St Ives Sailing Club History
Established in 1972
Mighty oaks from little acorns grow
At first there was a group of sailors with menagerie of dinghies sailing in the bay on Saturdays. Sometimes they organised an impromptu race, usually down to Hayle bar buoy. The first one home being the winner. It was all just for fun. After a while, it was decided to form a club.
The History of St Ives Sailing Club
1972 10th November
Enthusiasm for a St. Ives sailing club
Some 130 sailing enthusiasts packed St. Ives Guildhall council chamber for a meeting to consider the formation of a St. Ives Sailing Club. There was a unanimous vote that a club should be formed with comprehensive facilities – a slipway, a dinghy pen and a club house.
After officers and committee had been elected specific proposals, prepared in advance of the meeting, were discussed. Mr. Tom Trevorrow, who presided, was elected Commodore.
Mr Tom Trevorrow told the meeting that the obvious place for the slipway and the dinghy pen was Porthgwidden and the clubhouse would have to be in the same area. The possible availability of part of the Porthgwidden car park for dinghies was a matter that would have to be discussed with the Borough Council.
The intention was that the club, as an amenity to the town, should put up no financial or social barriers to membership. A modest annual subscription of £2 or £3 was envisaged. The club would not be limited to a specific class of sailing craft.
During the meeting 40 people signified by a show of hands that they owned or intended to acquire sailing craft and were anxious to sail from St. Ives. Mr. David Phillips, who was elected rear commodore (sailing), said that various sites had been inspected.
There were only two dinghy clubs on the north coast of Cornwall – at Padstow and Newquay, “ and neither have the bay we have here.” At Balmaluz the car park area was a ready – made dinghy pen. The main problem would be the building of a slipway.
The meeting discussed at length the possibility of the venture receiving a grant aid from the Ministry of the Environment or other sources.
Officers Elected
Tom Trevorrow (Commodore)
John Perry (Vice Commodore)
David Phillips (Rear Commodore sailing)
John Couch (Rear Commodore cruising)
G Matley-Jones (Rear Commodore administration)
Ron Banforth (Secretary)
Maurice Black (Treasurer)
1973 January
Council support for St. Ives Sailing Club
St. Ives Borough Council’s Harbour and Beaches Committee last week agreed that the council should assist in any way they could, the establishment of St. Ives Sailing Club which expects to be operating during the coming season.
The meeting was attended by officers of the newly formed club and was addressed by its commodore, Mr. Tom Trevorrow, a member of the harbour and beaches committee.
Mr. Trevorrow outlined a suggested scheme for a club headquarters and dinghy pen in the Balmaluz area.
The Borough Treasurer, Mr. Malcolm Furneaux, said there was very little chance of the council’s being able to give the club any direct financial help as the council’s capital works allocation has already been exceeded.
But it was agreed that the council would be in a position to help in connection with sites for club premises. Mr. Dorvil Jones thought the club would have “beneficial repercussions on the quality of the resort.”
Regatta discussed
At a recent meeting of the club the organisation of a regatta this year, as well as the acquisition of premises, was discussed. It was decided that founder members of the club should be eligible for a special badge.
Membership fees are now due and information about the club may be obtained from the secretary, Mr, R. Bamforth, Old Saltings, Porthmeor Road, St. Ives. Membership forms may also be obtained from Mr. J. Perry, Tregenna Gifts, Tregenna Hill, and Mrs. D. Stevens, Don’s Dairy, Tregenna Hill.
March
Meeting
Volunteers to build sailing club slipway.
Membership = £1.00
Subscriptions = £2.00 Adult, £3.00 Man and wife, £1.00 Junior,
0.50p Non sailing.
St. Ives Sailing Club
Which was formed recently will be holding a
Public Meeting
At The Guildhall, St. Ives
Tuesday, April 4th at 7-30 p.m.
All members are requested to attend and anyone else who is interested.
April
Sailing Club out for 100 members by this weekend
The St. Ives Sailing Club now have a membership of over 70 and are hoping they will have 100 members by April 30 – the last date to qualify as founder – members.
The club’s application for permission to build a dinghy pen and slipway in the Balmaluz area missed being dealt with at the April meeting of the Western Area Planning Committee and the club are hoping that the planning authority will pass the application at their next meeting on May 15.
The club will then meet on the following Tuesday to discuss final arrangements for the summer.
It is intended that the slipway and pen shall be in use for the summer season if the necessary planning consent is obtained. The borough council have already given their approval.
A form of application for this membership is published in this issue.
August
Forty-two sail in the bay on St. Ives Regatta Day
St. Ives boats: 1, “Comet” (R. Couch); 2, “Leo” (Redwing) D. Phillips; 3, Fireball
(R. Woolcock). Fishing boats: 1, Four Boys (William Noall); 2, Taurus.
Regatta continued
November
Porthwidden café premises for Sailing Club
By four votes to three on Monday, St. Ives Borough Council decided that as a temporary measure the St. Ives Sailing Club should be granted the use on licence, of the second floor of the council’s beach premises at Porhgwidden, for club headquarters.
As well as asking for the use of this accommodation, the club applied to the council for a grant of £1,000 to help build a slipway at Balmaluz. The council agreed in principle that subject to stated conditions, the club should receive a grant, but they did not fix a sum.
Their Ambition
The letter from the club’s secretary, Mr. Ron Bamforth, containing the club’s request for the use of the of the upper floor of the beach café premises, said that it was the club’s ultimate ambition to build a clubhouse on Porthgwidden car park, where the club are renting from the corporation a site for building and for a dinghy pen. The beach premises would enable them to really get started. At present they had no premises and no hope of getting any, Mr. Bamforth wrote.
Mr. Alan Harvey argued that it was “absolutely essential” that the corporation should retain possession of the property and he asked why the Sailing Club and not any other organisation in the town should be considered as its occupants. The sailing club must have been told that the property was available, he said.
Mr. Harvey feared that if the club got possession of the top part of the premises they might later claim the bottom half, so he asked members to support him and ensure that all Porthwidden Beach belonged to the public at large for all time.
Badly needed
Mr. Keith Slocombe thought that by acceding to the club’s request and helping it to get it under way immediately the council would be helping to provide badly needed facilities for local people and visitors which would help to lengthen the season.
He suggested that the club should be allowed take the premises on licence which would lapse when the club developed. This would no way jeopardise the use of the beach of local people or visitors.
Mr. Harvey said the council had “bent over backwards” to help the sailing club and it was not the council’s fault that the club had not got no farther forward. He moved that the accommodation should be used as a shop with a “quiet area” furnished with tables & chairs where visitors could write letters and cards.
Mr. Jim Thomas said that a shop was not an economic proposition. A shop, a café and a buffet had been tried without success and the possible use of the premises as a house had even been considered.
Mr. Dorvil Jones thought other organisations in the borough should be asked if they wanted the use of the premises, but the meeting finally voted in favour of the club.
Applying for a grant from the borough council the club’s secretary said this would give the club a better chance of grants from other sources such as the English Tourist Board.
Aid Archie Knight said he was in favour of the council making a grant, but not one of £1,000.
Committed
Mr. Terry Tonkin thought the council were committed in principle to getting the club started and the slipway was the sort of development they had talked about for years. Although £1,000 was a high figure the slipway would be a great advantage to St. Ives and give sailing from the port an added boost.
The meeting agreed with Mr. P.C. Deeble Chief Public Health Inspector, that the club should indicate that they were prepared to make their facilities available to the young people of the town who wished to learn to sail.
Mr. Slocombe’s proposition, that a grant by the council should be agreed in principle subject to further information being supplied and finances being available, was carried by 5 votes to 4.
1974
May
Sailing Club’s dinghy pen in Sloop car park
At the annual meeting of St. Ives Sailing Club, it was reported that the club had been offered and had agreed to accept eight car spaces on the Sloop car park as a dinghy pen at a rent of £130. The area would be enclosed by the club and would provide spaces for about 14 to 16 boats. Members were asked to contact the secretary, Mr. Keith Varnals, Regent Hotel, St. Ives, if they wished to keep their craft in the pen.
Previously, St. Ives Borough Council had agreed to the club’s use of the top floor of the Porthgwidden Beach Café as a club room, and a satisfactory rent had to be agreed.
It was reported that the club had 105 founder members and that its present bank balance was £235.39.
Officers appointed were Commodore, Tom Trevorrow; chairman, John Perry; secretary, Keith Vanals; treasurer, John Cutler; rear-commodore (admin) Alec Luke; rear commodore (sailing and cruising) to be appointed; committee, J.B. Thomas, Ivan Paynter, Dr. T.E. Barwell, E.R. Bamforth, Don Stevens, Martin Roach, A.L. Pulsford, B. Rosevear, R.G. Quick, Mike Jennings.
The club propose to establish their permanent headquarters at Porthgwidden and have been offered part of the car park there, on a 29-year lease for the club house and boat pen. The Borough Council granted the club £250 towards the cost of a proposed slipway at Balmaluz and the money has been set aside for this purpose. In the meantime, the club will have the use of the lifeboat slipway.
Penwith Council questions the use of Porthgwidden café by SISC.
June
September
.
November
Sailing Club Want Ramparts Launch Area
St. Ives Sailing Club are suggesting to Penwith District Council that the club should be allowed to use the “Ramparts” (the remains of the New Pier) behind Smeaton’s Pier as a launching area. The club are also asking for the use of the existing car park spaces on Smeaton’s Pier as a dinghy pen; the central lighthouse on the pier for the storage of sailing gear; and the verandha area on the seaward side of the woman’s lavatories on the pier, which they would convert for use as a clubhouse with changing rooms and showers.
In a letter sent this week to the District Council’s secretary (Mr. D.H. Hosken), the club’s secretary (Mr. K. Varnals) refers to a recent meeting at St. Ives between club and council officals, including the Resort Officer, Mr. T.B. Gooding, who intimated that the district council wished to use all the Porthgwidden Café Premises for beach purposes.
The letter points out that St. Ives Borough Council granted the club the use of the upper part of the premises but says that the club would be prepared to relinquish this right if suitable alternative accommodation could be found.
The club also needed more pen space for members boats. They understood this would not be available at the Sloop car park and that in fact the existing pen there was needed as extra car parking space.
The letter goes on to point out that Smeaton’s Pier is not to be used for vehicle parking next year.
Improvements to the slipway at the “Ramparts” would benefit local fishermen, enabling them to land later catches; to pleasure boat operators, especially at low water; and the R.N.L.I. inshore rescue boat.
“We trust that these suggestions will meet with your approval and that you will arrange for a site meeting to be held quickly so as to enable us to put any work or alterations in hand during the winter months” the letter adds.
Sailing Club Jumped the Gun Councillor
Suggestions to Penwith District Council from St. Ives Sailing Club that the club should be allowed to take over car parking spaces on Smeaton’s Pier as a dinghy pen and be granted other facilities on or near the quay were “a classic instance of a massive jumping of the gun,” said Mr. Dorvil Jones at Monday’s meeting of St. Ives Town Council.
Mr. Jones was referring to the fact that there had been no decision by Penwith Council to end car parking on the quay – a fact that was confirmed by the Parish Clerk, Mr. Tom Prideaux, who said he had been told by Mr. Malcolm Furneaux, former Borough Treasurer, and now assistant district council treasurer, that the district council definitely needed the income from Smeaton’s Pier car parking.
