimming. And skippers have no option but to trust their crew. There is a shortage of crews in both fleets; why not come and try your hand at vane sailing one day. Broad smiles at the end of the day are guaranteed!!

Spring 2009 P. 6

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AS IT WAS !

Ronnie Jurd’s A Class Seri
Sail No K 466

Below Captain G J Lazell with
A Class Defiance Sail No 9
Gosport 1926

CHAMPIONSHIP GREEN CAPS

The photo on the left shows Colin Cooper receiving his Green Caps for the IOM Club Championship and for the overall Club Radio Championship. Well done Colin.
There have been comments concerning the need to continue the awarding of these Green Caps, they are seldom seen at the Lake during the year and although initially thought a good idea perhaps they have run their
course.
Let the Committee have your thoughts on this matter.
The Club will award a greater number of cups for individual events during this racing year, rather than first, second and third for the overall results. We hope that this will encourage more skippers to win one of our magnificent trophies.

Spring 2009 P. 7

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MIKE TATTERSALL TROPHY RACES and SCORING

RC Laser Racing
RC Laser Racing will be held on 24 Saturdays and 9 Thursday evenings. Saturday racing will be divided into 4 Series (Winter (6), Spring (6), Summer (6) and Autumn (6) rounds). Additionally the Winter Championship for the Trojan Cup will be raced on Saturday 31st January.
For RC Laser trophies all races in each series are aggregated for the final results without regard to the individual rounds and then discards are identified. The RC Laser programme, scoring system and results may be found at the RC Laser page of the Club Website.
However for the Club Radio Championship each round of Saturday racing will count the 8 races with 3 discards. The winner will score 20 (or number of competitors which ever is the greater) points with each subsequent place scoring one point less. Each round of Thursday racing will consist of 6 races with 2 discards. The winner will score 10 or (number of competitors which ever is the greater) points with each subsequent place scoring one point less.
IOM Racing
IOM Racing will be held on 9 Sundays with AM and PM Series run separately.
Each Round of AM racing will consist of 10 races (weather permitting) allowing for 2 discards. The winner will score 20 (or number of competitors which ever is the greater) points with each subsequent place scoring one point less towards the IOM AM Series. Each competitor’s best 7 rounds will be counted to determine the overall Series positions.
Each Round of PM racing will consist of 6 races (weather permitting) allowing for 1 discard. The winner will score 10 or (number of competitors which ever is the greater) points with each subsequent place scoring one point less towards the IOM PM Series. Each competitor’s best 7 rounds will be counted to determine the overall Series positions.
IOM Cup Competitions will be held on 15th February, 15th March, 29th March, 26th April, 24th May, 16th August, 13th September and 15th November. These competitions will consist of 12 races (weather permitting) with no race starting after 1400. In addition points will be awarded as in the IOM AM Series towards the IOM Club Championship. The IOM Club Championship will consist of the 26 IOM competitions (9 AM & PM and 8 Cup).
All events will count towards the final overall positions.
Radio A Racing
Radio A Racing will be held on 10 Sundays.
Each Round of racing will consist of 12 races (weather permitting) with no race starting after 1400. The winner will score 20 (or number of competitors which ever is the greater) points with each subsequent place scoring one point less towards the RA Series. Each competitor’s best 7 rounds will be counted to determine the overall Series positions. The racing on 20th September will be combined with the Gosport Round of the PRACC but for the purposes of the RA Series GMYBC Members will be scored against each other to determine the award of Series points.
RA Cup Competitions will be held on 2nd August and 8th November. These competitions will consist of 12 races (weather permitting) with no race starting after 1400. In addition points will be awarded as in the RA Series towards the RA Club Championship. The RA Club Championship will consist of the 12 RA competitions (10 Series and 2 Cup). All events will count towards the final overall positions.
The Club Radio Championship
The Championship will consist of the 72 Radio Sailing Events (34 Laser, 26 IOM and 12 RA (see above).
All events will count towards the final overall positions.
IOM and RA Results
The results of IOM and RA racing may be found at the results page of the Club Website.
URL http://gosportmybc.org.uk
They are also available on the Radio Sailing Results page of Mike Tattersall’s Website.
URL http://homepage.ntlworld.com/michael.tattersall2/Site%202/radiosailing.html

Spring 2009 P. 8

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MIKE DANN on the 2009 MULTIHULL SERIES

Welcome to 2009, the year of the Multihulls at Gosport!!
I’m thrilled with our brand new series running this season for our Class and at the expanding fleet of boats we have on the water. Interest is growing and skippers from other Classes have been great in ‘having a go’ and trying something different. Our racing will take on a very different format to other Classes. We run short fleet races in a traditional
format, then open the stopwatches for an hour of speed racing.
Who will get their Multihull running the fastest this year?

At the end of the day we start the ‘Borrow a Boat’ race, an opportunity for skippers to swap boats and try their hand with an unfamiliar craft!
Although we are competitive our main emphasis is on having fun, sharing hints and tips and above all enjoying our sailing. We have a mixture of catamarans and trimarans all to the Mini 40 rules ready for the series, however on our
Open Days we have seen a couple of other multihulls
venturing onto the water.
If you fancy having a go this year the dates are in the calendar, so feel free to come along and join in.

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CUSTOMISED CLUB CLOTHING
A NEW CLUB CLOTHING PRICE LIST WILL BE PLACED ON THE NOTICE BOARD IN THE CLUB HOUSE
In future will members order their choice of apparel direct from Swift UK, they have the Club Logo etc on their computer
system. The new prices will include postage to provide delivery direct to your home address. Payment with order please.
Swift UK, CHURCHERS YARD, PORTSMOUTH ROAD, FISHERS POND,( NEAR COLDEN COMMON), HANTS. Tel 02380 600500.
Your name embroidered on item £1.75. They can now add names to caps
Other items possible (Fleeces, Gilets, Rugby Shirts etc.) SEE CATALOGUE IN CLUB HOUSE
BE SMART AND HELP ADVERTISE GOSPORT MODEL YACHT& BOAT CLUB

Spring 2009 P. 9

STAN NUTCHEY REVIEWS IOM RACING for 2009

The start of this years racing saw 14 hardy types braving arctic conditions in the first round of the IOM series. Its very encouraging to see such enthusiasm at the start of 2009. The subsequent rounds have also been well supported with 20+ competitors. New members have been prominent in the races. With fleets of 20 boats on the water it can be quite taxing and so it has been particularly pleasing to see racing carried out with good spirit which helps to increase the enjoyment for all. Lets keep it up!
With this level of entries we are probably nearing the limit using the present system of 10 races with 2 or 3 observers.
A 2 fleet system is inclined to be cumbersome so I think we perhaps ought to try say 12 races with a quarter of the competitors off at one time if numbers reach 24 to 28. This gives 9 scoring races each. All comments and suggestions on this will be welcome.
Finally two reminders , firstly the next IOM race on 26th April is a cup race and also be aware that keen sailors can use the small lake when the large lake is being used for other classes. I understand that there are 5 buoys available in the small lake so setting a good course is easy.
Page 2 has the full listing of 2009 cup events.

Ken Shell’s Action picture of Brian Leighton’s Lintel leading my Italiko (ed.)

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BUOY MANAGEMENT AT THE LAKES

One of the 8 new Buoys on the large lake.

The 5 buoys on the small lake for sailing every Sunday

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YACHTS FOR SALE
The following were for sale when this issue was compiled, please contact those below if you require further information
Martin Raishbrooke IOM Gadget Complete very good condition
Doug Genders Vane A Fibre Glass very good condition
Vane A Beautiful Wooden Yacht Built by John Gale
Graham Wyeth IOM
Derek Morland RA Sweet Recently refurbished and ready to win

John Smith, the web site manager, has added “A FOR SALE” section/page(s) to the website. Members wishing
to use this new service can send him details to include description, price, contact details and pictures if
they are available. A picture is worth a thousand words or could it just add pounds to the price.
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GMY&BC NEEDS THE HELP OF THE MEMBERSHIP

With the Club activities developing and new members joining it is important to
ensure that we maintain our enthusiasm and also involve the new skippers
with some of our traditional and new tasks that help provide the high standard
of services we all enjoy.
First off we have four major open free sailing events at Gosport this year and
our usual team will be quite stretched. We would be very grateful for any offers
of assistance from any of the other fleets. In particular we need volunteers
for starters, scorers and line-judges. If you haven't had experience of
these roles before, training can be given, and a fun day is guaranteed!
Please talk with the free sailing class captain, Mervyn Cook, if you are in a position to help.

Secondly we need one or two volunteers to manage the racing buoys, this involves removing and repositioning the buoys when major Vane events are taking place. To look after the maintenance of the buoys and their mooring systems and provide course changes at national events. You must be fully comfortable in a dingy and at all times wear a buoyancy aid when on the lakes.
Thirdly the existing printer for the Club computer is becoming tired and we will be purchasing a laser colour printer, this printer will enable us to print this Newsletter, yearly Racing Schedule and the AGM correspondence. This will involve considerable time in printing and compiling we are therefore looking for a volunteer to be responsible for the Club printing.
Fourthly as you are all aware we started 2009 without a Sailing Secretary, already it is proving difficult despite the best efforts of Mike Tattersall and the Class Captains. We really need a Sailing Secretary to keep an eye on the racing and the programme, especially for next year and to keep the Committee up-to-date on aspects of the sailing.

With racing this competitive its no wonder we have such a fine IOM fleet and the need for OOD’S on Sunday events.
Photo’s above by Joyce’s toy boy Ken Shell.

Solent University 1st year students from the Marine Architects
Course sailing their projects at Gosport in 2008.

Stephen Botes was the winner of the sailing.

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GMY&BC
Web sites
www.gosportmybc.org. uk
www.rcl aser gosp ort.org.uk

54 Guildford Drive
Chandlers Ford
Hants
SO 53 3PT
Email:roberto.hobbs@virgin.net

Painting and varnishing tip from Ken Shell.
I was having problems with getting a fine gloss finish with varnish
on wooden decks and Ken advised putting enough varnish for one coat in a small jar or tin and standing it in warm water.
Chef’s call this a Bain-Marie. This reduces the viscosity and allows
the varnish to be applied thinly and it flows to a beautiful finish.
I have christened this method of applying varnish “SHELL
LACK”. This procedure has also been successfully used with
enamel paint.
Well done KEN thanks for the tip.

GOSPORT IS THE
TRADITIONAL
HOME OF THE
“A” CLASS

Also a safe haven for rclaser, IOM,
36”, Marblehead, Multi hull,
Scale Boats and Vintage Yachts

NEWS FROM THE BOAT HOUSE

Please can skippers taking advantage of the Tea & Coffee in the Club House remember to also contribute
to the costs, lately the kitty tin is looking very slim.

Clubhouse/Boathouse:
(a) New Buoys: All new buoys are now in place.
(b) First Aid Box. PL is to update the first aid box to ensure the contents are within the correct date. Contents
up dated.
(c) Fire extinguishers. The existing extinguishers are to be fased out for current dry dust units. One is to be
placed in the Club house as well as the Boat House. New extinguishers now in place.
(d) Lighting in the boat house. PL is to adjust the height of the lighting units over the test tank etc. This is
to ensure that there is sufficient height that boats do not hit these units when being moved in and out of the measuring tank and the boat house. The height of the lights has now been adjusted.
(e) Call Out List. The police are to be informed of the change in House Officer for call out purposes. The
police have been contacted and the list has been changed to reflect the changes i.e. Pete Lawley, John Storey and Gary Cooper.
(f) Shutters. The cttee felt at this time the problem is not that serious to renew all the shutters but agreed that
some remedial work needs to be carried out. PL explained to the cttee the work that he recommends that should be carried out on the shutters. This will mean that a temporary steel shutter will be made by PL and inserted in place of the shutter that is going to be repainted etc. The method of dismantling is known and the important matter is that the security of the Club is not put at risk. This work will be carried out by PL and any willing volunteers that come forward.
The work will commence when the weather is warmer and the days longer. PL explained that there are special coatings, paints and items required for this job and he knows were to obtain these items.
(g) Maintenance. The House Officer has carried out work on the following items; the wheelbarrow, foot
pump, refurbished the rakes and renewed the handles and destroyed some wood worm infested items.