A letter from local fisherman, Mr. Eric Ward (similar to his letter published in the “Times & Echo” last week), which was also signed by 36 other “bona fide full-time fishermen,” was received by the council.
It listed objections to the club’s suggestions, which also included one that the club should be allowed to use the central lighthouse on the pier for storing sailing gear, etc, and another that the club should be allowed to use the “verandha” public shelter behind the ladies toilet as a clubhouse with changing accommodation and showers.
Fishermen’s Fears
There was no objection from the fishermen to the club’s proposal to use the “Ramparts” area for launching purposes, after a slipway had been built there by the club, but the slipway would be of little practical use to fishermen, and that the R.N.L.I. had no plans to move the inshore rescue boat from its present station from where it is launched, from the lifeboat slipway.
The letter said the fishermen feared that the granting of the facilities to the club could prejudice any grant aid from the White Fish Authority to improve existing facilities for the local fishing industry in the harbour.
“Quite a few” fishermen were young men who had invested many thousands of pounds in the industry, and they were worried about any threat to their livelihood.
Mr. J.B. Thomas spoke of general concern in the town about the club’s proposals. The fishermen had been fighting for many years to clear cars off the quay, the lighthouse was used for storing fish and it would cost a lot of money to provide an alternative store, and people were “aghast” at the idea that the club should take over the “much used” verandah shelter.
He moved that the fishermen’s objections should be endorsed by the council and forwarded to the Penwith District Council, and Mr. Harold Franklin seconded.
“Storm in a teacup”
Mr. Dorvil Jones suggested that there was no point in the council taking up any position on the matter in view of the fact that there had been no decision to remove cars from the quay. It would be sufficient to say that the council supported all the views expressed by the fishermen and that they would make sure that nothing was done to detract from their present harbour facilities.
Mr. Michael Peters said ever since he had been on the council the fishermen had been asking that cars should be banned from the quay. Now this had become a possibility it was proposed that sailing dinghies would take their place.
Mrs. Enid Noall described the dispute as a “storm in a teacup” and said the club’s suggestions were based on discussion with the district council’s resort officer who had no authority to act in the matter.
Mr. Harding Laity said if it was a question of boats or cars on the quay, he would prefer to see boats.
Mr. Alan Harvey said by publishing their suggestions the club had at least made the public aware of what they proposed.
It was finally agreed that Penwith Council should be told that the town council would object to any plans from the Sailing Club involving any development of the quay.
1975
June
Twenty entries for St.Ives S.C. races
Twenty boats were entered for St. Ives Sailing Club’s races on Saturday and there was an enjoyable day’s sailing despite very poor visibility and light winds. The club were grateful to local fishing boat owners for dans and anchors and other equipment.
Results: Morning race (handicap): 1, B Matthews, (Mounts Bay S.C., Mirror): 2, N Noye (Mounts Bay, Osprey). Afternoon race (class): Mirrors: 1, P Agnew Jnr.: Ospreys: 1, N Noye: Menagerie; 1, J Couch.
July
The Rampers to be repaired and a new slipway built - £5000.00. (Not by SISC)
August
Handicap racing.
New power safety boat Misty-Vu. Lent and manned by Tom Wright.
Contrasting sailing days
A colourful and exciting scene was set this grey Saturday afternoon when a record fast moving fleet of 16 boats (4 belonging to visitors) massed at the start line.
The south-westerly wind was a good force 4 gusting 5, and soon after the starting shot, the figure-of-eight course, provided thrills and spills. The single-handed Lasers and the Firefly were soon in trouble and capsized.
“Crumpet” the Eddy, Osprey, helmed by experienced visitor, D. Pipes practically planed round the two laps, in 43 mins. The little 7ft 6ins visiting Puffin gallantly fought round one lap in 1hr 4mins 15secs. The 3 visiting Mirrors had their own private battle with 9903 (G. Machon) beating A. Willetts (17064) by just over 1min.
O.O.D. was J. Petzing and the safety boat was manned again by Tom Wright.
Results: 1, Mirror 9903 (G. Machon). 2, Osprey 587 (D.Pipes). 3, G.P.14 1145 (D. Woolcock). 4, Mirror 17064 (A. Willets). 5, Redwing 27 (J. Couch). 6, Snapdragon (R.Nance). 7, Mirror 29287 (I. Milward). 8, Enterprise 2910 (J. Warner). 9, G.P.14. 1347 (K. Rashleigh).
Monday the tide at almost dead low water springs, a fine, sunny day, and a light, westerly wind force 2-3, made a great contrast to Saturday’s race. With some fishing and pleasure boats lying off, the start for the 14 boats was somewhat cramped. Alec Luke, in Laser 23616, made an excellent getaway, and led the fleet for 2 laps of the triangular course. The finish was a beat to the orange buoy, and John Couch in Redwing (27) just squeezed past the Eddy boys in their Osprey “Crumpet” to beat them by 9 secs.
The Mirror battle continued. This time, A. Willetts in 17064 led the class home.
Starts are becoming much more competitive. Is it that the O.O.D.’s time-keeping has improved or that less racing helmsmen are using the Town Clock?
The O.O.D. was Philip Perry.
Results: 1, Laser 23616 (A. Luke); 2, Mirror 17064 (A. Willetts); 3, Mirror 14007 (F. Mayo); 4, Redwing 27 (J. Couch); 5, GP14 1145 (D.Woolcock); 6, Firefly 307 (I. Paynter); 7, ?
8, Mirror 402293 (P. Barnett); 9, Mirror 9907 (G.Machon); 10, GP14 1347 (J.Petzing); 11 Mirror 27414 (K.Varnalls); 12, Snapdragon (R. Nance).
October
Sailing Club’s best season
After their best racing season with as many as 18 boats on the water, St. Ives Sailing Club are holding their first laying-up-supper at the Western Hotel next Friday.
Most boats are being laid up, but a few hardy sailors will continue competing in a further five races in a Frostbite series for an Icicle Trophy (best of three counting).
The Laying-up-supper will be from 8p.m. till midnight.
First ‘Frostbite’ handicaps
Eight boats came to the line on October 18 to start the first day of the ‘Frostbite’ series of handicap racing. The light and variable winds caught out several helms at the start with John Cutler (Osprey 78) taking five minutes to clear the line – minutes sorely needed at the end of the race. Ivan Paynter in Firefly 307 made a copy book start, crossing the start line one second after “the off”. Most boats pitched away to the first mark, except for Richard Woolcock (GP 1145). He decided to sail freer and faster and his rapid progress soon had the others taking the same action.
Just as the race officers were considering finishing the race after one lap the wind freshened to a nice Force 3 gusting 4 and the fleet opened out, John Cutler taking the lead on the water , followed by Richard Woolcock and Ivan Paynter. These positions were maintained almost to the finish when Keith Varnals (Laser 23616) found an extra turn of speed to pass 2 boats to finish 3rd on the water.
However, it was handicap racing and the results on corrected time put a different picture on the race. In particular, the consistent single-handed sailing by Robin Nance in the YW Dayboat was rewarded in the end by a third place on corrected time. Alec Luke was race officer, and the rescue boat was manned by Philip Stevens.
Results (on Corrected times): 1, R Woolcock (GP1145); 2, I Paynter (F307); 3, R Nance (YW Dayboat); 4, J Cutler (Osprey 78); 5, K Varnals (Laser23616); 6, J Petzing (GP1347); 7, D Watson (Fireball 162); Retired, M Jennings (Wayfarer 591).
Successful first laying up supper
After the best racing season with as many as 18 boats on the water, St. Ives Sailing Club held their first Laying Up Supper at the Western Hotel on Friday October 24th.
A welcome 53 members and friends attended, enjoying nautical and other conversation, a wonderful buffet and a “hop”
During the evening the Chairman’s Cup, kindly donated by Don Stevens, was presented to the winning helm of the summer series races, Alec Luke, rear commodore of the club, with 7.25 points. Second was John Couch with 7.5 points, and third was Dick Woolcock 14.5 y points.
The next social event is a wine and cheese party on Friday December 5th.
December
St. Ives Sailing Club Final Frostbite Race
The final race of the Frostbite series was sailed on Saturday December 5. Alec Luke (Mirror 27414) made a disastrous mistake following a good start and tacked into a foul tide which put him far behind the leaders. John Couch, sailing the Snapdragon with owner Robin Nance crewing, was in the lead round the first mark, closely followed by Dick Woolcock (GP1145) and eventually John Petzing (GP1499) who failed to locate the mark until he had sailed a considerable distance past it – time lost that could well have altered the final result. The two GP’s and the Snapdragon then had a ding-dong battle with the leading position changing frequently and at the finish only 25 seconds separated the three boats after more than one hour’s racing.
Results on corrected time: 1, Dick Woolcock (GP1145); 2, John Couch (Snapdragon); 3, John Petzing (GP1499); 4, Mike Jennings (Wayfarer 97), retired.
Final results, best three races to count: 1, Dick Woolcock (2.25); 2, Alec Luke (6.25); 3, John Petzing (9); 4, Robin Nance (10); 5, John Cutler (11); 6, Keith Varnals (11.75); 7, Mike Jennings (17).
1976
January
Reprieve for the Sloop car park Dinghy Pen
A recommendation which would have denied the SISC the use of part of the Sloop car park as a dinghy pen after the 31st of March this year was rejected unanimously by Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee on Tuesday after St. Ives councillors had said that if the club lost the temporary use of the car park before alternative accommodation was available it would have to be disbanded.
The committee agreed that the club should be allowed to use the car park for another twelve months.
The recommendation, contained in the district secretary’s report, suggested that instead of the Sloop car park, the club should be allowed the temporary use of Porhgwidden car park and that when the Harbour Order was revised, and harbour maintenance became a cost on the rates the use of Smeaton’s Pier by the club should be considered.
The report pointed out that the club had been granted the use of the Sloop car park before local government reorganisation, on a yearly basis. Since reorganisation a licence for the club to use the car park had not been granted. The recommendation was made in view of the shortage of car parking space in the Downalong area.
Fully Fledged
Mr. Jim Thomas wondered whether the officers responsible for the recommendation had studied the difficulties of getting dinghies from Porthgwidden to the lifeboat slipway against the traffic or completely round the town again. If they were left in the harbour who would look after them? He asked.
“We tried for years to get the sailing club off the ground. Now it is a fully fledged club, and, in our wisdom, we are trying to destroy it.” Mr. Thomas added.
In answer to Mr. H D Martin, Mr. Thomas said the dinghies occupied about 17 car spaces.
Mr. Michael Peters, supporting Mr. Thomas, said that, when necessary, work had been completed the sailing club would have admirable accommodation at the back of the pier.
Mr. N Hodson, the chief technical officer, said the aim was to bring the whole of the Sloop car park into use as a car park. Cornwall County Council who was the car parks authority, had made strong representations to this end and it would be to the advantage of businesses in the area.
March
Annual General Meeting.
Those officers elected were,
Alec Luke -------- Commodore Mrs Ann Luke ---------Treasurer
Don Stevens ----- Vice Commodore John Cutler ----------Secretary
Keith Varnals ---- Rear Commodore Mike Jennings ---Assistant Secretary
June
St. Ives Sailing Club
The departure of visiting helmsmen who supported the race on Whit Saturday saw fewer starters on the line for the race last Saturday-being the seventh race of the spring series.
The light airs and strong tides saw the head change constantly and forced the race officer, John Cutler, to shorten the course.
At one time John Petzing, in his newly acquired boat (GP6676) was being led by David Watson who was sailing John’s old boat (GP 1347) (borrowed for the afternoon). Fortunately, he was able to reverse this situation before the finish.
Keith Varnals sailing Wayfarer 591 sailed a sensible (and dry) race to win by 11 secs on corrected time, followed by Ivan Paynter (Firefly 307) to take yet another second place.
Final results: 1, Keith Varnals (W591) 47 mins. 19s; 2, Ivan Paynter (F307) 47 mins. 30s; 3, John Petzing (GP 6676) 52 mins. 42s; 4, David Watson (GP 1347) 52 mins. 52s; 5, Ted Fenna (Minisail 3851).
Last Spring Handicap race
The last race of the Spring Handicap series on Saturday attracted a larger number of starters than usual. The race officer, John Eddy, assisted by brother Peter, wisely postponed the start of the race until a mechanical defect on the safety boat had been rectified.
Eventually the fleet started on a gusty Force-4 wind and John Cutler soon established his usual lead on the water, being the fastest boat, and started his weekly battle against the clock. He was hotly pursued on the first two legs of the course by Alec Luke (Laser) but this challenge fizzled out on the first windward leg.
This week’s race was more exciting than most because of the many duels that were taking place within it. The three GP 14’s helmed by David Watson, John Petzing and Richard Woolcock changed places constantly and their battle was not resolved until the finish.
John Couch (Redwing) with his wife on the trapeze and son providing additional “ballast,”
was going exceptionally well to windward and dicing with the Laser and Ivan Paynter (Firefly). Nigel Stebbing sailing a borrowed Mirror sailed singlehanded and consistently to take fourth place on corrected time.
Final results on corrected times: 1, John Couch (Redwing); 2, Ivan Paynter (Firefly); 3, Alec Luke (Laser); 4, Nigel Stebbing (Mirror); 5, John Cutler (Osprey); 6, David Watson (GP 10784); 7, John Petzing (GP 6676); 8, Keith Varnals (Wayfarer); 9, Richard Woolcock (GP 1346); 10, Ted Fenna (Minisail).
No parking for boats at the Sloop next year
Following representation from St. Ives Chamber of Trade, seeking more car parking spaces for shoppers, Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee accepted a recommendation that in 1977-8 the whole of the parking area at the Sloop car park should be used for cars under a “pay and display” system.
The Chamber had asked that a full-time attendant should be employed at the Sloop car park until Christmas.
Mr. Dorvil Jones spoke of the difficulties St. Ives Sailing Club were facing in trying to find a suitable dinghy park. The club would want to know whether the council would make some alternative provision for them when they displaced them from the Sloop car park. The Sloop car park was the best place for them, though they knew it was only a temporary place.
The council would look after the traders because the traders needed the trade but were they going to “turf out” the sailing club without any compunction? “The club needs our help and ought to be helped.
The district secretary, Mr. Desmond Hosken, said the club’s licence to use Sloop car park expired next April and the club were aware they had to find alternative accommodation. “If the recommendation is approved, we shall do all we can to find the club alternative accommodation,” he added.
July
Regatta Beer and Pasties complaint
When St. Ives Town Council, were considering a request form the SISC last week for assistance in the running of their annual regatta, Mr. William Thomas, asked how any money granted by the council would be spent. He said he had heard that last year’s money granted by the council had gone on beer and pasties.
Mr. Keith Varnals, an official of the sailing club said, the first call on the money granted by the council was for renting the Sloop car park. The club did spend some money on refreshments, not all on beer and pasties. The regatta cost the club £80.00 last year.”
Much Resented
Mr. Archie Knight said he very much resented the spending of council money on beer and pasties, but Mrs. Iris Khalidi said that the regatta was an amenity for the whole town and gave visitors something to look forward to. “It was not champagne and caviar. I would hate to see St. Ives lose its reputation for hospitality,” she added.
The council agreed with the suggestion of Mayor (Mr. Dorvil Jones) that the sailing club’s application should be considered after the event, on Saturday 17, when details of the club’s financial situation would be clearer.
In the next weeks T & E the following appears.
“Beer and pasties”; Club hit back
To the Editor of the Times & Echo.
Dear Sir, In last week’s issue of the Times & Echo under the heading Regatta “Beer and pasties” complaint, you reported on a meeting of St. Ives Town Council. The article left your readers in no doubt whatsoever that
1. St. Ives Sailing Club required assistance for the running of their annual regatta, and
2. Money granted by St. Ives Town Council last year was used for the supply of beer and pasties
This is a complete travesty of the truth, and I would be obliged if you would now allow me to acquaint your readers with the true facts.
Firstly, there is no such event as the St. Ives Sailing Club Annual Regatta: it is the St. Ives Town Regatta and until the reorganisation of local government it was financed by the town. With the formation of St. Ives Sailing Club, the organisation passed to them, and the Borough Council financed the event and provided the Sloop car park, free of charge, for the day for the competitor’s cars and dinghies and road trailers. The entry fee for the regatta was £1 which included the price of one beer and one pasty per competitor-so, in fact, the competitors paid for their own.
With the shift to Penwith, use of the Sloop car park is now charged for and there has been no financial assistance from the Town Council for the last two years. All the costs as been borne by St. Ives Sailing Club. What we are now asking is that the town finances its regatta if it wishes this annual event to continue. We on our part, will provide the organisation, rescue boats, equipment, etc., at our expense. This year we have not been very ambitious because of the lack of financial support, but with more co-operation between the Town Council and the Sailing Club are hoping to include more water events next year.
Why St. Ives Sailing Club should be so continually maligned is beyond my comprehension. Following the collapse of the rather ambitious plans at its inception, the club has nevertheless, without premises or adequate boat space or other facilities (one reason why wish to conserve our small capital) continue to thrive. The membership, at the moment, stands at approximately 150 persons joined together by their common interest in sailing and seamanship, and encompasses all ages, classes and creeds. All but four members are resident within the old St. Ives Borough. The club is a constitutionally set up organisation as it is proved by the fact that it has recently become affiliated to the Royal Yachting Association.
Arrangements are in an advanced stage with St. Ives Secondary School to provide sail training for pupils. For this project St. Ives Sailing Club will provide qualified instructors in both theory and practical work and the boats used will be loaned by our members.
So, in spite of our recent bad press our intentions are honourable and with this venture and others to be introduced we feel that we are now ready to take our place alongside the other longer-established sports organisations in the town, to the benefit, not only of our members, but to the community as a whole. ALEC LUKE, Commodore, St. Ives Sailing Club.
Dolphin power for regatta dinghies
Beaky the dolphin was the star performer at the St. Ives Regatta on Saturday. Many of the dinghies received uncalled-for assistance when he got underneath them and hurried them on at a speed surprising to onlookers on shore. The event was organised by St. Ives Sailing Club and there were good entries.
Results: Ospreys; 1, M Woolcock; 2, C Chapman; 3, P Hosking, all of Mounts Bay S.C.
Enterprises; 1, J Matthews; equal 2, B Berriman and P Ellis, all of Penzance S.C.
Mirrors; 1, W Jago; 2, C Reynolds; 3, R Agnew, all of Mounts Bay S.C.
Handicap; 1, R Woolcock GP 14; 2, J Couch Redwing; 3, I Paynter Firefly, all of St. Ives S.C.
September
Sunday sailing is a sports week event
This Sunday is one of the first Sailing from St. Ives harbour day events of Penwith District Council’s “Sports for all Week.” An all-day netball tournament, volleyball, and squash at Tregenna Castle, an angling competition, and riding at Tregenna Stables are other Sunday events.
Mr. John Cutler who is organising the sailing on behalf of St. Ives Sailing Club said yesterday that Penzance and Mounts Bay Sailing Clubs were also organising sailing for people, including school children, who would like to “come and try it”. Members of the club would be offering people short sailing trips to encourage sailing. They would not be giving sailing instruction.
Although there has never been any organised sailing in the harbour on Sundays, Mr. Cutler did not think that the sailing proposed would harm the old St. Ives “quiet Sunday” image. Throughout the summer there has been a fair number of boats sailing out of the harbour on Sundays, he said.
Programmes for the “Sport for all Week” are obtainable at the Guildhall.
1977
February
Reprieve for dinghy pen at the Sloop
St. Ives Sailing Club are to be allowed to continue to use part of the Sloop car park for a maximum period of 24 months while they are given the opportunity to construct a slipway at Bamaluz Point, Porthgwidden, which will enable them to use an area of Porthgwidden car park as a dinghy pen.
This was agreed at Tuesday’s meeting of Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee which had been told of the club’s difficulties in finding a suitable site for storage of boats within reasonable distance of launching facilities.
The club’s use of the Sloop car park was due to be ended on March 31 last year, but a 12-month extension was granted to allow them to find a permanent site.
The committee were told that the whole of the harbour area had been examined, but the only suitable site was Porthgwidden with a slipway at Bamaluz Point.
Three sites
Sites considered were Smeaton’s Pier; alongside the West Pier, lavatories; and the old Fishermen’s Pier.
Smeaton’s Pier was considered unsuitable as all the dinghies would have to be dragged along the Wharf against the flow of traffic and pedestrians, to be launched at the Lifeboat Slip.
The second site would involve the construction of a level platform on the beach at the back of the lavatories, which would be an extremely expensive operation, though if tackled in the right way could provide an alternative slipway for the lifeboat. This, however, was considered too expensive.
If the old fishermen’s pier was repaired and levelled it would provide room for several dinghies in conjunction with parking of dinghies on Smeaton’s Pier, and if the slipway was improved it would provide a useful access to the sea. This scheme would, however, result in loss of revenue from car parking on Seaton’s Pier which would be unlikely to be made up by the fees charged to the Sailing Club.
The advantages of Porthgwidden were that it was away from harbour area congestion, had adequate car parking, and an ideal area which could be fenced off. This would give adequate room for a clubhouse.
The Sailing Club were having plans and estimates prepared so that they could decide whether the Porthgwidden scheme was within their means.
Mr. Dorvil Jones thought that the Sailing Club should be given an unspecified period in which to complete their plans, but the committee approved a motion of Mr. Oakley Eddy supported by Mr. Alan Harvey that they should be allowed two years.
July
St. Ives Sailing club hosts to the Navy
To mark the courtesy visit of the town of H.M.S. Andromeda, St. Ives Sailing Club arranged a special sailing match on Saturday. The sailing enthusiasts of the ship, who included the captain (Captain K. A. Low) and First Lieutenant, were lent boats by the club members.
Two races were sailed in a lively Force 3-4 wind and Andromeda’s captain entered the light-hearted spirit in which the match was being sailed by capsizing in a borrowed Laser class dinghy before he mastered the technique of this lively boat.