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Autumn 2008 Newsletter

Inside this
issue:

COMPETITION RESULTS

PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

LASER NEWS

AS IT WAS

IOM PROPOSALS

MARBLEHEAD NATS

CLUB DAY

CLUB CLOTHING

BUOY MANAGEMENT

YACHTS FOR SALE

VANE “A” NATS REPORT

NEWS FROM THE BOAT HOUSE

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE
Welcome to the second issue of this years newsletter, one wonders where the time goes. Although we have enjoyed many Gosport sunny days and have faired better than most of the country the rain has effected one or two of our events, worst of all Vane A Nationals /Cowes week which is normally a scorcher.
The Laser fleet had better watch out next year because Penny Clark, a member of Team GB at the Olympics’ in China now has her very own rclaser. Many congratulations to Penny from all the Club members and what another splendid first for GMY&BC, a skipper in the Olympic Sailing Team. (more news on page 6)
The Club sailing programme, 90 events, has kept most skippers busy with their chosen class. The programme for next year is in draft form and under discussion with the Committee, should you have any thoughts on next years programme please let John Smith, Sailing Secretary, know as soon as possible.
Upwards of 30 skippers have attended the organised talks this year all thoroughly enjoying Mike Tattersall on Match Racing, Bill Green on Vane Sailing and its Rules and the most recent one Peter Wiles on Yacht Design and Sailing. Judging by the extremely favourable feed-back we will try to arrange further events during the coming year.
The recycled boat race involving Play Schemes and Gosport Council was once again a great success, the boat designs obviously benefiting from the crib sheets supplied by the Club. The Mayor and Mayoress Derek and Pat Kimber supported this event and presented the prizes.
Solent University held its annual, first year design course, sail off as usual. Tthe number of yachts competing being more than ever with a considerable improvement in their sea worthiness, with only one yacht lost. This event will feature in the December issue of Model Boats Magazine.
The Committee runs the Club on your behalf and recently there have been instances when members have chosen to go against the wishes of your Committee by trying to establish their short term desires over the continuing interests of the silent majority. The Committee’s decisions had caused some dissatisfaction with some members which has been successfully resolved.
Your Committee is dedicated to supporting all aspects of radio, vane and yacht sailing alike.
Despite strong resistance from Brian, our Treasurer, the Committee is continuing to spend your money on the repair of our trophies, new buoys, additional seating around the Lake and the improvement of storage in the Boat House.
Issues have been raised over the future of the A Class Nationals at Fleetwood and the possibility of Gosport taking it over. The Committee referred this to the MYA who have decided to continue the bi-annual event with Fleetwood until its centenary in 2022.
Our Club membership is continuing to grow with at the moment 134 members, which I am sure is down to the friendly welcome we give our visitors, the excellent facilities and the magnificent racing programme that runs throughout the year, the old adage that success breeds success still holds true.
I would like all members to really think about how we can best celebrate our Centenary in 2013.
Tight sheets and full sails Robert.

CLUB COMPETITION RESULTS
These are the results available at the 6th October and are not the final scores for events during 2008.
The results are from Alec Powell, Mervyn Cook and Mike Tattersall. Many thanks to all of you for your
diligent and hard work in collating the efforts of our skippers.

Class	First	Second	Third	Fourth	Fifth
Vane A	Graham Wyeth 57.5	Shaun Wyeth 45.5	Anthony Warren 41.5	Mervyn and Peter 39	Derek Kitchener 25
Vane 36	Jacque Cook 45	Mervyn Cook 32	Martin Dovey 29	Shaun Wyeth 27	Graham Wyeth 25
IOM a.m.	Colin Cooper 137	Nigel Brown 129	Mike Nichols 119	Mike Tattersall 116	Stan Nutchey 115
IOM p.m.	Colin Cooper 72	Mike Tattersall 64	Stan Nutchey 61	Nigel Brown 57	Mike Nichols 53
IOM Club	Mike Tattersall 247	Colin Cooper 246	Stan Nutchey 210	Nigel Brown 198	Mike Nichols 182
RA Series	Mike Nichols 134	Peter Fothergill 116	Colin Cooper 115	Brian Leighton 115	John Smith 96
RA Club	Mike Nichols 173	Brian Leighton 164	Peter Fothergill 155	Colin Cooper 133	John Smith 130
Club Radio Championship	Colin Cooper 379	Denis Bookham 357	Mike Nichols 354	Mike Tattersall 352	Brian Leighton 307
Laser Thursday Evenings	David Edwards	Russell Clark	Chris Moore
Laser Summer Series	Denis Bookham	Peter Marshall	David Edwards

COMMITTEE CHANGES UNDER WAY
JOHN SMITH, our Sailing Secretary does not wish to stand for re election next year, although he will continue with the web site This is a big blow to the Club because of John’s experience in management and computers also he was one of the early committee members who were paramount in getting the Club on its feet and as we know it to day.
MIKE THOMAS, our House Officer has also decided to stand down which is another big blow because Mike has designed and made all the bespoke fittings in the Club and Boat House, kept the facility clean and tidy as well as managing all the domestic duties and providing the consumables that members all too easily take for granted.
We are looking for volunteers to fill these positions so please see who you can get, no broken arms please, to agree to have their name on the nomination forms.
Some of John’s duties could be shared with the Class Captains and Mike’s job could be divided and undertaken by 3 or 4 of you, however it would be desirable if the lead person lived in or near to Gosport to deal with the local issues that arise just due to us having the Club House.

GMY&BC PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITON

Do not forget to send in your pictures for the first year of this competition. The “INDIA TROPHY” is a splendid silver salver, presented by Dr Abhay More. This is your chance to have the first name engraved on the display plinth, so get snapping and send in your sailing related photo to the Committee.

YOUR AGM SUNDAY 7th DECEMBER
The 2008 AGM will soon be with us, so if you have any items for discussion or submission please let the Committee have them ASAP so they can be prepared for the notification documents which must be issued two weeks before the AGM. The closing for the committee’s action is the next meeting on the 2nd November 2008. The AGM will be held in the Alverstoke Church Hall, the same venue as last year, at 2.00 pm
The MYA AGM is on the 29th November 2008 and if we as a Club have any issues we wish to raise please let the Committee know. There are two Motions from the MYA (a) To remove the Appeals Panel and direct such appeals to the RYA. and (b) To update the Executive and Non Executive list of the MYA Officers. Unless the GMY&BC Committee hear otherwise we will support these motions.
In way of advance information the Committee will be submitting proposals on Membership, Members Behaviour, Subscriptions and possibly the question of all members joining the MYA after all it is our National body.

36” YACHT of CHARACTER?

Two new 36” yachts seen at the lakes recently.
On the left Bruce Prole’s Lady Betty

On the right is my Lady Betty called Lady Eva, well one has to get Brownie points where one can.

Both of these 1950’s designs were finished this year and both sailed very well, we must get them on the water together next time.

COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Membership State:   134 members, this includes 7 life members.
The question was raised about the storage of members’ names, addresses and phone numbers in the minutes file in the Clubhouse. This is for contact purposes in the case of a medical or other emergency. It was felt to be sufficiently secure based in the Club room which is accessible only when key holders are on site.
Financial State: BL reported detailing the receipts and payments since the last meeting and that we are in a healthy financial state but there has been greater expense than in the previous year. Serious consideration was given to raising the subscription because we are now paying heavily for the utilities, alarm and insurances. The committee propose for 2009 a subscription of £35.00 with a £10.00 discount for payment made by the 31st December 2008 when renewing a membership. Late payers and new members will pay the full £35.00. Note to Keith Brewer thanking him for his services. Accounts need to be scrutinised. RH spoke to Ken Shell who is happy to undertake this role.
Trophies (a) A record of the winners of all the trophies is being compiled.
                 ( b) Repairs to trophies. The Coronation Cup has been repaired and the Six a Side Trophy refurbished
                 (c) Spastics Cup This is to be renamed refurbished and allocated to a suitable class
                 (d)Auditing. A new auditor is required as K Brewer does not wish to continue.
Buoys and Vane events.
(a) New Buoys. Now eight buoys on the lake including one new one. Three further buoys will be in place shortly. The others are on order. Now have 4 buoys on winders for use when additional buoys are needed for the start and finish lines. The agreed positions are indicated on a map that will be on display in the Boat House. The map will also give health and safety instructions for their installation and removal
Clubhouse/Boathouse:
(a) PA Trolley. A new, smaller, PA Trolley has been built by Mike Thomas
(b) Sail Racks. Unauthorised use of the sail box rack is still continuing, this must be stopped.
(c) Vane poles. The storage place for the starting and finishing poles has been changed
(d) Ladder Rack. This is now relocated and is also a great improvement.
(e) Shutters. Discussion on the state of the paintwork on the shutters and the need to deal with blistering etc this winter. Due to the need to probably complete the job on site, it was agreed that the Council should be contacted re the short life of the equipment. We have obtained a budget quotation for powder coating the shutters of £6/700.00
   (f) Keys. To control security no further keys will be issued, we believe there are enough in circulation.
2008/9 Sailing Programme:
(a) Marblehead National and Vintage Competition: It was agreed by the Committee because of the difficulties in the differences between the modern and vintage Marblehead vessels that there would not be a separate competition of the two types and that a special award would be given to the highest placed vintage boat in the event. However, the entries show that there are no vintage boats participating.
(b) Sailing Rules. First drafts of the illustrated book are being perused by two Committee members.
(c) Vane Nationals. This was a huge success with an excellent team and first class social events. In spite of the weather there was excellent sailing. Financially the books balanced. The Committee would like particular thanks to be sent to Martin Bandey for taking over at such short notice and running such a successful Regatta. Also thanks to Martin and Liz Bandey and Ray and Nora Baker for setting up the social events. The awards, “Friends of the A Class and Gosport” (FOG) in recognition of their support over the years for this event by the Club were purchased from “Marked and Sparkling” These were much appreciated by the four recipients.
(d)Flag Poles. The flag poles were purchased and looked very good at the A Nationals. Thanks to Pete and Julie Lawley for their sterling work ensuring they were erected with flags and put away each day.
(e) Laser Nationals. There has been a review concerning the date of the National Laser Competition to be held 13/14th June 2009 it is now scheduled for the weekend of 20/21st June 2009.
(f) Micro Magic Class. Series of e-mails since Class informed of Committee agreement that because of the busy sailing programme already in place the Club could not support such an event. Consideration would be given for inclusion next year if an application is received. We have informed them that any request for next year needs a liaison officer from within Gosport MY&BC.
(g) Next year’s Sailing Diary. We have applied for and offer to host the following competitions; 36 Vane Nationals, Laser Nationals, PRACC rounds, Met & Southern District competition, H M Services Nationals plus a MYA Workshop this latter event was allocated elsewhere .
(h) Recycled Boat Race. Tremendous success with many entries and provided excellent publicity for the Club. The schedules provided for children to work from were much appreciated. Thoughts on what should be awarded prizes next year to be considered perhaps a theme like Pirates or a prize for the best finished/prettiest.
Correspondence:
(a) Letter from Peter Whiteside re Gosport as venue for Vane A Championships next year instead of Fleetwood. Lengthy discussion followed with Committee agreeing that the selection of a venue is a matter for the MYA. RH will write to the MYA to ask that they investigate the issue, particularly as although the straw poll undertaken by Peter Whiteside showed that 37 skippers and crew said they would return to Gosport next year, 27 said they would go to Fleetwood. If Fleetwood cannot be encouraged to maintain the event could another Club be approached? Clearly Gosport is happy to stand by the present bi-annual arrangements. The MYA replied saying that the intention is for the event to be held at Fleetwood.
(b) E-mail from Martin Bandey who felt that other awards should have been made at the Vane A Championship from the Club. The awards made were for Friends of the A Class and Gosport (FOG). The presentations made clear that for two of the awards they were not associated with fifty years. After discussion, the Committee felt that it was not appropriate for an MYA team solely to run the event.
Council Business and Long Term Projects.
(a) Provision of new benches.   Three new benches have been installed one we have contributed towards £400.00
(b) Notice Boards. The wording has been agreed and three notice boards will be installed in the near future. We have provided a draft of a display board concerning the Lakes and the Club placed in Walpole Park. This consisted of photographs and text explaining the history of the lakes.
(c) Sluice Gate. The sluice gate had a leak, due to an obstruction which has been repaired and is now under a yearly maintainance check by the contractors.
(d) Fendering. The Committee agreed a donation £150:00 to the GBC for the provision of the new fendering. See photo on page11
Safety Issues:
(a) Water testing by the Public Health Department is continuing to ensure the water is safe, particularly in the smaller lake. English Nature continue to monitor both lakes.
(b) RH dealt with Enforcement Officers who visited the club on Saturday 30th August with charges of fly tipping/littering offences. This was due to a complaint from two members of the public witnessing items removed from the large lake being placed into the corner of the small lake to await disposal as per the instructions of the contractors responsible for lake clearance. No further collection of rubbish to take place. A letter was written to the members of the public concerned apologising for upsetting them and explaining the actions to be taken. In future, unless it is desperate, we will only remove rubbish on a Thursday. This is prior to the weekly clean up by the GBC team. We will place trolleys etc on the hard standing at the West end of the small lake with small rubbish in a black bag for their collection. If there is a special problem we will contact GBC for a specific collection
Club Rules: A new Rule Book is being compiled covering small amendments being made to reflect the changes to be incorporated and submitted for ratification at the 2008 AGM.   A public liability clause has be added to the rules in the light of an incident that happened at a local sailing event, the Club’s insurance company stated that the Club was fully covered in this matter
Archive. An 8mm film and scrapbooks of events at the Club before the war have been lent to MC. It was agreed that the Club would fund transferring the film to DVD and copying items from the scrapbooks
Members welfare. Ron Keiffer has volunteered to look out for missing members, in case they are unwell. "if you are hospitalised or suffer long term illness contact your welfare officer on 01329 665227 who will inform committee and keep you informed on Club activities. Ron has experience with this type of activity as he has looked after the members of Naval Fishing Association in a similar way for many years.
Club/Open Days The Committee propose to try and run “free sailing option” days on the Summer Bank Holidays, similar to the event shown on page 9. Skippers can champion their own favourite craft and also have a go on other classes, no organised racing just fun with yachts, boats and scale together with lots of tea and chat.
Sailing on the small lake Several members have investigated the use of the small lake for racing when there is a competition on the large lake. This has proved possible for IOM use so IOM racing /sailing is possible at Gosport every Sunday if the skippers turn up.
Donation to our president’s charity (the Mayor). It has been suggested that the Club contributes to this fund each year, what do you, the Members, think?
For sale The Club has £31.00 in the form of a voucher for the Marine Super Store. The committee agreed that the voucher may be purchased by any Club member at a discount for £25-00 if they are interested
Sailing Rules Session. Chris Watts may be able to give a presentation on the rules, in the morning at the Club House prior to the AGM at the Church Hall, NB to be confirmed.
Information
Please note that the minutes of all the Committee Meetings are available in a blue folder in the Club House.