After racing, the naval visitors were taken home by various club members to change and shower before returning to a reception and buffet supper at Chy-an-Fore Hotel. The commodore of the sailing club, Mr. Alec Luke first welcomed the visitors before presenting the prize to the overall winner, Mr. John Couch, and a special trophy to H.M.S. Andromeda to commemorate their visit.
In response, Captain Low thanked St. Ives Sailing Club for its hospitality and invited members to visit the frigate next day for drinks and a tour of the ship. On this occasion the captain presented the sailing club with a copy of the ship’s crest.
Race results: 1, John Cutler (Scorpion); 2, John Couch (Redwing); 3, Lt. R McGhee, RN (GP 14). 2nd race: 1, John Couch (Redwing); 2, John Petzing (GP 14); 3, David Watson (GP 14).
August
St. Ives Sailing Club (First race to Hayle?)
A difficult course was laid by officer of the day Mr. D Phillips for last Saturday’s race, giving locals and visitors a chance to see their spinnakers in Force 4 winds.
Making a good start, J Cutler (Scorpion) led at the first mark, closely followed by J Petzing (GP 14) with J Couch (Redwing) and D Watson (GP 14) contesting 3rd spot. On the next windward leg, the first two positions stayed as they were, but the GP pulled away from the Redwing. On the downward leg it was interesting to see helmsmen using their spinnakers to such good effect. These places were held until the end of the race. Corrected results: 1, J Petzing (GP 14); 2, D Watson (GP 14); 3, J Cutler (Scorpion); 4, J Couch (Redwing).
A great attraction was a simultaneous race for working sailing craft, the first to be run by the sailing club. The course was round the outer buoy, down to Hayle Bar Buoy and back to the finish off the old lighthouse.
After sailing about six miles, the first three boats home finished with only four minutes bstween them: 1, T wright (Drascombe lugger); 2, J McWilliams (Lugger); 3, J Thomas (Tosher gaff cutter).
October
An application by SISC for permission to build a concrete slipway at Porthgwidden car park was considered by a special meeting of Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee last week. They decided to raise no objection to the scheme subject to the work being carried out to the satisfaction of the council and to there being no interference with the car park or car parking. The application is now to be determined by the planning committee.
1978
April
St. Ives Sailing Club elect their officers.
St. Ives Sailing Club’s officers elected at their recent annual meeting are:
Don Stevens--------------- Commodore Marion Jennings------------ Secretary
Phillip Penberthy--------- Vice Commodore Phillip Lander--------------- Tresurer
Reg Rutledge------------- Rear Commodore John Petzing---------------- Sailing Sec
June
Gale conditions suited the racing “cats”
A gale force wind and a heavy sea limited sailing in St. Ives Town Regatta, but conditions were ideal for eleven 18-foot international class Dart catamarans, made in Penryn and mainly entered by members of the Restronguet Sailing Club. There were also entries from Pentewan Sailing Club, the home club and from one holiday maker. The helmsmen included a member of the Hong Kong Police and a Dutchman. It was the first time the regatta had included a race for catamarans.
The race scheduled for the morning had to be cancelled owing to wind and sea conditions, but the wind abated after lunch.
The Darts entered the handicap race with seven craft of other types. The wind was still strong and a second race for the Darts only. The rare spectacle they provided was greatly enjoyed by local people and visitors.
The prizes were presented by Mr. Oakley Eddy, chairman of Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee.
Results: Darts; 1, J Underward (Footloose); 2, C Christian (Hot Canary); 3, T Carter; 4, R Stevens; equal 5, J Cope and D Jones; 7, N McQueen. Handicap: 1, R Nance (Yachting World Day boat); 2, B Gartside (GP 14); 3, J Trebilcock (Scorpion).
July
Slipway for Sailing Club at New Pier?
As an extension to the proposed plan for repairing the New Pier, SISC may be provided with their long-awaited slipway and permanent dinghy pen. Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee decided last week that details of an amended scheme should be discussed with the sailing club.
The committee were reminded that the club had been granted 2 years use of the Sloop car park while they provided themselves with a club house at Porthgwidden and a slipway at Balmaluz Point.
Balmaluz “dangerous”
But following consultations with the RNLI, coastguards, harbourmaster and local fishermen, the club decided that Balmaluz Point was too dangerous for launching small boats in anything but very calm conditions, said a report from the council’s chief technical officer, Mr N Hodgson.
The club hoped that many schoolchildren would be among their members, and they could not take risks.
But they are willing to contribute towards the New Pier reconstruction work necessary as a protection for Smeaton’s Pier. If the wall was run in a south-westerly direction towards Smeaton’s Pier and then back to the start of New Pier, and the area in-filled to above high-water level, 20 to 30 boats could be parked on this new platform and a slipway could be built following the present pathway onto the beach.
Sheltered lauching
This, said Mr Hodgson’s report, would give very sheltered launching and provide a sitting out area for visitors and possibly an extra landing area for fishermen.
Loan sanction was being sought for the original construction scheme, but for an extended scheme, which would be more expensive, extra money would have to be borrowed.
SISC had started a fund-raising campaign and were ready to seek grants, but so far, they were unable to say how much they could contribute. The enlargement of the scheme would delay work on the New Pier for a further year at least.
The committee were told that the cost of the extended scheme might exceed £25,000
Mr Hicks, council chairman, was in favour of the scheme and thought that efforts should be made to go ahead with it.
Costly alternative
A “costly alternative” was mentioned by Mr Hodgson in his report. This would be to make the Wheal Dream car park available to SISC and to carry out minimal repairs to New Pier to make the slipway good, and to give support to the stone facing wall.
Boats could then be taken down to the slipway without much interference to traffic. Cars now using Wheal Dream car park could be accommodated at Porthgwidden “now virtually a
residents’ car park.
Report by Geoff Langford
I joined the club in about 1978 and was a committee member not long after joining, I think races were held every Saturday afternoon, then I owned a lovely little gaff rigged Heron but it was just a little heavy for me to get down to the water’s edge (we didn't have a tractor then) and my boys were then into faster boats such as Laser’s and Wayfarer’s so I sold the Heron and bought a windsurfer which was great fun. We had a kind of windsurf club and occasionally raced with the Sailing club and we had board racks in the pen.
August
Summer Handicap
The third race in the Summer Handicap series was sailed on Saturday August 12 in excellent conditions with a calm sea and a wind of approximately force 2. A fleet of 15 boats, ranging from an Albacore to a Wayfarer, made a good start and immediately Alec Luke (Laser) went into the lead followed by J Petzing (GP 14). The Laser continued to draw ahead but at the beginning of the second lap suffered a broken gooseneck. It managed to stay ahead of the GP 14 and cross the finishing line first, but on corrected time was placed fourth overall.
Results on corrected time: 1, J Petzing; 2, A Luke; 3, K Varnals; 4, A Matley-Jones; 5, N Stevens.
The “Sports and Leisure” Sunday Cup race was contested by 13 boats, unfortunately half the fleet sailed the wrong course and were disqualified.
Final results on corrected time: 1, J Petzing GP 14); 2, M Gregory (Enterprise); 3, R Woolcock (Mirror); 4, R Rutledge (Heron).
Racing
In a strong breeze (force 4) the club’s summer series of races continued over a triangular course which took the fleet past Carbis Bay as well as the town beaches. At the end of the first lap, A Luke (Laser) led from J Couch (Redwing) and D Watson (GP 14). In the latter stages the G.P. closed up on the Redwing but failed by 45 seconds on corrected time to catch the Laser.
Results: 1, A Luke (26.92); 2, D Watson (27.64); 3, J Couch (28.18); 4, N Stevens (Miracle) (28.29)
The Sports and Leisure Sunday Cup was sailed in a steady force 2-3 over an inshore course.
The cup this week went to “Nobby” Stevens sailing his Miracle to a conclusive victory.
Results: 1, N Stevens (40.19); 2, P Lewis (Topper) (42.05); 3, R Rutledge (Heron) (42.87); 4, K Martin (GP 14) (43.56).
September
Light airs for weekend sailing at St. Ives
Last Saturday’s race was sailed in very light airs with the lightweight boats having the advantage. From the start J Couch (Redwing) led from A Luke (Laser) and D Phillips (Laser) but on the windward leg A Luke’s Laser went away into a convincing lead with J Cutler (Scorpion) pulling up to second and the rapidly improving K Martin (GP 14) gaining third.
The fact that the first four places went to boats of different classes shows the value of the club’s handicap class to helmsmen who would not otherwise be able to race.
Results: 1, A. Luke (Laser); 2, J. Cutler (Scorpion); 3, K. Martin (GP 14); 4, J. Couch (Redwing); 5, D. Phillips (Laser); 6, J.Petzing (GP 14); 7, N. Stevens (Miracle).
Sports and Leisure Sunday Cup.
On Sunday in very light winds the boats sailed a two-lap course round the bay with the Osprey, sailed by G. Saunders going off into a commanding lead. Again, the Scorpion pulled up to second on the water with the youngest crew helm pair, the Schail brothers third.
Results: 1, J. Cutler (Scorpion); 2, Schail brothers; 3, J.Petzing (GP 14): 4, N. Stevens (Miracle); 5, G. Saunders (Osprey).
1979
May
Sailing club may use harbour master’s office for five years.
SISC have been granted a 5-year lease of the former harbour master’s office near the Sloop Inn. This was agreed by Penwith Council last week although the Recreation and Amenities Committee had recommended a lease of only 12 months.
June
SISC slipway problem is still unresolved.
Discussions extending over 5 years have not resulted in a slipway and dinghy park for SISC, and on the motion of Mr H Storer, Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities committee agreed last week that a definite scheme should be prepared to provide the club the facilities it needs.
A sub- committee will meet representatives of SISC and other interested parties to go into details.
It was recommended in the report of the district secretary that: 1) the Town Council and SISC be told that the council are unable to provide facilities for the club in the New Pier development. and 2) SISC consider the district council’s suggestion that a slipway be constructed at Balmaluz Point for the club’s use.
Informed opinion in St. Ives was against Balmaluz because it was too exposed, the committee were told. It was explained that the club only qualify for Sports Council grant if they had exclusive use of the facilities. This would mean that the facilities provided at New Pier could not be used by fishermen and pleasure boat operators.
July
Help for SISC in Penwith plans for New Pier
The Council’s Recreation and Amenities Committee on Wednesday approved a recommendation that the council’s scheme for the New Pier area should include a plat to possibly accommodate the sailing club’s dinghies.
Also recommended was that the sailing club should provide the money and expertise for the provision of additional slipway accommodation and ancillary work if required, that the harbour master’s former office should be located to the club on 12 months licence basis at a negotiated rent, and that once the scheme has been completed the sailing club should vacate that part of the Sloop car park that it uses as a dinghy pen. (Continued on Page 6)
The committee decided to defer for further consideration a section of the recommendation, which was that the building formerly used by St. Ives Angling Society should be demolished and the site located to the club to provide accommodation for their members, at the club’s expense, subject to necessary planning permissions being obtained.
Mr. Oakley Eddy, chairman of the committee, said yesterday that the council had got the work of reinstatement and repairs in hand and would try to get it completed before the winter gales. He pointed out that the amount of work the council could do was restricted by government-imposed spending cuts.