ALEC POWELL with the latest RCLASER GOSSIP
RC Laser Gosport Skippers at the Olympics. This year’s best excuse for missing a Thursday Evening event undoubtedly goes to Russ Clark; his excuse? he was in Qingdao supporting his wife Penny who was competing for team GBR in the Laser Radial class. Penny posted some very impressive results in the first five races, counting a 1st, 2nd and 3rd, but unfortunately her other two results were in the twenties which, with only one discard from the 10 races, left her needing top ten results in the final five races to keep her in the chase for the medals. Penny qualified for the medal race and finished an impressive 10th overall. Whilst Penny was training hard for China this summer, Russ bought an RC Laser for Penny to use when all the hard work was over, so we hope to see her at the lakeside sometime over the winter: although he also purchased a foiling moth dinghy for Penny, which might have more appeal!!! Well done to both Penny and Russ for representing the country and the region in such fine style.

WHERE WE ARE SPENDING YOUR MONEY?
The Committee are pressing ahead with the payment and reimbursement of travelling expenses for organised presentations at the Club. We had a super presentation by Peter Wiles last month where I was amazed that the yacht hull only contributed 7% to the overall efficiency and performance of our yachts . The massive 93% being derived from the sails, fin and ballast. This fact alone was well worth the fee.
You will have noticed the three new benches at the lakes, two on the North bank and one on the East end especially for the vane sailing. New Buoys are being set in the lake ,and additional flag poles have been purchased.
Brian Leighton has arranged for the trophies to be re valued and has started the repair programme of the silver ones with the revitalised Coronation Cup. The “Sixaside” cup presented by Graham Wyeth’s father has been replated and polished with half the refurbishment cost £110.00 being donated by Graham. The six a side relates to a 10 Rater hull that was built with six planks per side. Thanks Graham.


		Above the new twin bench configuration and the West end of the lake showing the additional bench Far left the repaired Coronation Cup Near left the re plated Sixaside Cup

AS IT WAS !

left
Ronnie Jurd and Peter West
With Calypso a Priest design 1956 sail no 748.

right Crusader sail no 80
Sailing in 1925

V1   Sail No 133                                          Gertrude Sail No 3                                         Astrape Sail No 234
F Berkett’s JG Feltwell design       Ronnie Jurd’s D Thompson design         Admiral A Turners own design

Gosport 1934 or 36   Note the swimming pool in the background

IOM FLEET SIZE AND CLUB RACING

Some members have raised the point of the size of the IOM fleet on some Sundays ( which is great to see) causing some problems with collisions shorter tempers and occasional chaos especially when there are 18 boats at one time?
We could consider the following possibilities.
Fleets of smaller numbers would be much more manageable for the skippers. Even the most experienced get into trouble with 18 and it does rather spoil things and - heaven forbid - might put people off.
Suggestion include
(a) Race 2 fleets as in District and Nats This has the effect of ranking the fleet with out actually giving each skipper a club rating. This would probably return IOM events to an all day competition
(b) Race 2 courses either at each end of the lake or on the little one for one fleet, interchanging as necessary
(c) Rank skippers and run two levels of event on alternate IOM Sundays.
(No I do not wish to do the Ranking)
(d) It is thought that over 15 boats require 2 fleets and over 22 boats will require 3 fleets to operate efficiently
IOM Sailing every Sunday at GMY&BC if you wish!

MARBLEHEAD VANE NATIONALS GOSPORT 2008
This tri yearly event was sailed with us this year it then goes to Fleetwood and Bournville before returning to Gosport in 2011. Mervyn Cook reports a very friendly event with a smallish fleet. Chris Durant was an excellent RO, keeping to the letter of the rule, and communicating that he intended too. Jacque, Katie (Dann) and Julie Lawley did starting and finishing, and Pete and Julie did flags, poles, vandal watch, etc. John Smith, of course, did scoring. Perfect team! Results were completed within about half an hour of finishing the three rounds!
The following are the highlights from Chris Durant’s, the Race Officers Report.
The wind direction on both days was variable and generally gave close reaching legs both ways. Fortunately the wind filled in on Sunday and the fleet was presented with true runs and beats with competitors taking the opportunity to give their spinnakers an airing. The winner of the Model Maker Cup for novice Vane sailors was the joint entry of Mervyn Cook and Peter Fothergill. The most interesting design of the weekend was Anthony Warren’s highly varnished unique wooden design, variously referred to in unkind moments as a coffin, shoe box and aircraft carrier. Anthony was hampered by having only a B rig as his largest sail, yet the boat showed a turn of speed in light winds that surprised many, and indeed he had the last laugh on Sunday in a re-sail with Mike Harris when Anthony’s boat beat Mike’s decisively.

1	Mike Harris	Bournville
2	Chris Harris	Bournville
3	Shaun Wyeth	Gosport
4	Peter Stollery	Guildford
5	Mervyn Cook & Peter Fothergill	Gosport
6	Jim Jakes	Gosport
7	Anthony Warren	Gosport & Hampton Court
8	Steve Poole	Three Rivers

What a splendid flag display . Picture Ron Kiefer

CLUB DAY 2008
This year we changed the concept of our open days to “Club Days” the idea being to have a laid back days sailing with no specific events organised just sailing of the classes you wished to sail. The result was a great success with skippers enjoying their sailing throughout the day. Yes several members of the public were accosted and yes we did attract a few new members but the overall intent of having a pleasurable days sailing and discussing yachting was accomplished as the pictures below show.


It was a relaxing day?	A beautiful Mirror Dinghy Sorry cannot remember the builders name(Ed)	Sailing can be laid back
Katie’s tiny yacht dwarfed by an RA		Mike’s Multi hull chasing a rclaser

VINTAGE VANE “A” AT THE “A” NATIONALS

Not only did Roger Cole get Legend his superb Admiral Turner “MOONRAKER “ready for the vintage event prior to the A Class Nationals he went on to win the event with Arnie Peace as his mate with a full score sheet. This was another first for Gosport when six Vintage A Class took part in a competition on the Saturday evening before the Nationals bringing these beautiful yachts out of retirement for all to see.

BUOY MANAGEMENT AT THE LAKES

We have reduced the number of buoys left in the lake and are installing eight, white, round, rotating buoys in the large lake. There will be a map of these semi permanent buoy positions in the boat house. Prior to major events, especially vane, the Committee will if at all possible arrange for the buoys to be removed and replaced. In some instances this may not be possible and the Competitors at an event can under the direction of the OOD move the buoys to the ends and corners of the lake, or remove them, on the strict understanding the buoys are replaced at the end of sailing as per the positions indicated on the map. The Vane skippers agreed that for all Club events the reduced number of buoys, eight, will remain in their respective places. We now have four, smaller, colourful buoys on lines attached to reels that can easily be positioned to create start or finish lines to suit the wind direction should this be necessary. The map also includes the Health and Safety procedures for the installation and removal of the buoys.

BILL GREEN & MERVYN COOK on the VANE A NATS
The A class model yacht is an historic class, and this championship has been held every year since 1922. Trophies include the Scrutton Cup, for the overall points winner, and the magnificent Yachting Monthly Cup, presented by the Yachting Monthly magazine in 1923. This is contested in a separate day’s racing during the week’s championship, as is the ‘Prince of Wales’ trophy in the International 14 class. The event was held at the Gosport MYBC’s Cockle Pond lake. The club at Gosport has held the Open A Championship every other year since 1922, with odd years going to the Fleetwood MYC. A class yachts are designed to a rating formula, similar to the six and twelve metre full size yachts. A-boats in the 2008 championship were up to seven feet long, between 28 and 59lbs displacement, with commensurate variations in waterline length and sail area. Modern boats are built of carbon, with carbon rigs, mylar sails and ballast ratios of over 80%. For this event they are not radio controlled, they are steered in the traditional way by complex wind vane mechanisms. Racing for vane yachts is organised as match racing. 3 points are scored for the beat, at the end of which boats are taken out and rigged with spinnakers for the run, scoring 2 points to the winner. Each boat has a crew of at least two, as tacking is achieved by poling the boats round when they come in to the bank. Strict rules are upheld for this procedure, as well as any re-trimming required on the spinnaker run. The fleet comprised 19 yachts, plus an extra seven for the YM cup, held on the Wednesday. Fifteen of the competitors were past or present World, European or National champions, both in vane and radio. The first day, Saturday, was given over to scrutineering and practice sailing, followed by a vintage race in which six beautifully maintained yachts from the nineteen-fifties competed. The event proper started on the Sunday, opened by the Mayor of Gosport, who acted as official starter for the first race of the day. There was a good breeze, and at the end of a long day the Stollery ‘Robot’ design of Austin and Harris was leading from the John Simpson design of Roberts and McNulty. Third place was shared by the MYA president, Derek Priestley’s ‘VC2’, and Martin Dovey’s brand new lightweight ‘Sergeant Pepper’.

Photo Martin Bandey	The second day dawned damp and windy, which was how it continued. The fleet was split into heats, and by the end of the day, after some spectacular spinnaker runs, Priestley was just ahead of Roberts and McNulty, followed by Austin and Harris, with Peter Whiteside’s Simpson designed ‘Bluenote’ running a close fourth. Day three was very (very) wet and breezy, but by now skippers and crews were settling in to the physical demands of the week. An A boat with a spinnaker pulling in 15 knots of wind is a pretty fast outfit. If you don’t get to the end of the lake before the boat, it is a disaster; the only way of stopping the boat is to be there to catch it! Or as a last resort to jump into the water in front of the boat! By the end of Tuesday, the scores showed that Rob Vice’s Stollery designed ‘Lollipop’ design had moved in to the lead, followed by Roberts and McNulty.	Wednesday was scheduled for racing for the Yachting Monthly Cup. Ghosts of the international competitors of past challenges lured a fleet of 26 boats to the start lines, including Graham Reeves lovely 1950 vintage Yeoman, and Bruce Prole’s 1970’s past winner, ‘Daddy Long Pig’. The home club enjoyed the lighter winds, and the semi finals included three Gosport boats. The close-run final was between Martin Dovey’s ‘Sergeant Pepper’ and Shaun Wyeth’s magnificent long Dave Hollom design; Wyeth’s boat winning the beat and winning the cup for the second consecutive year. Both were new designs for 2008, demonstrating that ultra-modern development continues in this magnificent heritage class.
By the Thursday, crews were feeling the pace, but the winds had moderated and sailing was somewhat less physical for the rest of the meeting. The championship series was on again. A long day of shifty winds was ahead. The shifts made each board difficult to read, and by the end of the day Austin and Harris had started to edge ahead of Roberts and McNulty. The final day of racing was also a day of light, fluky winds. Throughout the day Austin and Harris read the shifts to perfection, and rarely put a foot wrong. When racing was called to a halt the overall winner was Austin and Harris’s ‘Robot’, with 116 points; Roberts and McNulty’s Simpson design second with 109, and in third place was Priestley’s VC2 with 97. To put Austin and Harris’s mastery of the fleet into perspective, it is the tenth time that they had won the event. However, the future of the event looks to be assured; as there were two new designs and four new boats at this championship.		The Mayor and Mayoress receive a cheque from the Club Picture Ron Kiefer

GMY&BC Web sites www.gosportmybc.org.uk www.rclasergosport.org.uk		Thank You MIKE
54 Guildford Drive Chandlers Ford Hants SO 53 3PT Editor Phone:02380 255896 Email:roberto.hobbs@virgin.net	Just two of the beautiful pieces of bespoke furniture that Mike Thomas has designed and built for the Club. Mike’s wood working and sign writing skills are second to none and he has provided the Club with facilities that will out live many of us and give joy and sterling service to future members of GMY&BC for many years.
GOSPORT IS THE TRADITIONAL HOME OF THE “A” CLASS	Also a safe haven for rclaser, IOM, 36”, Marblehead, Multi hull, Scale Boats and Vintage Yachts

NEWS FROM THE BOAT HOUSE
1 Only ONE yacht is to be kept in each berth, the Committee will not allow offenders, who regularly use other space, to renew their membership (Club rule 8) or berth at the end of the year. Please only use the space you have paid for.
2 Please note that yachts with allocated berths are the only ones allowed to be stored in the boat house this also applies to use of the sail box stand
3 RA skippers, who do not have a berth, please note that leaving your yacht rigged after a Thursdays practice ready for a Sundays event is not allowed. Problems are caused with access especially if there is a Laser or 36” event on the Saturday, also your yachts may become damaged with other yacht and skipper movements on the Saturday.
4 Mike Thomas has installed wall mounted racking for the ladder allowing better access around the tank for working when measuring yachts. He has also completed a splendid trolley for the PA system when we are operating eight semi permanent buoys not provide sensible start and finish lines there are four buoys on reels that can be easily positioned from the banks to create start or finish lines to suit the wind direction.

Spring 2008 NEWSLETTER

Inside this issue:

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE

RA SAILING

MATCH RACING

CLUB OPEN DAY

COMMITTEE BUSINESS

CONCERN FOR OUR LAKES

HOW TO SPEND YOUR MONEY ?