SISC Races (Town Regatta)
Saturday, 35 boats from Mounts Bay and St. Ives took part in the Town Regatta in stiff force 4-5 westerly winds. Principal winners were Malcolm Woolcock and Ken Couch in Ospreys; Andrew Baker and Pipper Hickson, handicap, and Nick Botterell and John Richards, Mirrors.
The first St.Ives boat home in the handicap was sailed by Robin Nance who won the Florence Cup.
July
SISC Races (first evening race)
The club decided to start an evening race as an innovation. This was held on Tuesday and was very successful, ten boats entering. The first 3 places were taken by visiting boats, Mr. A. Willetts 505, Mr. A. Gregory’s Laser and Mr. Gregory’s Enterprise.
September
IRB rescues dinghy sailors. (First SISC member(s) rescued by the Lifeboat?)
Called out by the coastguard on Sunday, St. Ives inshore rescue boat Lion Cub 1, in the charge of Eric Ward went to the aid of helmsman and crew of a 14-foot sailing boat- Mr. Robin Nance and Mr. Richard Woolcock - which had capsized in strong and freshening westerly wind in St. Ives Bay. The boat’s buoyancy aids had floated out and the yachtsmen were unable to right their craft. The rescue boat took them and the boat back to the harbour. On Monday, Mr. Nance handed to the Lifeboat hon, secretary Captain Eric Kemp a cheque for £20 for Lifeboat funds.
Harbour master’s office to let.
Tenders are to be invited for the tenancy of the former harbour master’s office at St. Ives after the sailing club has rejected an offer of rent at £240 a year. Club representatives said they were not prepared to pay an annual rent that exceeded £50.
1980
July
The first ‘Fifties club’ draw.
Back Row Tom Majors, Sheila Langford, John Spillane, Phil Lander,
Front row HMCG. Nobby Clark, Toni Carver, Don Stevens, Mary Wright, Geoff Langford
Grant to SISC
A grant of £300 is being recommended by the Sports Council (Southwest) for SISC.
The money will be used towards the purchase of a safety boat which is regarded as essential equipment.
July
Annual Regatta
1981
May
Regatta as a Festival event?
SISC are not organising a regatta this year. In a letter to the Town Council the club’s commodore, Mr. J. A. Petzing, gave the reasons as lack of facilities and “complete and total lack of support from outside the club.”
Mr. Eddie Norman suggested that the regatta might run as a St. Ives Festival event in September and the council agreed that the idea should be put to the festival committee by Mr. Norman, who is a member of that committee.
Mr. J. B. Thomas recalled that the former borough council, which had more powers than the present parish council, used to support the regatta. They owned the Sloop car park and could provide space for the boats, which was the sailing club’s biggest need.
The meeting agreed that a regatta would be an asset to the festival.
June
A berth at last for sailing club.
A temporary solution to SISC’s long-standing problem - lack of a headquarters building – seems to have been solved. Penwith Council’s Recreation and Amenities committee on Wednesday approved the club’s application to use part of the former factory of J and J Couch Ltd, in Back Road East – the caretaker’s flat – on a temporary basis.
Subject to planning permission, the committee agreed, the council would grant the club an annual licence to use the former flat, which the club would repair and maintain.
The club would pay an “amenity rent” which would reflect the amount of work undertaken by them to make the premises fit for use. For the first year the rent would be £100 plus rates.
The whole factory site is owned by Penwith Council. Plans to build flats for elderly people there have been held up because of the local sewage embargo.
The factory buildings, including the caretaker’s flat, will be demolished when the embargo is lifted
1982
February
St. Ives Sailing Club’s Junior trophy is presented by the Commodore, John Pezing (left) to Michael Langford at the club’s awards night and social evening at Chy-an-Fore Hotel on Saturday. Other trophies, held by junior members of the club, were awarded as follows: Spring Series, 1, Tom Atkinson; 2, David Watson. Mermaid Cup: David Watson. Commodore’s Cup, Alec Luke. Junior Section: Champions Cup, David Lander and Colin Duffy. Junior Crew, Neil Duffy. Snapdragon Trophy, David Roach. The event was well supported and there was a buffet. A raffle made £35 for Junior Section funds.
Back Row Robin Langford, David Lander ,Alan Roach, John Petzing, Mike Langford, Paul Prisk, Richard Scharff,
Front Row David Roach, Colin Duffy, Neil Duffy, Paul Hasse
July
Race starters locked out.
Chaos prevailed at the start of SISC’s Saturday series race this week. The trouble arose when the race officers attempted to set up the flags and fire the starting gun, etc, in the old light house on Smeaton’s Pier.
Unknown to the sailing club, the lock on the door of the lighthouse had been changed and the club had not been informed. The race however was eventually got under way with a hastily made blue flag and whistle.
With wind south-easterly, blowing force 4-5, gusting to force 6, all boats made good speeds and “Second Happiness” helmed by David Watson and crewed by Raymond Knowles, came first. Second was “Mirror” helmed by David Lander, crewed by Colin Duffy, 3rd “High Jinks” helmed by Edward Jenkyn, crewed by Alan Roach.
August
Chairman of St. Ives Round Table, Mr William Trevorrow, presenting the sailing dinghy “Cheeky” to Geoff Langford, chairman of St. Ives Sailing Club’s Junior Section. The boat was jointly donated by St.Ives Round Table and St. Ives Lions Club. The Junior Section of the club was formed to enable the youngsters of the town to learn seamanship and sailing, thus giving them a constructive activity winter and summer. In the background are some of
the junior members, David Lander, David Roach, Leslie Jefford, Paul Prisk, Mike, Neil Duffy, Paul Hasse, Colin Duffy, Alan Roach.
Report by Geoff Langford
The St Ives Sailing Club Junior Section had two boats one being a GP14 called ‘Cheeky’ which was owned by the juniors and a Wayfarer called ‘Nickeripper’ which was on permanent loan. The GP14 was paid for by donations from St Ives Round Table and St Ives Lions Club and top up by moneys raised by the Juniors and their parents. All the kids had boat maintenance tuition all day on Saturdays in the winter months and sailing tuition all day on Saturdays in the summer. Just to give you some indication of fund raising, we held fund raising events out of season for the Junior Section of the St Ives Sailing Club in our hotel. These were great fun. We cleared the dining room in the hotel then set out a triangular course on the floor using paper towels with a start and finish on the paper. Then we would write various forfeits on the sections of paper, for example; (gust of wind, boat capsized go back three spaces), The idea of the game was that they would form teams of two as in sailing, the skippers would sit around a table where questions with points regarding sailing and boats would be asked and the one that got the right answer would win the squares of paper steps forward or backwards for their relevant crew member with his model boat. Bets would be laid with a bookie by the children’s parents and prizes for the winners. Food and drinks were served, and a good time was had by all, and we raised much needed funds for the junior sailing club. Within a couple of years, we had approached a brewery to help fund a club house with visitors showers in what was then dis-used offices in the town centre. We managed to fit a bar and have fairly comfortable seating with a bar that was opened three nights a week manned by volunteers. One has to remember that with every child there is generally two adults, so the St Ives sailing club junior section grew very healthily.
September
Festival sailing.
SISC held an open day on Saturday in conjunction with the September Festival Harbour Day.
Much interest was shown, and members of the public were invited to try their hands at, sailing and windsurfing. Unfortunately, there was very little or no wind.
In the afternoon a regatta was in force 1-2 westerly winds. Two races were held, one for the windsurfers, and one for the sailing dinghies. There were 17 entrants for the windsurfers race, with prizes donated by Windansea Surf Shop. Results: 1, Paul Lodey, £25, 2, Max Short, £10, Novice winner, Barry Oakland, £10.
Nine boats entered the dinghy race and prizes of two hand-blown glass yachts were donated by Leo Pilley of the Harbour Craft Market, one each for the senior and junior sections.
Senior section winner was John Spillane in “Ellawi,” crewed by Hazel Duffy, 2 was “Second Happiness” (David Watson and James Watson), 3, “Jigsaw” (Robin Nance and John Roach)
4, “Mirror” (P Jones and Alison Jones), 5, “Mirror” (Mr Greaves, crewed by his two daughters)
Junior section winner was Mike Langford in “Nicker-ripper” crewed by Neil Duffy,
2, “Blue-Mer” helmed by David Roach, crewed by Leslie Jefford, 3, “Mirror” (David Lander and Colin Duffy), 4, “Jam Sandwich” (Paul Prisk and Alan Roach).
Dave Duffy, Tom Majors and Rodger Pallant were O. D’s and David Freeman, and Mike Fox were 1st and 2nd safety boat coxswains. Lady members of the club did the catering and background work.
1983
May
Standing: Alan Roach, John Spillane, Edward Jenkins, Tom Majors, Beryl James, Gavin Short, Mike Langford, David Lander, John Petzing.
Front Row: ?, ?, Robin Nance, David Roach, Neil Duffy
1984
January
May
August
St. Ives Regatta.
A good-sized contingent of Mirrors and Lasers from Mounts Bay took part on Saturday in
St. Ives Sailing Club’s annual regatta and there were also visitors from Nottingham, Gloucester, and Bristol. Sixteen boats in all sailed a series of three races.
The wind was light northerly for the first race and favoured the smaller fleet. But in the afternoon the wind freshened with the result that some good times were recorded.
The overall winners (from Mounts Bay) were Lasers: P. Broomfield; Mirrors: J. Stephens;
Handicap: J. Stephens.
The local handicap resulted, after the three races, in a tie, a Moth and a GP 14, both having places of 5th, 6th and 9th.
On corrected times the final result was a victory for the GP 14 sailed by E. Jenkyn and crewed by J. Tiddy.
The day ended with a barbeque in the clubhouse where trophies were presented.
St. Ives Sailing Club.
SISC’s three boats were successful in the recent Penzance Sailing Club’s Regatta. The dinghies, GP 14 class were placed first, second and third.
In first place; Helm Wilf Stone, crew Maureen Stevens; second place Helm Edward Jenkyn, crew Jonothan Tiddy and third Helm John Hudson, crew Robin Nance.
1985
March
Dinghy boys rescued.
Two 17-year-old St. Ives boys, Gary Parkes and Richard Stevens, were rescued by a helicopter from RNAS Culdrose after their dinghy capsized off St. Ives Head on Saturday, due to a broken tiller.
The boys climbed onto the upturned hull of the dinghy from which they were winched into the helicopter. They were flown to Treliske Hospital, Truro suffering from hypothermia from which they quickly recovered.
June
SISC news.
Last Saturday afternoon saw a sudden increase in the number of boats on the water in the penultimate race of the Saturday Spring Series. Ten boats crossed the start line and although only eight of them managed to complete the course in the fluky NW winds, there was a very close race with John Tomlinson eventually coming out on top on corrected time.
However, John Palser finished 19 seconds behind with Edward Jenkyn third and Joe Poynton fourth. Only 49 seconds separated the first four boats creating an exciting situation for the last race of the series next Saturday as any of these four could be overall winners on points.
The season long Wednesday Series continued last week after a setback for the weather with John Palser winning in very tight winds from Joe Poynton and John Tomlinson.
The club is offering to run sailboard races this season with an entry fee of 50p per board which includes a temporary out day club membership allowing a drink in the bar in the evening of the race.