A SKIPPER'S VIEW

COMPUTER BOFFINS AND
WEB SITE MANAGEMENT

MYA FREE SAILING LEAGUE

VANE SAILING & 36” REPORT

CLUB CLOTHING

AS IT WAS

FINDING ZERLINA

LASER REPORT

VANE TUTORIAL

NEWS FROM THE BOAT HOUSE

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE
Welcome to our first newsletter of 2008 this will be an exciting year for the Club with more members, most of whom take an active part in our sailing programme. This year we have 92 scheduled weekend events, this is by far the most comprehensive sailing programme of any Club in the UK, in fact its not far short of the MYA sailing programme itself. This success of course brings with it its own problems, although not very serious, as a Club we have to address them. Skippers have different levels of sailing skill and understanding of the Rules and although errors to do take place some Skippers are choosing to ignore even the simplest Rule of port gives way to a starboard yacht. Not only does this cause upset it actual ruins many peoples sailing. Our introduction of OOD’s for most events should help enforce the Rules.

One of the most important Rules of sailing is that skippers should sail fairly and we all know when we infringe and should therefore own up, take the penalty and get on with the race. It is fun, we are not sailing for the Crown Jewels so I suggest that all skippers aim for a higher understanding of the Rules and other skippers feelings. One useful test is how would I feel if this was done to me?

This year we are holding the Vane A Nationals, David Moody as well as being A Class Captain is looking after the social side of this event. We are also hosting the Vane Marblehead Nationals and to increase the entry level we are inviting Vintage yachts to compete with a supplementary prize for this Class of entry. Mervyn Cook is looking after this event. Both of these events will require a team of officials to spread the load and make them a success, so please let David and Mervyn have your support.

The Committee believe that training and education should form an important part of our future programme. Last year we held the very successful MYA Workshop and it is proposed that we host one of these in 2009, this year already we have had a very successful Vane tutorial given by Bill Green with assistance from Ray Baker and Graham Wyeth. Mike Tattersall delivered an excellent seminar on Match Racing to get Mike Nichols proposals for additional RA sailing underway, more of this later.

Gosport Model Yacht and Boat Club as we know it was formed in 1913, although there had been regular sailing on the Cockle Pond from the late 1800’s. This is the third century of sailing on the Walpole Lakes and 2013 will be our Centenary. We would like members thoughts on how best to celebrate this anniversary. It is essential that if we are to make this a success we set up a sub-committee to plan the event and register our desire to run a World or National event if that is deemed applicable. We have an excellent long term planning model developed by Chris Chandler and his team when we hosted the RA Worlds in 2005.

This is my second stint as your Commodore and the Club has changed considerably over the last 8 years, I believe it is my responsibility to keep taking the Club forward building on the success that we created together, rather than just resting on our laurels and let things tick over, this means some of the established and accepted procedures will change, hopefully for the benefit of us all.

Your Committee have adopted a procedure for accepting and answering members proposals and comments that involves more time being taken before an answer can be given. In some instances where the membership has to be consulted it may take a few months. This is essential when we have over 110 members.

GMY&BC
Web sites
www.gosportmybc.org.uk
www.rclasergosport.org.uk

RA SAILING
Towards the end of last year RA fleet sailing fell off on Sunday afternoons, perhaps due to the wet and windy weather. Mike Nicols together with John Hayston put together proposals to match race RA’s on Sunday afternoons. Match racing consists of two yachts racing against each other normally best of 3 or 5 races to determine a winner. It requires a umpire/observer for each pair of yachts. Below is a copy of Mike Nichols proposal. The Committee decided to have 2 trial days and to ensure a good understanding Mike Tattersall gave an excellent tutorial on match racing for those skippers who were interested in taking part.

The proposal has been modified to ensure that RA Cup events remain as full day sailing ie to include coffee, lunch and tea breaks throughout the day. It is thought that skippers would not travel from very far for just a morning sailing, although this is the case in some instances with the IOM skippers. Personally I would like to see RA Fleet sailing remain as all day events,
however it is up to you the members to make your wishes known to the Committee. Match racing can be run just like a squash ladder with skippers agreeing to sail at any time that suits.

MATCH RACING

A PROPOSAL TO USE THE AFTERNOON S FOLLOWING A.M. RADIO A CHAMPIONSHIP RACING TO TRIAL AND HOPEFULLY RUN A MATCH RACING SERIES.
BACKGROUND
Radio A sailing and racing has experienced a considerable surge in popularity in recent years.
As we understand it this is due to a number of factors:-
~ The activity by the Club, Committee and individuals to promote the class.
~The successful growth in Club membership.
~The national efforts of the MYA to run National Championships PRACC and, in 2005, the World Championships.
All these were designed to raise the profile and interest level.
This appears to have been particularly successful at G.M.Y.&. B.C., and Club ownership is over 30 Skippers, and in all 29 boats raced during the 2007 season.
CURRENT SITUATION
Momentum from individual Skippers wanting to have more opportunity to sail their RAs lead to the introduction of RA Thursdays. This has been reasonably successful with up to 10 boats, but occasionally only 3, and after consultation with skippers we would like these to continue. At the same time the sailing of RAs seems to have reached a plateau at a successful, but even, level. Last autumn we asked RA Skippers if they had any ideas to help continue the interest in and the development of the class. One key suggestion was the proposal to have match racing on RA Sunday afternoons.
THE PROPOSAL
To trial Match Racing on Sunday afternoons after RA Championship racing in the morning (currently there is no organised activity for RAs - cf. IOM p.m. series).
THE REASONING
~ Activity finishes after am racing – some people don’t want to go home!
~ A number of Skippers would like to continue sailing their boats having got them rigged and racing.
~ The boats are in race trim ready for further competition – and have taken some time to rig ~ It is another opportunity to sail these lovely boats.
~ Why Match racing?
~ It is another form of racing currently not experienced in the Club.
~ It is a means of improving competitors’ expertise, knowledge of tactics, and racing skills - and enjoyment.
~ Whilst up to 6 boats could possibly be on the water at any one time – 3 races - it reduces racing congestion at buoys and hopefully encourages less experienced skippers to familiarise themselves with the class.
HOW WOULD IT OPERATE?
Mike Tattersall has considerable match racing experience in big boats and has kindly offered to ‘take the lead’, possibly helped by others as he deems necessary.
We propose to trial first and see if there is sufficient interest (we believe there is), and to establish the best method of operation. If that is successful after – say – a couple of Sundays of tuition and experiment we would propose a competition series.
Operational details
~ We should sail to normal racing rules.
~ Match racing starts will be necessary.
~ The course :
~Should be simple with a fair start line with a windward and leeward mark, rounding the windward mark twice and finishing on a run. It may require rearrangement of buoys with the dinghy.
~ Probably half the length of the lake would be enough. They don’t want to be too prolonged with 5~10 minutes per race being sufficient.
~ Races could be started at intervals so that quite a few could be completed and more people would be involved.
~ Observers will be important to keep abreast of penalty turn situations.
~ Scoring ~ some form of competition “Ladder” would be required (this to be worked on), in order to arrive at a victor at the end of a series of Sundays – hence the suggestion for a Trophy if a series gets off the ground.
~ Timing
We would like to start on the 1st. RA Sunday – 10th February. If the lake is not ready it is an ideal time to engage as many RA Skippers as we can in the morning. If it is ready then we would propose an inside tutorial followed by an exhibition on the lake to introduce the subject.
The following event – March 9th. Would be an opportunity to trial without it being part of a series. By then we would be able to judge level of interest and operational problems, and decide the way forward from there.
Mike Nichols,
Radio A Class Vice Captain

CLUB OPEN DAY 11th May - BE THERE!
We are holding our Open Day on May 11th.
What events do you wish to organise to encourage visitors to have a go or to attract other skippers to your favourite activity at GMY&BC?
Volunteersrequired to: Erect flag poles and bunting; Place Banners on the Main Road; Set out courses, TugTowing, Match Racing, Steering
Fleet Racing etc etc. Have their yacht/boat available for visitors use
Generally promote the Club to all visitors
Help tidy up at the end of the event
DO NOT FORGETCLUB DAY27th JULY2008

COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Membership State: 116 members, this includes 7 life members. Two new applications this month approved; Benjamin Nesbitt and Brian Harris.
Financial State: Brian Leighton reported on the state of the Club’s finances, detailing the receipts and payments since the last meeting. Overall, the Club continues to be in a healthy financial state.
(a) Insurance; The Club’s insurance has been renewal until 22.3.09. The trophies will be valued for insurance purposes on 17.4.08. Once the valuation has been completed the insurance company will be inform.
(b) Clothing. The cttee agreed that in future members requiring items that carry the club’s logo should deal directly with the company concerned – Swift Clothing. A catalogue will be available in the club house for reference and ordering purposes.
The cttee wishes to thank John Hayston for the hard work that he has carried out on behalf of the club in ordering the clothing in the past.
Sailing Tuition. The need for sailing tuition is to be raised in the next edition of the club newsletter. Members will be asked for their views on the subject and their opinion on expenses that could be incurred.
Clubhouse/Boathouse:
(a) Anemometer
The flagpole has been reinstated with the wind direction apparatus fitted. The electronic equipment will be housed on the bracket that has been provided in the club house.
(b) Berthing issues. In the course of reviewing the PA Trolley repairs, it was hoped that a much smaller version could be built, it will not release more available the space as reported in the last minutes but will allow extra room for access to the measuring tank etc.
(c ) Rescue Boat. Shaun Wyeth kindly informed the cttee that he knew where there were inflatable rescue boats for sale and asked the cttee if the club would be interested. The cttee discussed the offer and decided that at present the two boats already in the boat house are sufficient to cover the club’s needs.
(d) Name Board for Life Members: Mike Mizzen made a suggestion to the cttee regarding the provision of a name board to be placed in the Cub House detailing the names of Life Members. The reason was that the award of a Life Membership is given to members who have given their time, skill and support in ensuring that the club commands a high reputation within the model yachting world. The names that are too be placed on this board are as follows; R. Jurd; Billy Williams; Bill Long; David Lee; Roy Gardner; Peter West; Eric Roberts; Eric Crockford; Frank Pankhurst; Graham Wyeth; Michael Thomas; Kenneth Shell; John Storey; Robert Hobbs; and Arthur Lancaster.
(e) Battery Chargers. A new charger for the outboard motor has been purchased. The old charger is for sale for £10:00 to anybody who would like to purchase it – please see Brian Leighton for details.. The batteries for the outboard are to be “load tested” to check for their status. Ken Shell is to decide on whether the club should buy a new charger for charging model yacht batteries
(f) Sail Racks. It has been brought to the notice of the cttee that some members are using the sail rack incorrectly. Please note that only IOM berth holders are entitled to use this rack.
(g) “A” Boat Storage. Would all members please note that the storage of “A” boats in the non allocated areas within the boat house between Thursday and the following Sunday is not allowed.
2007/08 Sailing Programme:
(a) Marblehead Vintage: This class will be included in the National Meeting in September. The cttee agreed the proposal and MC to proceed with actions concerning the event. Official approval from the MYA is awaited. This approval has now been received verbally from the MYA.
(b) Currey Mug: It has been pointed out that the Currey Mug Competition is not in being sailed for in this year’s sailing calendar. The year is already fully booked with competitions for all classes of yachts with at least 17 for IOM’s. The Class and Vice Captains were all consulted and full agreement was reached concerning the fixtures for this year. Therefore the Currey Mug will be rested for this year
It should be noted that IOM’s are encouraged to race on the smaller lake every Sunday this adds a further 50 slots for the IOM’s. This may well develop in 2008 especially due to the fresh water in both lakes and most of the rubbish removed
(c )Vane Sailing: The points system as used at the GMY&BC has been forwarded to the MYA for review and a request that the free sailing SSI & rules be revised.
(d) Vane Sailing - Joint Skippers. It has been suggested that there is a points sharing scheme for the Vane skippers. The cttee have decided that as this contravenes the MYA rules on this subject the club would not support the suggestion.
(e) Non Club Members sailing.
The cttee have agreed that the entry fees for people wishing to sail at the lake during one of our sessions and who are MYA but not a club member will be £3:00. The maximum number of sailing sessions allowed per year will be 3.
(f) Sailing Rules. John Smith has kindly agreed to produce a illustrated book concerning the Club and explaining the basic rules of sailing. This is in response to some of the difficulties during racing that have been experienced already this year. The cttee trusts that this will help all skippers to enjoy their sailing and ensure that disputed are kept to a minimum
Correspondence:
(a) A letter has been received from the Scale Warship Enthusiasts inviting the club to participate in their events. The cttee decided that the club would not take part but would advertise the events on the notice board.
(b) Arnie Peace. The cttee have decided to co-opt Arnie as a non executive House Officer. Arnie carries out the arduous duties ensuring the water in the ponds are at the correct level as well as the up keep of all the markers among a list of other such duties.
MYA Business: The MYA are to consider the amendments to the rules to Vane sailing that have been suggested by the GMY&BC.
Council Business and Long Term Projects.
a) Provision of new bench. It was proposed and accepted by the AGM for the provision of an extra bench to be provided at the club’s expense. This will be situated along side the one already on the north side of the pond nearest the club. GBC have agreed to install another bench as requested
b) Notice Boards. The wording has been agreed and three notice boards will be installed in the near future. The GBC have been reminded of the situation they have also requested a display board to be produced concerning the lakes.
(c ) Fenders: The pond was been drained to allow work on 50 metres of new fendering. The fendering that has just been installed has not been paid for by the Club. The GBC are not satisfied with the quality of the work and are in consultation with the contractors concerned.
(d) Weed Cutting. The cttee agreed that the club would increase its contribution to the GBC regarding the cost of weed cutting. The actual amount will be decided once this year’s cost is known.
Club Security:
(a) The current list of people who are on the security list is to be reviewed.
The police are to be informed of the following names of members who have agreed to be on a call out list for the club house in the case of an emergency - Mick Thomas; John Storey; John Smith and Gary Cooper.
(b) The Treasurer is to rewrite the rules concerning the issue and use of the keys to the boathouse. New form has been issued.
(c ) The Treasurer has purchased a set of number stamps to identify the number of keys that are being issued to club members.
Club Rule Book: The rules were changed at the last AGM and a new Rule Book is to be compiled and distributed to all members. JC is to amend the present copy to reflect these changes and forward to JS for printing. These will be adopted now for ratification at the AGM
Complaint from a member of the public. A complaint has been received from a member of the public concerning bad language used during one of our racing sessions. The cttee appreciates that passions run high whilst racing, however there is no place to cause offence to either members of the public or other club members. The policy of the club is to ensure that everybody enjoys their racing and that members of the public are not offended by our presence.
Please remember that we do sail in a public area.
Class Tutorial. Bill Green gave an excellent tutorial on Vane sailing. The event was a success and everybody concerned enjoyed the occasion. The cttee wishes to thank Bill Green for his help and commitment t this event.
MYA Workshop. JS suggested that another MYA workshop be held at the club next year. Action ongoing JS.
Result Board. Jacque Cook requested that the 36R racing results are to be displayed on the existing “Results Board”. Mike Tattersall is to be asked to rearrange if possible the existing board to accommodate these results.
Press Article. In a future issue of Model Boats there will be an article about GMY&BC.
Joining and renewal Forms. The wording is to be changed on the joining and renewal forms stating that members agree to abide by the club rules.
Club Procedures. Significant proposals raised by members will be acknowledged and brought to the next council meeting for consideration. If necessary details will be circulated to the Membership for comments before any final decisions are made. This may take a little time however it is thought necessary. The member may be asked to give a presentation on their idea to the cttee.