August
September
1986
July
Scillies race dominated by St. Ives S.C.
SISC dominated this year’s P.A.S.A.B. (Penzance around Scilly and back) Yacht Race. The half-ton racing yacht “Humphrey” sailed by Joe Poynton and Greg Peck took five of the nine trophies, including first overall, first (line honours) and first in the over 30’ class.
The whole three days of racing was sailed in strong winds from the west and the southwest and was covered by BBC Southwest who closely followed the fortunes of the largest entry, Peter Philips giant transatlantic catamaran “Novanet 1.” This boat was so massive that the mast top was frequently lost in the low clouds which persisted throughout most of the race.
The 20 boats which left Penzance for the night crossing on July 27th included the Harbour Pool Club’s entry “Le Bunge,” Mike Bradbury and Gareth Saunders “Pipit,” John Palser’s “Rosemary,” and John Harvey’s Premiere.”
The “Round Scillies” leg for the Venus cup was won by “Humphrey,” but only minutes separated her from “Premiere” at this stage.
The race back to Penzance started in a force-6 south- westerly with heavy rain and rough seas. The first boats had reached Wolf Rock by mid-day when the course change allowed spinnakers to be flown. The steep following seas produced some phenomenal speeds with “Humphrey” touching 18.1 knots at one point.
After three days and 150 miles of racing, only 5 minutes separated “Premiere” from “Humphrey,” who set up a new course record, beating the previous one by more than 2 hours.
August
Testing conditions for St. Ives regatta.
A small fleet braved the elements last Saturday to take part in the annual regatta organised by SISC. There were three races all on handicap, sailed in strong winds and a heavy swell which worsened through the day.
The morning race gave the Lasers the opportunity to show their paces, Gary Parkes was unlucky to capsize early on, but still managed second place behind Joe Poynton (Laser), beating John Culver’s “Wet and Windy” (Enterprise) by a few seconds on corrected time.
The worsening weather in the afternoon saw the Lasers frequently capsizing, to give better conditions for the larger two-man boats. Two boats sustained damage and needed assistance of the safety boat before they too ran into difficulties, requiring a tow back to harbour.
Prizes were presented by the club president, Don Stevens, at the clubhouse in the evening. Joint first prize went to Joe Poynton (Laser) and Gary Parks (Laser). The third prize went to John Culver’s Enterprise, crewed by his daughters Kate and Bridget, and the fourth prize went to Edward Jenkyn (G.P. 14) crewed by Jonathan Tiddy.
October
Sailing club prize giving.
SISC was packed on Saturday for the annual prize giving and laying-up supper. Prizes were presented by St. Ives Mayor, Mr. Mike Peters. The Florence Cup for first place in the summer series going to club commodore Joe Poynton. Gary Parks took the Wednesday and Autumn trophies as well as the Ship-wrecked Mariners Charity pennant. Other prizes went to Edward Jenkyn (1st G.P.14 class), Mike Hutchinson (junior helm), Lee and Donna Parks (junior crew).
The President’s Award went jointly to Robin Nance and John Hudson, whilst Gina Sadler and her husband Bob took the Snapdragon Cup and the Commodore’s Cup respectively.
The Commodore reported that the season had been very successful with a good turnout of boats right up to the end. The mild Autumn however, had been in marked contrast to the early part of the year when a succession of gales had forced the cancellation of the Spring Series.
The club is now embarking on an active winter programme with the aim of getting more younger members of the community to take an interest in sailing and take part in the 1987 series.
1987
August
St. Ives Sailing Club Regatta Day results
On Saturday 8th was the annual regatta. The first race started at 11.00 a.m. with fourteen boats taking part on a 2-lap starboard course, wind force 0-1. A misinterpretation of the course by some of the competitors meant that six crews had to be disqualified. An unfortunate capsize by Edward Jenkyn (G.P.14) was the only mishap of the day. Placing’s were 1st John Culver, Jonathan Tiddy (both Enterprise), 3rd Don Stevens (G.P.14).
Race 2 started at 2.40 p.m. over 3 laps on a shortened course, wind strength the same. First to the mark was Gary Parks (Laser) who held the lead the duration of the race. Second to finish was John Culver and third was Gordon Cox (Redwing).
Race 3 was started at 4.50 p.m. wind conditions westerly 2, two laps were sailed over a port course. Thirteen competitors took part and first to the mark was Joe Poynton. Positions at the first line were: 1st Joe Poynton (Laser), 2nd Jonathan Tiddy, 3rd John Culver.
Over-all class racing results were Laser class: John Palser (2.75 pts), G.P.14: Edward Jenkyn (1.5 pts), handicap racing: John Culver (2.75 pts).
November
St. Ives Sailing Club’s annual prize giving.
SISC’s supper and annual prize giving took place at the Regent Hotel on Tuesday.
Awards were presented as follows: Summer Series: Jonathan Tiddy (10.5 pts), Edward Jenkyn (30 pts), David Watson (34.5 pts).
Saturday Autumn Series: Gordon Cox (5.5 pts), Edward Jenkyn (23 pts), David Willis (26.75 pts).
Wednesday Series: Jonathan Tiddy (29 pts), John Culver (52.25 pts), Mike Hutchinson (54 pts).
Jonathan Tiddy won the Junior Helmsman’s trophy for the season.
The G.P.14 trophy, Stanton cup went to Edward Jenkyn and the Mermaid Trophy to Mike Hutchinson for the best Laser performance.
The President’s Cup this year was awarded to John Petzing for his long stints in the starting office and the Commodore’s Cup to Alan Major for his service in the safety boat.
Winners of the Junior Crew were jointly, Bridget and Katie Culver who also received the “Most willing junior helpers” trophy.
1988
May
SISC Spring Series.
After a long-awaited start for the Spring Series, the first race of the season got under way last Wednesday.
Light north westerly winds saw some fine sailing and close results. First at the mark was
J Poynton (Laser), followed by J Tiddy (Enterprise) in second place and D Peters (Enterprise), third.
July
Boat lost in sailing drama off St. Ives.
SISC experienced its most dramatic day so far this season on Saturday when there were several capsizes and the total loss of one of its boats.
The ill-fated Saturday race was abandoned before it started when an engine fault developed in the safety boat.
But by this time ten boats were already manoeuvring on the starting line in fresh winds of force 5, gusting force 6, with frequent capsizes among the Lasers.
John Hudson’s G.P.14 capsized off Porthgidden, his crew Nadene Parks, transferring to Shaun Peter’s Osprey, “Brother in Arms”.
Her security was short-lived however for Shaun’s boat in turn capsized, the strong tide carrying the upturned craft and crew over a mile out to sea.
With three fishing boats standing by and “Boy Harvey” acting as radio link to the coastguard, Shaun made a valiant attempt to save his boat but after more than an hour he was forced to give up the struggle when his swamped and damaged craft had to be cut adrift in rising seas.
October
SISC rounded off its 1988 season last Saturday with a well-attended laying up supper at the Chy-an-Dour Hotel. (continued)
Club Commodore Don Stevens reported that the season had seen the highest rate of race cancelations through bad weather in the club’s history.
Prizes were presented by guest speaker Inspector Clive Rowe as follows:
Wednesday Series: 1, Joe Poynton: 2, Martin Rawling; 3, Jonathan Tiddy.
Saturday Series: 1, Edward Jenkyn; 2, Martin Rawling; 3, Jonathan Tiddy.
Best G.P. performance, (the Stainton Cup), Edward Jenkyn; Best Laser performance, (the Mermaid Cup), Joe Poynton; Best junior helmsman, Philip Sanger.
Other award winners included Gina Sadler (President’s Cup); Alan Mayor (Commodore’s Cup); Nobby Stevens (Snapdragon Mug); James Watson (Junior Crew Trophy) and Bridget and Katie Culver (Junior Helpers Trophy).
1989
April
Sailing Club out for more young members.
More youngsters with salt in their veins are needed by the St. Ives Sailing Club.
This was the message from the club’s commodore, Mr. Don Stevens, at last Friday’s AGM held at the Chy an Dour Hotel.
Mr. Stevens told the 26 members who attended that although he had said last year that the club hoped to attract more junior members this had not happened. However, the commodore felt that the last 12 months had been good ones for the club with social occasions reasonably well attended. After a slow start sailing had gone very well.
“The regatta was well attended,” said Mr. Stevens. “Everybody had a thoroughly good day apart from the capsizes and gear breakage in the last race.”
The club’s financial position was quite good, Mr. Stevens told the meeting, even although money had been spent on a new rack for the Lasers and for renovation of the safety boat, something he felt sure everyone would approve of.
Mr. Stevens thanked all the Flag Officers and committee members for their support during the year.
“I hope that this year we get more members and happy sailing,” said Mr. Stevens who will again serve as commodore for the next 12 months although he told the meeting he would not be standing the year after.
Vice Commodore for the coming year is Mr. Alan Major with Mr. B. Sadler as Rear Commodore; J. Hudson, hon. Treasurer; J. Parks, hon. Secretary. Committee members; E. Jenkyn, M. Hudson, M. Hutchinson, J Tiddy, M. Rawling.
July
The last race was three laps on a reverse triangular course. Tight bunching at the start boxed in the visiting Lasers and enabled local Laser helm, Joe Poynton, to get clear to windward.
The fleet quickly spread out as some of the St. Ives boats, making use of local knowledge, tacked among the rocks at Porthminster Point to stay out of the strong tide and give themselves some of the best results of the day.
This year’s event was sponsored by the Regent Hotel, Barclay Bank, Peter de Savary and Windansea.
At the prizegiving, the club commodore, Don Stevens, thanked Alan Major, the crew of the rescue boat and Hugh (Robbie) Robbins, the officer of the day and his assistant, John Petzing, for their services during the races. He also thanked Bob and Gina Sadler for organising the catering.
Trophies and prizes were presented to the following; Redwing Shield (class race) : Desmond Hocking (Looe S.C.). Laser class: Paul Bromfield (Mounts Bay S.C.) £15 donated by Windansea and a t-shirt donated by The Leisure Dept. Penwith Council. Overall handicap: Desmond Hocking (Looe S.C.) £50 donated by Regent Hotel. 2nd and overall handicap; Derek Hocking (Looe S.C.) Helm and Crew Miniature Shields. The Peter de Savary Trophy (donated by Mr. Peter de Savary): for the first St. Ives boat on handicap, Joe Poynton and £25 donated by Barclay Bank. 2nd on handicap: J. Culver and Miss B. Culver, Miniature Shields.
November
Sailing Club’s laying-up supper.
The annual laying-up supper and prize-giving of the S.I.S.C. was held last Friday at Ocean Breezes Hotel. The commodore, Mr. Donald Stevens read from the roll of honour and thanked the club for a very good season of sailing, Mr. R. Robbins for his work as O.O.D and Mr. Alan Major for his services as the safety boat helm.
Mrs. Maureen Stevens, the club’s first lady presented the prizes as follows:
Spring Series: 1, Mark Rawling; 2, Joe Poynton; 3, D. Stevens.
Summer Series: 1, Edward Jenkyn; 2, Jono Tiddy; 3, M. Rawling.
Wednesday Evening Series: 1, E. Jenkyn; 2, M. Rawling; Equal 3rd, J. Tiddy and D. Peters.