CONCERNED ABOUT YOUR LAKES?

Skippers and club members should be concerned about our lakes, in the last issue we highlighted the history and the controlling factors for the operation and management of these lakes. Last year we managed to negotiate the control of the water levels with Gosport Borough Council. This is not a simple task of letting the water in and out, the lakes can only be
topped up on certain high tides and the valve has to be opened, monitored and closed over a period of hours. Surprising enough this does not happen between 2 and 4 in the afternoon on a sunny Sunday, it takes place at many inconvenient hours. John Smith and Arnie, picture opposite, spent many hours in December and January controlling the water level, especially
when draining down for the contractors to fit the new edging.

Whilst the lakes were drained Arnie spent many hours unblocking the link pipes between the small and large lake searching for leads and removing incredible amounts of rubbish. Arnie also acts as Buoy Manager and keeps these up to scratch. Arnie acts as our outside House Officer with exactly the same spirit with which Mike Thomas tackles the internal projects
for the Boat and Club House.
Gosport Model Yacht and Boat Club is extremely fortunate in having two such hard working members, who contribute so much to the enjoyment of our sport and membership.

WHERE CAN WE SPEND YOUR MONEY?
The Committee will continue to fund projects around Walpole Lakes, such as the provision of additional bench seating and improvements to the pond edge fendering. The last section installed was unsatisfactory and will be removed by the contractors and replaced with heavier duty boarding. Having control of the sluice has entailed certain health and safety measures for which we have contributed. The weed cutting and debris removal that is sometimes necessary during the season has increased considerably and although we do not fund the full amount we will increase our contribution to the Council for this important service. New lids have been made for the measuring tank, and a battery charger purchased for the Boat House. Brian Leighton is arranging to revalue our Silver Cups and obtain quotations for the repair of some of these magnificent trophies.
When we run training or workshops it is unrealistic for us to expect the presenters to keep undertaking these activities at their own expense especially with the rising cost of fuel and the demands on the weekend of people who are in employment. In future when we host a training session we would like to pay reasonable travelling expenses and perhaps a daily rate if necessary. Earlier this year we had the opportunity to have an RYA Olympic tactician give us a presentation, however the Committee declined on the basis of cost not having a mandate from the membership. The Committee would like your opinion on travelling expenses and a maximum day rate for any future events.
Please send your comments ASAP to Gary Cooper the Hon Secretary or the Commodore for discussion at the next Committee meeting.

A Skipper's View
Reference 1 Metre Sailing at GMBYC on 24th February. Dear Neil & Mike,
I am sorry to say that I feel compelled to write to you in your capacities as class captain and vice captain to express my disappointment at what appeared to be flagrant abuse of the fundamental racing rules by several of the competitors taking part in the 1 Metre racing on Sunday morning. Out of the 10 races that I started, I was hit by port tack boats in 6 races whilst approaching the windward mark on starboard. On a seventh occasion, whilst running downwind on starboard gybe, a windward boat above me was unable to keep clear because of a port tack boat, also running downwind who seemed completely oblivious to the situation. In addition to my finishing position in these races being severely compromised, my boat also incurred some damage which although fairly minor will nonetheless require time and money to put right. It is not the damage that I have a problem with, sometimes that is an unfortunate
aspect of boat racing; what I have a problem with is the manner by which it was caused.
I would like to believe that this apparent disregard of the rules was actually more a case of poor judgement, but it seems to be the same few boats time and time again. The onus is on the non right of way boat to keep clear, and if there is any doubt then the non right of way boat should err on the side of caution. Many of the problems at the approach to the windward mark were caused by starboard tack boats that were not on the layline simply tacking on to port when they were in a hopeless position, i.e. trapped by other starboard tack boats in a more windward position. It is not my position to offer coaching or advice but I would encourage competitors to be more aware of the situations that are developing. If they find themselves in a poor position then it’s too bad, you simply can’t just go piling in and hope for the best which I think is what was happening. The rules don’t require a sailor to anticipate what is going to
happen next but you don’t have to be very bright to understand that thinking ahead, particularly at crowded mark roundings can save an awful lot of trouble.
Sailing is a self policing sport and one of its fundamental principles is that sailors agree to sail fairly by the rules and if a rule is infringed then they have to take a penalty. What I witnessed on Sunday was the valuable integrity of the sport being undermined either by abuse of the rules, plain carelessness or a reluctance to take penalty turns. If sailors are either not prepared to accept these principles or are not capable of sailing within the rules then they should think twice about taking part.
I am fairly new to radio sailing, having only joined the Gosport club in June last year. I chose the GMBYC firstly because it is reasonably local to me but also because I understood that the club was well established and was held in high regard amongst the RC world. Right now I don’t feel that I made the right decision, perhaps next time things will be a little better?
Yours Sincerely
Ian Brown
GBR 2754

COMMODORE’S COMMENTS
Thank you Ian for the above letter however this is not what sailing at Gosport is ALL about. Sailing should be fun and enjoyable although we all like the thrill of the competition. Mike submitted a comprehensive race report to the Committee and there were other problems due to the wind direction and skippers tacking late at the marks. Hopefully including your letter in the news letter will cause some of the skippers to think again.

Robert

Resident Computer Boffins?!
I hope all of you will take the opportunity to look at our websites, Alec Powell posts a great deal of information concerning the RC Lasers, with their sailing programme, results, photos, for sale and their trophy cabinet. This allows Laser skippers to see at a glance see where they are in the current series, check out www.rclasersgosport.org.uk for yourself. Members should have also noted by now how our other website www.gosportmybc.org.uk has been developing over recent months. Its brightly coloured format certainly welcomes you to our Club, just like Alec with the Lasers John Smith is posting the racing results for both radio and vane on this site, including the overall Club championship. Mike Tattersall as Vice Class Captain for IOM’s is continuing his sterling job of race results on the Club notice board. Mervyn Cook is also feeding John the results of Vane competitions.
Not only is John the wizard of the website but his banking background has enabled him to produce superb spread sheets, for membership, race results, vane sailing cards and measurement certificates. The latter including a what if calculation for the extremely complicated A Class Measurement. We are very fortunate to have members who can contribute these skills to our Club and allow it to move forward in keeping with modern technology.

GOSPORT WINS MYA FREE SAILING CHAMPIONSHIPS
In the Club House you may have noticed a large wooden shield on top of the display cabinet this is the MYA Free Sailing Championship Trophy. We won this for the first time in 2007, the trophy has tended to spend its life between Fleetwood, Bourneville and Birkenhead. Hopefully with our increased activity in Vane sailing we can retain the trophy next year. So come on you vane skippers pick up your pole and shove off for a superb 2008.

VANE A SAILING REPORT by MERVYN COOK

The first two race-days of the 2008 provided some interesting sailing. The first was sailed in weather balmy enough for Cannes. Graham Wyeth's stretched Privateer dominated, with Derek Kitchener's VC2 in second place, but the racing was close enough to see some close and even overlapped finishes. March's race-day was the very opposite, with boisterous and building breezes. Only one full heat was sailed, with reduced rigs, until sense prevailed and racing was halted for the day.
But it was un-missable sailing!
This is going to be an exciting year for Gosport's vane A's. In August we are holding the 82nd national championships, 38 of which have taken place over the decades at the Walpole Lakes. Work is already in hand to ensure the week will be one to remember. But be warned that check measurements will be undertaken on each boat entered.
Any member whose boat might need to be checked should make contact with one of the club measurers and arrange
an appointment. Don't leave it until the last moment, it is possible that you may need to make alterations, and
this could take time!

The complex and fascinating nature of the A class rule ensures that a new vane A is always an event! We have already been privileged to see the hull of Shaun Wyeth's beautiful new Hollom designed boat, built by John Gale. She is so long that she looks fast even when sitting in the measurers tank! There are also rumours that at least one more new boat is in build, and will be sailing at the championship. And yet it is the rating rule is so effective that even vintage boats may well have their moment of glory during the week.
The next Sunday racing for Vane A's is on Sunday April 13th.
VANE SKIPPERS PLEASE NOTE GMY&BC WILL NOT ACCEPT JOINT SKIPPERS IN CLUB EVENTS

36” VANE RACING AT GOSPORT

Racing for our newly established 36” fleet has started the new season with a couple of excellent day's racing. Both took place in good breezes, and clearly demonstrated that 36” sail very well in quite strong winds. And that spinnakers help! A strong contingent of visiting helms from Bournville brought their 36” for the second event, and generally showed the locals the way down the lake. In our defence, Bournville has been the home to 36” for many decades and among their skippers were the current A Class champion, and a past A and 36” champion. However, it should serve as an incentive for our fleet to learn more about our boats, and to try to ensure that the next time
we have visiting helms, we give them a better run for their money!

The Gosport fleet continues to build, with two of the Martin Dovey's 'Sybora' design boats sailing already, and three more due to hit the water this spring. Their performance so far is very promising indeed, with good speed and sure handling in a wide range of conditions.
Mike Dann has been sailing a prototype carbon fibre flyer, rigged with powerful multi-hull style sails and a very simple and effective asymmetric spinnaker. She has the sleek appearance of a miniature Open 60, and is a fresh interpretation of the 36” rule. Also, Robert Hobbs has now completed his beautifully planked vintage 36”, to the Lady Betty design. She will be braine steered.
One of the charms of the 36” class is that, given the right conditions, a vintage boat can be very competitive. Bruce Prole's famous boat 'The Spider' has already demonstrated this in the Gosport fleet with some strong performances. Spider was designed and built by Bill Sykes some fifty years ago, and won the 36r nationals three times, in 1967, 68 and 70. She has a very deep V hull, with a 'duck' bow developed from the earlier 'Tucker Duck' bowed boats designed by H.B.Tucker. Spider's illustrious career has also endured periods of controversy, when she was ruled illegal by the MYA committee in 1983 for having a carbon mast and grp booms. These had been allowed by the original rule, but were outlawed by the MYA's 1980's revision. Sykes changed the mast, but refused to change the booms, arguing for a 'grandfather dispensation' for his twenty year old boat. The Committee stood firm, and Spider lost her certificate after three years of sometimes bitter wrangling. However, there is a happy ending to the story, as The Spider is now fitted with wooden booms, and has been successfully measured.
As the we move into the summer weather, we are planning to hold some 'off the cuff' 36” sailing and training sessions on certain Fridays. All are welcome. Please check the Club notice-board for details.

VANE SKIPPERS PLEASE NOTE GMY&BC WILL NOT ACCEPT JOINT SKIPPERS IN CLUB EVENTS

David Bell is searching for Zerlina

David Parkinson is trying to find out what happened to Arthur Levison’s last A class yacht Zerlina K875. The last he heard of her she was at Gosport with Roy Fogarty who had teamed up with Arthur after David had got married and returned to Fleetwood to live prior to him emigrating to Canada. Records do show she remained in Gosport.
He would be very interested to find out if Zerlina still exists. She was in fact built for David by Arthur and he had a lot of input into her design.
Thanks David Bell tel 02083992955, email david.j3.bell@bt.com

.
AS IT WAS
Norman Hatfield’s Pictures at Gosport
David Bell has written a biography of Norman Hatfield for the VMYG Turning Pole magazine and has sent us some of Norman’s pictures (shown below) for our AS IT WAS feature.
356 Fantasy, 530 Scamp, 679 Aquila, 714 Samoena

LASER REPORT TROJAN CUP by Alec Powell

The first weekend of February is Trojan Cup weekend for the RC Laser Fleet at Gosport. The event consists of 12 races with 3 discards and is the only one-day event in the rclasergosport calendar. The event is not only a competitive affair but is also a good place to pick up a mid-winter tan if the weather for the past two years is anything to go by! This year 17 boats took to the water and, thanks to a consistent wind direction, sailed all 12 races on the same windward/leeward course. After the first four races, which were sailed on the A-rig, the top two positions were the same as the final standings in the 2007 event with Alec Powell in first followed by Darren Marston in second. The second group of four races saw skippers reach for their B rigs to cope with a strengthening breeze. After eight races Alec Powell had strengthened his lead, but was now followed in second place by someone who was as close in name as he was on the water – Alex Powell. By this stage Tim Davison had climbed above both Darren Marston and Chris Treagust to take third.
Following a break for lunch the final quartet of races were held and saw Denis Bookham hit championship-winning form with two firsts, a second and a fourth. Although it was too late to catch the leader he nevertheless took second place overall, which knocked Alex Powell back into third.

Trojan Cup 2008 Results
1st . Alec Powell 2nd Denis Bookham 3rd Alex Powell
4th Tim Davison 5th Darren Marston

IMPORTANT CHANGES TO RACING CALENDAR
Please note that the RC Laser meeting on 19 July has been cancelled as this clashes with a National Round at Poole on the same
weekend. Also the RC Laser round scheduled for 15th November has been changed to 22nd November.

VANE TUTORIAL by BILL GREEN

In 2007 we had a full year of Vane A competition with visitors and members taking part, some skippers also realised that the A Class were a bit heavy and sometimes a handful for our aging skippers and especially the Commodore’s knees.
When looking around for a suitable Class it became apparent that there were several 36R’s in the Club and Mervyn Cook, Vane 36R Class Captain, set up a few trial events which were very popular and successful. To start the 2008 season and to ensure that all skippers understood the Rules and the spirit of Vane sailing a Vane tutorial was arranged.
We were extremely fortunate that Bill Green from Bourneville was prepared to come down and hold a tutorial in the Club House followed by demonstrations on the lake in the afternoon. Bill went through the Rules answered questions and left us with his 5 “P” manta. Poor Preparation Produces P… Poor Performance. Ray Baker and Graham Wyeth spent the afternoon setting their yachts up to Bills’ instructions and then watching the result proving a very positive demonstration of what could and could not be achieved with a little skill and a very very great deal of knowledge from Bill, Graham and Ray.

GMY&BC Web sites
www.gosportmybc.org. uk
www.rclaser gosp ort.org.uk

54 Guildford Drive
Chandlers Ford
Hants
SO 53 3PT
Phone:02380 255896
Email:roberto.hobbs@virgin.net

GOSPORT IS THE TRADITIONAL HOME OF THE A CLASS

And a safe haven for rclaser,IOM, 36”, Marblehead, Scale and Vintage Yachts and Boats

Just to keep the continuity going we include a picture of Graham Wyeth on the rear page this time together with Ray Baker. Taken at Bill Green's Vane Tutorial

NEWS FROM THE BOAT HOUSE
1 The Committee is still investigating how to improve the storage space in the Boat House.
2 Skippers please note that ONLY IOM’S with a berth may be left in the boat house.
3 RA skippers, who do not have a berth, please note that leaving your yacht rigged after a Thursdays practise ready for a Sundays event is not allowed. Problems are caused with access especially if there is a Laser or 36” event on the Saturday, also your yachts may become damaged with other yacht and skipper movements on the Saturday.
4 We have installed a new battery charger
5 We have a certified measuring box for the 36”
6 Mike has made two new lids for the measuring tank, these look elegant and are easier and safer to lift than the old one piece lid
7 The waste pumps have been blocking recently (smelly ) and new fat traps are to be fitted by the Council to remove the problem
8 The weather station has been re-installed by Arnie and John Smith.

2.4 GHz ‘ers BEWARE!!! Or at least be careful

Don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that 2.4 isn’t the best thing since sliced bread, although I do like my slice of bread! BUT!!!
One of our members received some interesting information about 2.4 being used elsewhere, especially Futaba. There may have been a rogue batch or simply an odd few that didn’t seem to have been correctly factory programmed such that more than one transmitter would try to control one receiver/model. I am not sure of the extent of the problem but this is more of a warning that if you are using 2.4 and you think you are going potty because you seem to be getting interference when the theory is that you can’t get interference, just bear this in mind. The solution as I understand it was that the offending transmitters were returned to Ripmax who got them properly programmed – problem solved. John Smith.

Autumn 2007 NEWSLETTER

MYA President Derek Priestely, discusses the black art of vane setting at the MYA Workshop

GOSPORT MODEL
YACHT & BOAT
CLUB. Web sites
www.gosportmybc.org.uk
www.rclasergosport.org.uk

Inside this Issue

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE
FRANK PANKHURST - A TRIBUTE
COMMITTEE BUSINESS
AGM and HOW TO GET THERE
THE LAKE MAINTAINANCE
MONEY, MONEY, MONEY ??
36” ALIVE & SAILING
RA PRACC REPORT
FOOTY REPORT
LASER UPDATE
MYA WORKSHOP
PUBLICITY OFFICERS COMMENTS

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE

Unfortunately, I must start my comments with some sad news. One of our dear longstanding life members, Frank Pankhurst recently passed away. See Tribute to Frank Pankhurst. Our thoughts and condolences go out to Frank’s family as well as to Denis Bookham following the tragic death of his son.

We were handed a started model of HMS Bulldog by the widow of a prolific modeller recently with a number of back issue of Model Boats magazine. HMS Bulldog is, I believe, a 1:48 scale comprising hull, a variety of fittings and what would certainly look to be a full set of plans. Whilst the lady in question is not looking for any proceeds of sale for herself, she would like us to try and sell the model and send the proceeds to a suitable charity. So if you want to see it, take a look in the boatstore and if you are interested in buying, please let a committee member know of your interest and bear in mind that the funds will be going to a good cause.

There will inevitably be some further mention within this newsletter about the club’s forthcoming AGM. Please make a note in your diaries to attend as we are booking a venue which should be more than big enough to handle a large number. Also please start to consider in readiness for proposing successors to Ken Shell as Vice Commodore and John Storey as Treasurer. Both Ken and John have given massive service to the club but feel that they need to look after themselves a little more, hence their not being able to make themselves available for nomination this year.

Whilst we have tried to respond to a variety of comments, and especially where complaints have been addressed to the committee, we hope to have taken these on board for future consideration. These especially surround the publicity of the Recycled Boat Race in August, essentially organised by the council and for which the date was agreed at short notice. We will be trying to get a date agreed for next year so that it can be known to be a part of our club calendar. Also, we have learned some lessons from trying to amalgamate, in this case, the Footy event with an open day. We would not intend to let that happen again. Sorry.

Despite the fact that I believe that what we have tried to achieve has been in both the club’s and our sport’s interests, that might not have been fully shared and appreciated by everyone, so additionally you should please consider who you wish to nominate and appoint as club commodore for 2008 as I shall not be seeking re-election.

Please note that whilst formal dates have not yet been agreed with the council, there will be some work being done in relation to fendering which will necessitate the water level being lowered. We are hoping that it will start around the middle of October but please keep alert to any notices issued as soon as we have any detail. I will post information on the club website also.

It remains only for me at this stage to thank all members for their continued support and to thank your committee members for all of their efforts on your behalf.

A TRIBUTE TO FRANK PANKHURST This months feature of “As it was” has come from Frank Pankhurst, who has memories of Gosport from the 1920’s and probably before when he was involved with his cousin. Frank has called his reminiscencies “A Glance Astern”. Over to Frank:- The wake astern gives a glimpse of the passage made and what has transpired, the ripples, the eddies and indeed the waves have tales to tell. The horizon is there just as it is ahead accept that what is past conjures up memories instead of mystery that lies ahead. Ah’, memories, I have many going back to the 1920’s when the lake was better known at that time as the Cockle Pond, and to the west was the Horse Field though I can’t remember seeing any horses there. Gosport Council no doubt anxious to improve the towns image renamed the former The Model Yacht Lake and the latter Walpole Park. Model yachting was very popular and by the mid 20’s model yacht racing was well and truly established under the auspices of the GMYC. The club was very much a “gentlemans” coterie, and the members were very much “looked up to” and respected. Be that as it may the events attracted a lively interest from local residents many of whom if unable to be their earlier would be at the lake in the evening.	Frank aged 11 with his yacht
The National and International were, in the 20’s and at least the early 30’s I believe, to be the sole function and domain of GMYC. As a youngster I was intrigued to hear the different dialects especially from a very ginger headed gentleman from Ireland with his all green model. The National attracted many boats from all over the country and the event took a whole week of hard sailing to find the Champion who would represent the Nation the following week in the International. This too had a large following for there were models from most of the European Nations and also the USA! The skipper/owner of the American boat was quite a popular figure and easily recognizable, striding around the lake in his plus-fours which he invariably wore. A smart character and typically a “yank” with his exuberant, but pleasant, self confidence. Whilst he never won the coveted trophy he did on one occasion challenge the British to sail in open water. I believe this was attempted off the sea wall between Fort Blockhouse and Fort Gilkicker. I have no recollection of the outcome however. The British defender incidentally was probably Mr. Jones or Mr. Daniels my memory inclines to tell me for they were the prominent rival twosome for the honour each year. Are yes, I have many happy memories of Gosport and regarded it was my second home. I lived in London at Plumstead a district of the then Borough of Woolwich. Gosport was my fathers birthplace as was his brothers and sisters. My father worked for the Southern Railway and so there were free passes and privilege tickets enabling frequent visits to Gosport at reduced fair.I would stay with my Uncle and Aunt and as the former had a small yacht we would have trips out in the Solent and Spithead.
I was quite familiar with Cowes, Ryde and Sea View the latter very popular with me with its nice sandy beach. My Uncle was very experienced and had sailed around the world in a fully rigged sailing ship by the time he was eighteen. He served many years in the Royal Navy and was a proficient navigator. When he and I were on our own in his boat he would teach me to sail the boat, he was strict but not unkindly so he would explain my errors and there consequences. But woe betide me if I allowed a flutter on the trailing edge of the main sheet-he would positively growl!. Under his guidance and watchful eye I was able to navigate quite a bit of the Solent and was able to bring the boat into Portsmouth Harbour under sail and/or motor to the moorings, pick-up the mooring buoy with the boat hook and make fast on the moorings. I was about twelve when I was able to do this. I should say at this point it wasn’t always calm sailing and I knew what it was to be sea-sick—but it never put me off and I would go with him every time if he would take me. These were usually week-end trips. On other days you would find me around the lake and when I was about ten or eleven I became the proud owner of a model racing yacht! My father bought it for me from my Uncle who had purchased it, I think from a member of GMYC, for his son, my cousin. Some ten years my senior he had sailed this model in his school days but had then gone to sea. Through the Gravesend Training School he had joined the Union Castle S.S. Line on passages to South Africa. Then he became fascinated with the yachting world and among the yachts he served on was the “Westward”, a schooner but raced with the famous “J Class”. The model had fallen into disuse and I had my longing eyes on it. To say I was overjoyed when my Father bought it for me would be a great understatement. Above right the yacht Blue Serenity in Canada. Below a few of Franks photographs	Franks Cousin Tremynmeer William Pankhurst Gosport 1928/30
I sailed it as often as I could, in London, at Blackheath and at Clapham Common, but as much as possible at Gosport. I was told the model had been built in Camper and Nicholson yard at Gosport. It was planked and ribbed and had three sets of sails each with their respective mast. Of these sets two were Gaff-rig and one Bermuda with spinnakers. Steering was of the Braine system which I found worked well and with practice and a few errors and adjustments I could often manage a straight beat against the wind. Of course on “skittish” days when the wind was variable this became difficult. The model was 54” long without the bow sprit and weighted around 20 lbs. I only used the Bermuda rig and dispensed with the bow sprit. I continued to use the Braine steering system though I eyed some of the models using somewhat complex and what seemed to me complicated systems but I reasoned they did not have much advantage over what I was using. The Vane hadn’t arrived when I was most active. As the time of World War II came I became less able to sail. After the war my life style had changed considerably though I still made spasmodic trips to Gosport and visits to the lake intrigued me with the marvel of the new Vane steering systems, but I was not able to get back to sailing just these irregular and intermittent trips when sometimes their was no-one sailing and the boat house was locked up, mind you, that was not often. These were the 50’s, 60’s and then in the late 70’s I was able to make more frequent trips to Gosport and became friendly with Arthur Scholar, and gradually I became more and more involved. During the 80’s I made many trips both my rail and car and very nearly bought a house which came up for sale and was in fact the nearest house to the lake but unfortunately I was unable to arrange the sale of my London home at that time. During the late 70’s through the 80’s and the early 90’s I was at Gosport lake side as much as I could manage, sometimes staying overnight and when the Vane A Nationals were taking place I booked in wherever I could for the week. During Vane week I helped wherever I could with calling-up the boats for starting, checking at the finish, and wherever needed. I did attend some of the radio events held at the lake but was only a spectator however I was very impressed by the skills shown by the skippers. This brings me back to the model I previously mentioned and sailed in the 20’s and 30’s. Well the war took its toil while I was away in the RAF and my father had died just before the “balloon went up”, my mother’s house got damaged forcing her to move and after over six years the model was in a sorry state and had somethings missing. The sails had rotted and were quite useless. To cut a long story short by the late 70’s I had a young grandson fast growing up. He, with his mother and father were now living in Canada but apparently but he had not forgotten seeing the model yacht stored away in my home some years before and enquired about it. Upon asking him if he would like it? I noticed his eyes gleamed when he said “yes” and so I set to work to restore it. Many of the fittings were missing and decided to modernize the boat, and as the lakes that I had seen in Canada were natural (no nice surrounding path) radio control was essential. Paul, my grandson, sails it as often as he can with most of the others that use the lake who are mostly scale modellers. Well that is it, except to keep looking ahead and a sharp look out. Frank.