Special awards were presented to: Mr. Robbie Robbins (Presidents Cup) and to Mrs. Maureen Stevens, (Commodores Cup).
Other awards for outstanding seamanship went to Edward Jenkyn and John Hudson (Golden Bailer award), and to Mrs. Maureen Stevens (Backward Somersault award for drying out).
Edward Jenkyn received the Florence Cup for outstanding performance in all three series and John Hudson the Mermaid Trophy for unstinting services as club’s treasurer.
1990
May
Sailing starts.
S.I.S.C. started its 1990 series last Saturday in bright sunshine with a ‘drifter’, very light winds and a strong tide.
The race was a single lap of a triangular course, Smeaton’s Pier to Porthminster Point, out to the bay mark and back to Smeaton’s Pier.
The first leg was downwind with a small fleet tightly bunched behind ‘Bougalonsa’ (John Meardon) first around the mark.
The second leg, out to the Bay mark was against the light wind and the strong tide and required all the skill and concentration from helmsmen and crews to make headway.
By the second mark the lead had passed to ‘Laser’ (Joe Poynton) who went on to win.
Results: 1st, ‘Laser’ (Joe Poynton) ; 2nd, ‘Bougalonsa’ (John Meardon). The remainder of the fleet retired.
July
S.I.S.C.’s Regatta preparations.
Preparations are well in hand for S.I.S. C’s annual regatta on Saturday, July 21st. The first race will start at 11a.m., the second at 1.30 p.m. with the third to follow on. The club has been successful in getting sponsors and there is £150 in cash prizes to be won.
There will be a prize for the winner of each class raced (minimum four boats); a prize for those sailing on handicaps; and the Peter de Savary Cup for the St. Ives boat that does best overall.
Prize-winning will again be at the Masonic Hall at 7.20 p.m. The mayor will present the prizes.
Catering will be by Joan Symons. The cost of the meal is £5.25. Those wishing to attend are asked to phone Bob Sadler.
October
1991
May
Sailing Club rent concern.
S.I.S.C is faced with a £1,400 rent bill from Penwith on its dinghy pen at the Sloop car park.
And club officials say they are afraid that members will find the increased costs too much to bear.
But after a meeting of Penwith’s Property Subcommittee last week there is a glimmer of hope that a reduction in the projected rental may be likely.
The rental of the dinghy pen changed dramatically in 1989 along with other council owned sites and buildings after Penwith carried out a ‘market value’ review of properties under Government rules.
The market value rent on the dinghy pen was estimated at £1,400 annually.
In the first year Penwith subsidised the rent which was reduced to £900.
In 1990-91 subsidy reduced the rent to £500.
But for the year 1991-92 Penwith is seeking full rental of £1,400.
Commodore of the Sailing Club Mr. Alan Major believes that the club could suffer as younger members especially, found themselves unable to meet rising costs.
But if the sailing club declined because of such financial strictures St. Ives itself and the many visitors who enjoy watching yachts in the bay would also lose out, Mr. Major believes.
“The club brings many benefits to the community”, said Mr. Major. “It is an ideal outlet for youngsters and gives pleasure to many local people simply from an onlookers point of view. During the summer regular sailing activities in the bay also contribute to the kind of backdrop that visitors expect of St. Ives”.
Now Mr. Major and his colleague’s worries may be eased.
Penwith’s Director of Public Services, Mr. Hugh Murton confirmed this week that the council’s Property Services Committee had discussed the matter on Tuesday night.
Mr. Murton said that Penwith was interested in acquiring a small section of the dinghy pen at the Sloop car park for essential use in connection with street cleaning.
Mr. Murton added that his department would be in touch with the sailing club to discuss a possible agreement on the issue which could result in a reduction in the projected rental for next year.
July
S.I.S.C hosted GP14 Crews from Weir Quay on the river Tamar on Sunday and after the visitors had become familiar with the sailing conditions within the bay, they won both races convincingly.
St. Ives Edward Jenkyn took 4th and 5th over the day with his GP “High Jinks”.
Later a reception was held for the visitors with food supplied by club members.
The commodore, Alan Major thanked all who took part and hoped a return visit could be arranged in the near future.
St. Ives Regatta
For St. Ives Sailing Club Regatta on Saturday, three races were held each consisting of three laps over a triangular course.
The first race began at 11.30 a.m. in force 2/4 with very poor visibility. It was originally intended that this race was to be four laps, but the Officer of the Day (Tony Oliver, Mounts Bay S.C.) decided to shorten it as the wind speed varied considerably. 17 boats competed.
The second race started at 2.30 p.m. The wind speed was again variable but freshening.
The third race started immediately after the finish of the second race with 18 boats in each of these races. The wind freshened considerably during the last race, to force 5.
There was class racing in Lasers, Enterprises, Mirrors, GP14s and handicap. Safety boats: St. Ives Coxswain, Commodore Alan Major assisted by Naomi Peek. Mounts Bay Coxswain, Geoff Woolcock was assisted by Amanda Woolcock.
Results; Laser – 1st Paul Whitehead; Mirrors – Andrew Harris and lady crew; Enterprises – Phil O’Neill with lady crew; GP14s – Ashley Royston with crew Maureen Stevens; 1st St. Ives boat on handicap – Robert Tully, Laser.
The presentation of prizes was at the Masonic Hall where an enjoyable meal prepared by Bob and Gina Sadler, assisted by Marjorie Peek concluded the day’s proceedings.
Prizes were presented by the Mayor, Mrs. B. James who was accompanied by her consort, the Rev. William Leah and Penwith councillor, Kathleen Matthews.
The Sailing Club are grateful to firms, businesses and individuals for sponsorship of the Regatta: Mr. and Mrs. K Varnals, Hot Tuna Surf Shop, Mr. W. Parish, Drews, E.P. Curnows,
St. Ives Motor Co, P.D.C., Glower Studios and Western National Bus Co.
September
Alan Major Commodore of St. Ives Sailing Club expressed thanks on the club’s behalf to St. Ives and Falmouth Coastguards, the crew of the ILB and the local fishermen who gave assistance to the crews of dinghies who found themselves in difficulties during last Saturday’s racing.
“This incident lends weight to any opposition to lookout closures here in St. Ives and it was comforting for the crews to know that a visual watch was kept on them,” said Alan.
October
1992
July
Thieves steal Sailing Clubs outboard.
Mean thieves put a halt on S.I.S.C.’s events last Saturday when they stole an outboard motor from the rescue craft.
A reward is being offered by the club for information which would lead to the person or people responsible being caught.
The incident took place at the dinghy pen in the Sloop car park last Saturday during the early hours of the morning. An appeal has gone out for anyone who might have seen someone trying to remove the motor from the craft. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Commodore on (0736) 796520.
This Saturday the sailing club will be holding their annual regatta in St. Ives Bay. The first race will be at 11.30am followed by two races in the afternoon.
This year, Redwings from Looe will be paying a welcome visit and it is hoped that around 20
boats will be taking part in the day’s races.
July
St. Ives Regatta.
TAKING THE STRAIN: Off Porthminster Beach on Saturday is St. Ives Sailing Club member Dave Peters (helmsman) and crew Dave Bennett in their GP 14 ‘Archipelago’ who were taking part in the club’s annual Regatta.
The first race commenced at 11.30. The race officer was Mr. H. Robins. The course was 3 laps to port and the wind was south southwesterly Force 5 with gusts to Force 7. There were 16 starters and 9 boats retired. The boats were as follows: 2 GP14, 2 Enterprises, 2 Lasers, 2 Toppers, 2 Mirrors, 6 Redwings (Looe S.C.). First in is race was a Redwing, with B. Coote at the helm, the sail number was 205.
The second race commenced at 2 pm. The wind freshened and after consultation with both the local coastguard, the inshore lifeboat and the club safety boat it was decided to abandon this race.
The third race scheduled to follow immediately was cancelled.
The Vice-Chairman of Penwith District Council, Mr. Alan Harvey, presented the awards in the evening at the Masonic Lodge.
The Redwing Shield plus the shield which is kept as a memento was presented to B. Coote, a Redwing from Looe S.C.
First on handicap was an Enterprise from Mount’s Bay S.C. helmed by Alex Morcumb with crew Stan Taylor, they each received a shield.
First local boat was a Topper, sailed by Mike Cook. He received the Peter de Savary Cup for the first home boat, a shield to keep as a memento and Western National Explorer bus ticket kindly donated by the Western National.
The Commodore, Mr. Alan Major thanked all those who had entered particularly those from visiting clubs, the Redwings from Looe who had made quite a long journey to attend. Also, those attending from the Penzance and Mount’s Bay clubs; the local inshore lifeboat and coastguard for their assistance which is always very much appreciated.
Mr. Tony Oliver, Commodore of Mount’s Bay Sailing Club, replied thanking the host club for their hospitality and the evening concluded with a most enjoyable buffet.
Mike Cook with the Peter De Savary Cup
October
S.I.S.C. held its laying-up supper at the Masonic Hall on Thursday, October 8. Although the season had been a disaster regarding weather and sea conditions, the same amount of races as last year were achieved and the results were as follows.
Saturday Series: 1st boat, Enterprise, helm, Mermaid Trophy, A. Wesley; crew, Alan Major Cup, R. Symons. 2nd boat, GP14, helm, Stainton Cup, E. Jenkyn; crew, Beryl James Cup,
M. Peters.
Wednesday Series: 1st boat, Enterprise, helm, Florence Cup, A. Wesley; crew, Snapdragon Trophy, R. Symons. 2nd boat, Laser, Spring Series Trophy, J. Poynton.
Best Junior Helm: Mark Meardon, Junior Champions Trophy. Best Junior Crew, Mark Rawling, Junior Helmsman Trophy. Hugh Robins: Services to the club, Chairmans Cup. Tony Oliver (Commodore Mounts Bay), Services to the club, Commodores Cup.
Mr Tony Oliver, (Commodore Mounts Bay S.C.), presented the prizes and thanking him for his help during the 1992 season, Alan Major the St. Ives Commodore presented Tony with the Commodores Cup.
The Commodore thanked all those who made it possible during the season especially Don and Maureen Stevens for their help.
1993
February
CATCHING THE WIND: Redwings from Looe Sailing Club off the harbour in St. Ives Bay, when they took part in St. Ives Sailing Club’s annual regatta last year.
The Redwing Association has accepted the invitation of the St. Ives Sailing Club to hold their National Championships in St.Ives Bay in late August 1994.
Built just after the war by UFFA Fox, most of these craft are located at Looe, a few in South Wales and America.
This will be the first time S.I.S.C. has gone national. The club has already had a fundraising event at the Hoi Tin Restaurant to raise money to help with the expense involved with the hosting of these championships.
The Looe Redwings have consistently supported the St. Ives Sailing Club Regatta
About 20 boats will be expected and apart from the usual races, shore activities will be organised by the host club. Activities will probably take the form of pushball competitions, a musical evening and formal evening with presentations.
May
Redwing National Championships
St. Ives hoteliers have given an enthusiastic reception to news that the Redwing Association will hold its national championships in the town next year.
The St. Ives Hotel and Guest House Association wished the St. Ives Sailing Club, which invited the association to the town, the best of luck in what they see as a major attraction for St. Ives.