The yacht Blue Cerentiy in Canada and a few of Frank's photographs

COMMITTEE BUSINESS
Membership State:
It is with great regret that the club announce the death of Frank Pankhurst. His funeral was at Eltham on Tuesday 4.9.07. John Storey represent the Club. A donation will be made by the Club to a preferred charity of Frank’s family. It is only just recently that Frank has been unable to attend the Club’s AGMs and he was most generous in contributions to the Club – the Club has lost a valued member.
Jacquie Cook circulated the latest superb membership spread sheet she has produced. This spread sheet will work in conjunction with the latest renewal of membership form that was also produced to the cttee. The cttee wishes to thank Jacque on the production of such useful forms.
Application for Membership. The following membership has been ratified: David James; John Gayler; Frank Muscroft.
Financial State: JSt reported on the state of the Club’s finances, detailing the receipts and payments since the last meeting. Overall, the Club continues to be in a healthy financial state.
Committee’s Roles and Responsibilities. A Master Set of R&R is held by the Secretary.
Clubhouse/Boathouse: Anemometer JSm reported on his enquiries at Eastbourne’s meteorological shop and recommended a wired Anemometer,
as the wire-less versions are reported to be just as liable to maintenance problems, if not more so. It was agreed to earmark £ 200.00 towards a replacement Anemometer.
Berthing issues. In the course of reviewing the PA Trolley repairs, it was hoped that a much smaller version could be built, thus releasing the space currently occupied by the PA trolley to make a further A Berth.
Graham Wyeth has made a special request to the cttee to obtain a berth for his yacht. The cttee recognises the huge amount of support that Graham has given to the Club over the years in monetary and sailing terms and this is very much appreciated. However the whole cttee were in agreement that no special request could be made in the circumstances and that Graham’s name would be entered on the berthing waiting list along side the rest of the Club Members.
2007/08 Sailing Programme:
The cttee has received several letters of complaint and members have voiced their opinion that this year’s Open Day was not as successful as was wished for. The cttee have reconsidered the action of holding a competition on the same day as an Open Day and have decided that in future no such competitions will be organised. The cttee wishes to apologise for any upset this may have caused members this year. Letters will be sent to the members who wrote in. It was agreed that we would host the Re-cycled Boat Race again this year, on Thurs 9 Aug 07 at 2.00 pm. Further agreed that JSt would obtain 3 prizes for this event, within a total of £ 30:00. This event again was a great success. In future any extra events that have not been printed in the Club Sailing Diary, such as the Re- cycled Boat race, will be announced on the notice board prior to the date of the event.
WEED CUT, This was successfully completed this month after a tremendous spate of weed growth, two skips were required to take away the debris. many thanks to all who took part,it was a 08-00 to 18-00 hours job. The buoys had been removed earlier by Arnie Pease, who replaced them a few days later.
MYA Business:
(a) The club advert will be placed in the MYA Year Book as well as the information that the club sails class “36” yachts.
(b) MYA AGM details to be placed in the next edition of the Club Newsletter
(c ) JS contacted J.Mayle re Met and Southern fixtures.
(d) Richard Rowan has been recommended by the cttee to be nominated for the Syan Trophy.
. Council Business and Long Term Projects.
(a) Notice Boards. The wording has been agreed and three notice boards will be installed in the near future. The GBC have
been reminded of the situation.
(b) Fenders: Alan Gibson has advised us there is to be an on site meeting with contractors for the installation of more fendering.
A lower water level is required by the contractor to enable them to carry out this work. The drop in water level will affect the sailing that takes place on the pond and members are asked to note the dates that have been recommended for the proposed work. October 15th – 28th are the days that have been suggested and Alan Gibson is to be advised of this by JS.
Safety Issues:
First Aid Box It was agreed that we would purchase a clearly labelled First Aid box and contents, to be placed on the Toilet wall, so that it is accessible whenever the Boat House is open. A First Aid Box is now in place.
IOM Class Captain: Discussion took place concerning the possibility of nominating Class Vice Captains to assist Class Captains. This idea has been adopted by the Laser Class successfully. Mervyn Cook has taken on the post of Class Captain for the 36” Vane Class.
Club Rules: JSt suggested several changes in the Club rules to bring them up to date with our present situation.
AGM Venue: JSt had enquired the cost of hiring Alverstoke Parish Centre for the AGM and reported that it would cost £ 40.00, with a small additional charge if we wanted the kitchen facilities too. He has made a no-cost provisional booking for the Centre. RH has visited this facility and agreed it would be very suitable for our AGM. Various other possible venues had been suggested by members, and after a short discussion, it was agreed that JSt would confirm the booking, and provide directions on how to get there, nearer the date.
JSt has produced the directions to enable members to find their way to the AGM venue.
Notice of Date of Next Cttee Meeting. GC had posted a notice on the Boat House lockers advising Members of the next Cttee Meeting, but it had not attracted any comment. Nevertheless, it was thought to be worth continuing.
India Trophy JSt had been in contact with Abhay More about his suggestion to present a cup to be raced for by juniors. JSt had explained that we very much appreciated his offer, but we are not short of Trophies and presently do not have any junior members. However, Abhay will be retiring in the not-too-distant future and returning to India. He would like to make a presentation of some sort to the Club. Abhay has thoroughly enjoyed his time with the Club and wishes to mark that with a Trophy, which hopefully will be for members' photos, to be presented for the first time in 2008.
.JC suggested that a trophy be awarded for the best photograph taken by a Club member of items of interest within the Club’s confines.
New Proposals for the AGM. Any new proposals are to be submitted by 18.11.07.

GETTING TO THE AGM VENUE :
St Mary’s Parish Centre
Green Road, Alverstoke, Gosport
PO12 2ET Click on the PostCode for a map

Those of you who usually come into Gosport via Lee-on-the Solent:
At the Cocked Hat Public House roundabout, turn right (3 o’clock) into Gomer Lane
(Finsbury Garage should be on your right)

Those of you who usually come into Gosport via the A.32 and Military Road :
At the Cocked Hat Public House roundabout, go ahead (12 o’clock) into Gomer Lane
(Finsbury Garage should be on your right)

Then take the 2nd Left into Western Way. Carry on until you come to a crossroads.
Go straight over (having looked both ways) into Village Road. Carry on until you reach a T junction (facing side of building
with white wall), turn Left, then a very short distance further, turn Right into Green Road.
The Parish Centre is on the left; recommend you park where you can in that vicinity.
Recommend taking this route; there appear to be shorter routes on the map, but these could lead into difficulty with one-way
streets, no right turns, etc.

Those of you who wish to come direct from the Model Yacht Club
On leaving South Street Car Park, turn left onto South Street.
After the “Give Way” junction (into Foster Road), take 3rd Left into Anglesey Road.
Take 6th Right into Green Road, leaving the Church to your left.
The Parish Centre is on the right, opposite the Church; recommend you park where you can in that vicinity.
Thanks to John Storey for the directions.

Facts and Figures concerning Your Lakes
This section has been included because with so many new members some of you will not be aware of how fortunate we are with the facilities and the help the Club receives from the Gosport Borough Council.
The lakes at Walpole Park are unique having a flat concrete path on all sides; the large lake is 230m long and 54m wide the smaller one being 110m long and 55m wide and typically 1/1 .5m deep holding approximately 3.5 million gallons or 15000 Tons of salt water in total. The salt water is provided by Haslar Creek and the lakes water level can be controlled by a valve, however topping up the lakes require high tides, generally over 4.0 combined with a low barometric pressure.
The lakes are designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest and Ramsar site ( SSSI, SPA ) Wetlands of International Importance water fowl habitat convention
at Ramsar Iran 1971. The shrimps colonising the pond have secured its future use as a model yachting lake. English Nature monitor the water and together with Gosport Borough Council and the Club manage the Walpole Lakes.
Weed is sometimes a problem, the lake can be dragged or harvested but cannot be treated. Keeping out the sunlight has worked well in recent years. A full weed cut requires the Club to marshal the lake area and erect barriers on all pathways. The Council provide the Weed Cutting Boat the skips and the Contractors at considerable cost. We make a donation to help.
The picture below shows the extent of the equipment necessary to manage the lake when we have a surge in weed growth.

The Committee wish to thank all the skippers who turned out to help with the weed cut and the removal
/replacement of the buoys.
It was a long day for the volunteers and all the Club members should be aware of what efforts are sometimes needed to keep our Club functioning.

MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY, MONEY?????

Have I got your attention yet ,or perhaps no one is bothering to read this?
This is your Treasure typing – the AGM is not too far off (Sunday 9th December for those who have forgotten), when we shall decide on how much next year’s Subs will be - amongst other things. One of the “other things” will be my proposal that the discount on Subs under Rule 9 (d) will only be allowed to those who pay their subs in advance, ie by 31st December. Rule 9 (a) says that subs become due on 1st January, so why have we always allowed a discount to those who pay a month late??
You will have to decide whether or not to approve this particular rule change at the AGM.
I haven’t discussed 2008s Subs figures with the Committee yet, and these are only my ideas, but I am thinking on the lines of recommending that Subs remain the same (ie £ 30 pa) with a £ 10 discount (making it £ 20) for those who pay in advance (ie by 31st December 2007).
We have 124 paying members at present; if 75% of them take advantage of this generous discount (assuming all the above is approved) and 25% miss the boat and pay full whack, that will give us more than sufficient income to run our Club’s business for 2008.
But, if you think this is a good idea – or even don’t think much of it – you’ll need to come and vote on the subject on 9 Dec.

36” VANE RACING RETURNS TO GOSPORT

For the first time for some years, free sailed 36r’s are racing at Gosport
again. On a perfect early Autumn day, six boats assembled for a club practice day, prior to the three day race series later in the year.
The fleet included two Alex Austin designs, ‘Deductshun’ and ‘Extenshun’; Bruce Prole’s historic ‘Spider’, three times winner of the 36r championship in the sixties; and Shaun Wyeth brought his beautiful John Gale built, mahogany planked ‘Realistic’.
Seven races were sailed. The racing was leisurely, but correct, and we even stopped for a morning coffee break. The ‘Realistic’ showed the fleet a clean pair of heels in most races, slicing up to windward, and sailed to perfection by Shaun and his son, Lewis. The Alex Austin boats of Jacque Cook and Robert Hobbs carried their sail well, giving them an advantage at times on
the stronger wind legs. And the elegant Sykes designed ‘Spider’ showed her class with some stunning downwind legs, straight as a dye and avoiding either bank. Despite being the oldest boat sailing, with a more user-friendly vane gear she could also have been a force to contend with to windward.
The Vane 36r series will take place on Saturday 17th November, and Saturday 1st December. Even if you haven’t got a boat do come along and join us. We guarantee it’ll be fun, and there is always plenty for everyone to do at a vane sailing event.

Following the first successful Club Day earlier in the month, six boats found themselves racing on the 29th September in the introductory series. This time, the weather was less than kind, with an almost non-existent, faltering wind, and steady rain setting in.
Motorway glitches also prevented Anthony Warren and Max Buttimer from arriving in time for the first starts. Among the six boats were Derek Kitcheners newly acquired ‘Batman 2’ design, John Gale bought his lovely and very fast Peter Dunkling ‘Genie’, and Graham Wyeth raced his exquisitely built mahogany planked ‘Realistic’. Racing continued until the wind died
completely during the ninth board, leaving boats rotating gently in the middle of the lake.
However, by general consensus the results will count towards the series. Graham won by a single point from John Gale, with vane ‘rookie’ Peter Fothergill in a creditable third place with John’s Peter Dunkling design boat.
The next 36r race day will be on the 17th November, when we are all looking forward to a more tangible breeze!
Mervyn

Al, Robert, Jacquie, Mervyn & Bruce, Shaun took the photo

30 RADIO A CLASS YACHTS at THE PRACC

	Lynda (centre) and David Munro enjoy the Gosport weather. Lynda & David set up the PRACC in memory of Lynda’s father. Trish Raishbrooke (left) studies the form in the press.
	Mike Tattersall and John Smith did us all proud at the recent event. The sailing of 3 fleets went like clockwork with the results appearing as if by magic. Gosport certainly knows how to run an event and it is this quality of work that keeps skippers returning to Gosport to sail with us over and over again.

FIRST UK FOOTY CHAMPIONSHIPS A SUCCESS!

29 skippers attended the first UK Championships for this exciting
new low cost Class.
The size or the value certainly did not stop the racing from being very exciting.
The two photographs show the skippers and their support crews in attendance with sippers ages ranging from 7 to 77, how’s that for a new starter
Class in the UK.
Yet another first for Gosport Model Yacht and Boat Club

The above photographs shows the skippers at the end of the racing, Angus Richardson, new Class Captain for the Footy is in the wheelchair on the right. Extreme left is Roger Stollery who has championed the Rules for this Class worldwide.

LASER REVIEW by DAVID EDWARDS
The Gosport RC Laser fleet continues to go from strength to strength with new boats appearing on the water all the time. The Thursday evening series was particularly well supported this year with up to 14 boats on the water enjoying some great racing. A last minute invitation from the Bursledon Regatta race committee attracted 10 Gosport boats to race on the river Hamble as part of the regatta celebrations. Despite a certain amount of chaos, 6 fun and rather informal races ensued with the skippers all standing on the end of the Jolly Sailor public house pontoon (no-one worked out how to hold a pint and a transmitter at the same time!) On the national circuit Gosport boats have achieved some very creditable results with Dennis Bookham and Stuart Willes achieving 10th and 16th respectively at the Nationals in Eastbourne. In the ‘Marine Modelling International’ sponsored Travellers Trophy, 3 Gosport skippers managed to fill 3rd, 4th , and 5th places at the Poole event – well done to Chris Treagust, Dennis Bookham and Stuart Willes.

As we go to press, the first meetings of the autumn series have already been sailed with the fleets starting to get bigger and more competitive. Hopefully this trend will continue and we will be enjoying the 20+ boat fleets that we had last winter.

MYA WORKSHOP at GOSPORT 40 Skippers attend

Roger Stollery ,left, demonstrates
moulding and wire bending techniques
throughout the day in the boat house.

Peter Stollery, right, MYA Chairman,
leads the outside sessions of setting up the yacht before racing and practising the start, probably the most important part of a race.

Brad Gibson talks us through the concepts
of sail shape prior to demonstrating
how he makes the all important power house of our yachts.

Tony Edwards , MYA
Vice Chairman, outlines
the importance
of the standing rigging
before discussing how
to get the sail shape
right for differing
wind conditions.

It is becoming a regular feature to have a picture of a “Wyeth” on this page. In th is issue we must congratulate Shaun with a little help from Graham on winning the Yachting Monthly Cup during the A Class Nationals at Fleetwood this year. This is the second time that Shaun has managed to win this splendid trophy .

Publicity Officer’s Comments
Hi all, this is the last Newsletter before our AGM and you should be looking to find new Officers for your Committee, I will not be standing for Radio Sailing Secretary next year. Mike Tattersall has taken to the results section like a duck to water and although I have staggered on trying to keep up with him I am a long way behind. Unfortunately this type of activity, spreadsheets, lists of numbers or even accounts do not interest me at all, I am happy to carry on with the Newsletters if there are no other offers for this post, I will carry on with the Council liaison until told otherwise.
The Club advert has been placed in the MYA Year Book Diary to encourage skippers to visit and sail with us. We have accepted a number of National Events for 2008, these will appear shortly in our ever expanding Sailing Programme. The success of this Programme is attracting additional members and visitors who wish to enjoy our facilities and friendly but very competitive sailing. There is only one thing better than sailing model yachts with like minded people and that is sailing competitively to the Rules with everyone doing their turns.
Talking about turns how about a regular supply of articles that I can put into the new folder on my email system, called Gosport Newsletter Items, a few photographs would also help. Your input will make the Newsletter more interesting and will save me scratching around looking for content.
The Gosport Club is probably, no really is, the best venue for model sailing in the UK, we have a full radio programme for many classes, we have scale and also our Heritage events for the A Class, Vintage and 36” which will maintain Gosport’s rightful position on the UK model yachting scene for many years to come. There are very few lakes in the UK where free sailing can take place and ours was the first built and remains the best. To help spread the load the Class Captain concept has worked well and the proposed introduction of Vice Captains for the Classes will spread this load further, so please let the Committee know who you would like to promote your Class. P.S. Please ensure that you get their agreement before submitting their name.
As many of you will know I am giving up the Publicity Officer post on the MYA Council after many enjoyable years service, I encourage you all to support the MYA by taking out affiliation and hopefully a subscription for The Acquaint. My own belief is that all Gosport members should support the MYA. The MYA AGM is at Dickens Heath Primary School on 24th November at 10.00 a.m. in the morning there will be a Trade Fair with many major suppliers in attendance, a workshop on setting-up your yacht and the now famous MYA free lunch.
Robert

SPRING & SUMMER 2007 NEWSLETTER

COMMODORE’S MESSAGE

Welcome to the latest edition of the Club Newsletter. Our aim is that this should have been distributed to you in accordance with the method you have indicated a preference for. I shall also be looking to publish a version on the Newsletters page of the club website ( www.gosportmybc.org.uk ) so that those of you with access to the internet can feed back views and opinions. For those of you without such access, please don’t be shy, although your committee naturally much prefer constructive comment.

Whilst there will doubtless be more detailed comment under some of the various articles, I just wanted to touch on a few key points.

In this Issue

Committee Business

Boat House Review

RA News & As It Was

Club Clothing

Footy Championships

AGM News & Vane Reports

Well Done Graham!

Special points of Interest
Children & Safety at The Lakes

Candid camera

We have now agreed a framework with the council to enable us to control and operate the sluice valve for topping up the water levels. There is a laid down process so if you want to become involved, please indicate your willingness so that you can be made aware of the specific requirements as it is not just a question of opening and closing the valve whenever we want to.

There will be more detailed comment about frequency control and hopefully you will have noticed recently the introduction of putting your own peg on the board as a TEMPORARY (on the day it is being used) exchange/replacement for the frequency peg. One of the aims of this is to enable anyone turning up to establish who might be on certain frequencies if there becomes a need to request possible changes. Whilst I would encourage all members to try and have a selection of crystals, there will still be occasions when all yours seem to be in use but hopefully a spirit of co-operation will exist such that if you are asked if you have any others available you might change to one that is not in use at the time, thus freeing up a slot for someone else.

Membership numbers continue to increase and I would welcome more feedback from members, old and new, about their views on this matter. I have received comments from two members who feel that the number of members is too large and whilst I do not contend that this means there are around 120 or so who don’t think the number is too large, there are a number of factors that need to be taken into consideration.

My final comments in this issue are addressed both to committee members for their support and efforts and club members alike. These are to thank everyone for their continued support and spirit of encouragement such that we are still commented upon as a friendly club.

DO READ ON.

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COMMITTEE BUSINESS

Membership State: Jacque Cook forwarded an up dated version of the spreadsheet detailing relevant information of all our members. This information will only be used for the efficient running of the club and the Data Protection requirements will be strictly adhered too. There are 125 members of whom 7 are Life Members.
The total membership number was again considered and the cttee agreed that there was no problem with the present total. The Commodore commented that it was better to welcome new members into the club rather than having individuals sailing on the ponds who were not members and perhaps causing problems that we could not address. This item of membership numbers will be discussed at every meeting.

Clubhouse/Boathouse:
The cttee wishes to thank both Arnie Peace and Ken Shell for the considerable amount of work they have undertaken in trying to repair the wind vane and the cttee decided that because of the constant break down of the wind vane and the safety issues in trying to mend it, it was the time to purchase a modern electronic equivalent.
The cttee decided the following process for the berthing fees and allocation: The fees for berthing will be paid directly to the Treasurer John Storey. The maintenance of the berthing facilities will be carried out by the House Officer Mick Thomas. Any issues or problems if they arise, concerning allocation of berths etc will be considered and a decision made by the whole cttee. “A/ RA” Berth Waiting List In Order of Application (As at 20 May 2007)
David Moody, Bruce Prole, Derek Kitchener, Mike Tattersall, Graham Wyeth, and Arthur Lancaster

Note: When a Berth becomes available, it will be offered strictly in the order in which applications were made. Please do not assume a space is available until you have been so advised by the Hon Treasurer.

Club chairs Brian Leighton has kindly supplied some plastic chairs to replace the existing old rusty items that are stored in the Boat house. Brian has also kindly agreed to dispose the rusty chairs.

Maintainance The alarm will have its yearly maintenance carried out 25.5.07. The sewage pump maintenance will be carried out 21.5.07

MYA Business: The MYA Workshop on Saturday 31.3.07 was a resounding success at the club. MYA members took full advantage of the expert advice given in the areas of sailing making; boat electronics; construction; setting a boat up for sailing; start line techniques; and Vane sailing just to name a few. The cttee wishes to thank all the experts who helped make it an event to remember.

Council Business and Long Term Projects. The sluice gate is now in full working condition and all the necessary protective railings and new means of access to the sluice valve are in place. The total cost of this work was £1688:00, at the next meeting with the GBC the Club is to offer a donation of £400:00 to cover some of the cost involved in the work carried out on the sluice gate. Notice Boards. The wording has been agreed and three notice boards will be installed in the near future. Fenders. The further fenders around the sides of the pond are to be installed. This will be an ongoing job depending on the materials available. The cttee would prefer the north side of the large lake to be treated first.

Safety Issues. As there have been reports of members slipping on the grass bank that leads in towards the Boat House GBC have been approached to see whether a set of steps could be provide. The answer was that this was not possible as it would mean a ramp, which would be too steep to satisfy the legal requirements for access for disadvantage people. Another possible solution would be to put a barrier around the area and thereby make people take the safer route via the existing pathway.

Tug /Sailing Events at Gosport.

John Storey suggested that the club host an event that would be for Model Thames Barges and as there was a list in the Club House that contained names of people who were interested in scale models the cttee felt the time was right to try and restart the Scale Section. To date we are looking for a Scale Secretary as the post has been vacant for the last two years.
Tony Skraga will be asked if he would be interested in taking up this post as his name appeared on top of the list. Several Club members have Tugs and are interested in towing or steering events.

2008 Sailing Programme. Fleetwood Club will possibly not hold any Vane A events in the future and the cttee agreed that Gosport would support any Vintage and Vane events to ensure that the classes are still represented in the racing calendar.
Gosport will also host the following events; National Vane, Marble Head, Vane A, Met/Southern, PRACC, Laser T/T and Forces IOM. as well as the usual programme for our own club events.

Frequency Pegs. There has been an increase in a clash of frequencies, the cttee has considered the following procedure to help ease the problem. Every member will have there own name peg. This is to be placed on the peg board once the frequency peg has been removed. After sailing the frequency peg is to be re exchange for the name peg. This action will show if any member has taken the frequency peg away and not returned it to the peg board.
The cttee also wishes to reminded members that personal frequency crystals are not an automatic right for that skipper to use that particular frequency - there are too many skippers now sailing to have that luxury. All skippers are recommended to have several sets of crystals if they wish to be able to sail at any time.

Sailing on a Thursday morning. Sailing on a Thursday morning is for all classes and all skippers. If any particular class wishes to organise a particular class sailing morning it is up to the Class Captain to organise.

The cttee wish to thank the Class Captains for their efforts and in assuring that if there are two classes sailing there are no interference between them.

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RADIO SAILING RESULTS By MIKE TATTERSALL

Gosport Model Yacht & Boat Club

Club Radio Championship 2007

Rank Name Total

1st          Colin Cooper        258
2nd         Mike Tattersall      204
3rd          Mike Nicholls        202
4th          David Edwards    201
5th          Alec Powell          192
6th          Brian Leighton     168
7th          Fred Body              157
8th          Denis Bookham 150
9th          John Hayston       146
10th        Richard Hanslip 141
11th        Stan Nutchey        113
12th        George Willes      111
13th        Robert Hobbs      103
14th        Chris Moore          98
15th        Chris Durant         96
16th        Chris Treagust     94
17th        Russ Clark           92
18th        John Park              91
19th        Arnie Peace          88
20th        John Smith           88

This table represents the relative scores of skippers in all the radio control classes that we sail up to the 27th May. So skippers, you have plenty of opportunities to improve your placing. We have over 70 skippers taking part in our events, some who race almost every week and some that just turn up occasionally, however they all enjoy the participation. We are very fortunate with our full race programme and having willing skippers to undertake Race Officer duties to enable the races to proceed in such a professional way.

Mike Tattersall has worked very hard this year to publish the results after each event and keep the results board up to date and very informative. Thanks Mike.

Congratulations to Colin Cooper for leading the field at this stage.

The other competitions running/ continuing this year are as follows

AM IOM
PM IOM
RA Class
RC Laser Autumn
RC Laser Winter
RC Laser Summer
RC Laser Spring
RC Laser Overall

Throughout the year there are individual Cup /Trophy events that stand alone but also count in the over all championships .

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INSIDE THE BOAT HOUSE

We are so fortunate to have a house officer with so much skill and enthusiasm. Mike Thomas is a splendid chippy and is responsible for manufacturing the weighing frame, the sail box racks, the A class trolleys and the intervening IOM support systems. This has radically improved our boat storage and shows off our yachts in a safe and secure manner. It’s no wonder other clubs are looking to copy our efforts. Thanks Mike for the hard work and also to Ken Shell for dreaming up and producing the prototype for the IOM support system.

The two pictures below show a IOM moved out on the frame for access and rigging and in the safely stowed position between the A Class.

The two pictures on the right show the A class trolleys and the overall neatness of the boat house with the additional berths.