Keith Varnals, Chairman, said there could be between 20 or 30 boats in St. Ives during the event.
“S.I.S.C. has been trying to break into the big time for quite a while and jolly good luck to them,” said Mr. Varnals.
If all goes well, this will be the first time the St. Ives club has broken into such a national event. A fundraising event has already been held at the Hoi Tin Restaurant to host the event which is expected to cost £2,000.
At their last meeting the hoteliers decided that they will support the event, but no decision has been made on whether they will give money to it.
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Report, Mike Cook Commodore 1993-4
In 1992 St. Ives Sailing Club decided to invite the Redwings to hold their National Championships at St. Ives in 1994. In 1993 the sailing club’s Redwing Sub Committee asked the Redwing Association for a list of their requirements for a successful event. When the Sub Committee looked at them, it became obvious the club could not meet the requirements. The club had very little changing area, no showers, no club house and not enough willing helpers available for the week’s event. A vote was taken, and it was decided to write to the Redwing Association immediately making them aware of our findings and recommend they find an alternative venue.
July
St. Ives Sailing Club Regatta
S.I.S.C. held its annual regatta last Saturday with 19 boats competing in two of three races.
The first race saw very little wind in the first 20 minutes but a slight northwest breeze got the boats moving and by the end of this race a good three to four gave commanding leads to the Laser classes followed by Enterprises and GP14s, with the odd Mirror dinghy dotted about the course.
The wind held for the rest of the day and gave Mounts Bay and Mirrors from Penzance Sailing Club some good places.
St. Ives member Tony Oliver took first place on all three races for the GP14s crewed by Maureen Stevens and watched by her husband Donald Stevens who this year dropped out in favour of a younger man.
The results were as follows: Classes of GP14s won by Tony Oliver and Maureen Stevens.
Lasers won by P. Whitehead; Mirrors won by Mr. Kent and crew; 1st handicap: Alex Morcume sailing ‘Enterprise’; joint 2nd handicap: M. Woolcock and Mr. Kent sailing Mirror dinghies.
The Peter de Savary Trophy for best St. Ives boat was won by helm Tony Oliver and crewed by Maureen Stevens in the GP14 class.
The youngest member of St. Ives club was Mark Meardon who won a shield for his enthusiasm in all three races.
The prizes were given by Mrs. Sonia Menadue, vice-chairman of Penwith District Council.
The evening was ended with a regatta supper which was held at the Masonic Hall.
October
Laying up Supper
The Sailing Club held its annual laying up supper and prize giving at the Masonic Hall on Saturday, October 16th. The sailing awards were as follows: Wednesday Series; The Spring Series, 1st Joe Poynton; 2nd Mike Cook, Snapdragon Trophy. For the Saturday Series: 1st Martin Rawling, Mermaid Trophy. Mark Rawling, Laurance Moran Trophy.
The best overhaul GP14 class went to Edward Jenkyn, Stainton Cup and crew Mike Peters, Commodore Alan Major Cup. Mark Meardon for the most enthusiastic junior, Ships Wheel Trophy and the Junior Helm Trophy.
Joe Poynton overhaul winner for Wednesday and Saturday Series, Florence Cup.
Dave Peters and Viv Lewis the Commodores Cup for their enthusiasm of sailing, Alan Major, the Chairman’s Cup for club work above and beyond the call of duty.
1994
July
St. Ives Sailing Club Regatta
S.I.S.C. held its annual regatta on Saturday July 16th. The forecasted winds, 4-5 NE, did not materialise and most of the boats found it hard going over the two races held during the day. The last race was abandoned due to lack of wind but overall, the visiting clubs which made up 20 boats had a good days sailing.
At the prize giving held at the Masonic Lodge the commodore Mike Cook thanked all who took part and made reference to Tony Oliver for setting the various courses, Don Stevens safety boat and Alan Major officer of the day, for the hard work they put in.
The wining boats were as follows: Lasers, 1, D. May; 2 M. Woolcock. Enterprise class: 1, H. Glanville; 2, R.J. Smith. GP14 class: 1, E. Campbell and M. Stevens; 2, D. Peters and J. Meardon. Overhaul handicap: 1, R.J. Smith; 2, D. May.
Top St. Ives helm, Peter de Savary Cup: Dave Peters helm, John Meardon crew. Sailing GP14s, Stuart Jones for enthusiasm.
October
Laying up supper
The club held its ‘Laying up’ Supper and end of season awards on Saturday October 29th at the Masonic Hall. The commodore Mike Cook thanked all those present and presented the awards to the following winners for the Wednesday Series: 1, Mike Cook; 2, Joe Poynton.
Saturday Series: 1, Joe Poynton; 2, Edward Jenkyn.
The converted Florence Cup for the overhaul series was retained by Joe Poynton. Robin Stevens won the Junior Helm Trophy, Dave Peters and John Meardon won the GP Trophy. Viv Lewis won the Commodore’s Cup for enthusiasm and Alan Major, Sailing Sec, was awarded the Chairman’s Cup for services to the club. An enjoyable meal was provided by the men of the club which gave the ladies a well-earned rest. The evening was rounded off with two videos taken during this summer’s sailing.
1995
June
St. Ives Regatta
St. Ives Regatta.
Two races were held in the bay with moderate NE Force 3-4 winds giving way to medium swells. Both races were dominated by Laser helms followed by the sturdier GP14 class. The afternoon race was held back for a while due to lack of wind. However, a sight of wind in Ed Jenkyn’s GP soon put the race in order. Once again, the Lasers stole the show.
The results were: 1st, Mike Cook, the overall winner, taking the Peter de Savary Trophy (Laser); 2nd, James Taylor and Greg Halkes (Mirror); 3rd, Mark Meardon (Laser); Edward Jenkyn and Jonno Tiddy (GP14).
Prize giving was held at the Masonic Hall. The Commodore Alan Major thanked all who had helped to make the day a success and to all the traders who donated raffle prizes.
November
St. Ives Sailing Club awards night.
S.I.S.C. held its annual laying-up awards night at the Masonic Hall recently. The club’s sailing secretary Viv Lewis announced the winners for the 1995 season: Saturday Series, 1st, Dave Peters; 2nd Mark Meardon. Wednesday Series: 1st, Dave Peters; 2nd, Mark Meardon. The GP14 winners were Dave Peters and John Meardon. The boat with the most first places went to Mark Meardon; Best Juniors to the Williamson daughters. The Commodore Alan Major presented the Commodore’s Cup to Ray Darlison for services to the club. The Chairman’s Cup went to Andy Rosarieux for being the most enthusiastic member; The most enthusiastic junior crew member was Aaron Rawling.
1996
February
June
St. Ives Regatta sails again
St. Ives Sailing Regatta, which has had a chequered history, is being resurrected by the owner of the Sloop Inn, Mr. Maurice Symons, initially as a weekend event for this year, but hopefully gaining enough support to become a weekly annual event in years to come.
The news has been welcomed by the Mayor of St. Ives Cllr, Joan Symons and the S.I.S.C.s commodore Alan Major. Cllr. Symons said: “I think every encouragement should be given to this sort of thing, after all we are a sea town. We should encourage water sports, and it’s going to be an extra activity for the holiday makers to enjoy.”
The main events of the weekend will be a race of yachts from Mounts Bay S.C.s headquarters in Penzance to St. Ives on Saturday 22 June, with the return journey being made on the following day. It is hoped the race will attract 30 entries from members of sailing clubs across Cornwall and will involve craft between 20 and 40 feet in length. There will also be races held by S.I.S.C., during the two days, in St. Ives Bay. On the Sunday, pilot gigs will be racing from St. Ives Harbour into the bay and back, starting and finishing close to the harbour entrance.
Mr. Symons, organising the event, said there were two reasons for reviving the regatta: “I’ve lived in St. Ives all my life and saw the demise of the regatta. We are a town by the sea, and we should be proud of what we have here and make use of it.” The other reason, said Mr. Symons, was that it would bring in extra money into the town at a time when the season has not got fully under way: “It’s hoped it will attract the money into the town through pubs, restaurants and shops.”
Mr. Alan Major commented: It is a good idea to revive something again, especially sailing,” He added that some members of S.I.S.C. will be taking part in the races around Land’s End and that there will be three dinghy races in St. Ives Bay on Saturday and one on Sunday.
The New Florence Cup
A ‘New Florence Cup’ to replace the original Florence Cup donated by Mr. Walter Isaac 50 years ago in memory of his wife Florence, will be among trophies to be raced for in the revived St. Ives Regatta on June 22nd.
A letter to the ‘Times & Echo’ last autumn from Mrs. Jill Paton Walsh, granddaughter of Florence Isaac, sparked off an inquiry into the whereabouts of the original cup. It was discovered that the cup, which had been lost from sight after the collapse of the former annual regatta, is now being raced for under the auspices of the Sail Training Association. Mrs. Paton Walsh has donated the new cup to St. Ives Sailing Club, to be competed for in a race of suitable prominence and retained for a year by the winner. She will make the first presentation herself on the evening of June 22nd.
Mrs. Paton Walsh said yesterday, “I lived with my grandparents in St. Ives as a child during the war and have always felt strong affection for them and for the town. I am quite happy that the original Florence Cup is with the Sail Training Association, but I should like my grandmother to be commemorated by a trophy that is special to the town of St. Ives.” She has also provided a fund from which an annual cash award will be made.
Jill Paton Walsh, a well-known novelist and runner up for the 1994 Booker Prize, is a fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and was awarded the CBE in this year’s New Year Honours. She lives in St. Ives part of the year and is at present working on a novel set in the town.
Regatta Day
Edward Jenkyn (center)
Richard Stevens (Solo). Aaron and Martin Rawling (Day boat)
(Froggy) Mike Peters and (Beachy) Dave Peters (not related)
(Photo-Cornishman)
The St. Ives Sailing Club’s Regatta as part of a two day water sports event last weekend, was heralded as a success by organisers this week, with near perfection conditions for the occasion. During the weekend dinghies and pilot gig races all took place in St. Ives Bay and cruiser class yachts arrived in the Bay for the finish of the first leg.
In the three dinghy races on Saturday, the one ‘Osprey’ and a good fleet of ‘Lasers’ took commanding positions over the three ‘Mirror’ dinghies and ‘GP14s’. The Florence Cup Race, the second race of the day, the most important race in not only this year’s regatta but for years to come, was watched by the donor of the new cup, Mrs. Paton Walsh. Denzil May taking the honours on this occasion. The Mayor of St. Ives Cllr. Joan Symons presented the prizes on Saturday evening at the ‘Sloop Inn’.
The results of the three races were: 1st race; Anna Row; 2nd, Denzil May; 3rd, Colin Stevens. 2nd race: 1st, Denzil May; 2nd, Colin Stevens; 3rd, Malcolm Woolcock. 3rd race: 1st, Colin Stevens; 2nd, Malcolm Woolcock; 3rd, Denzil May.
Best under 16-year-old went to William Kent, best Female to Anna Row, best over 50’s to Edward Jenkyn and John Meardon. The 16 and under Florence Cup awards were: 1, William Kent; 2, Charlotte Kent; 3, Robin Stevens.
October
St. Ives Sailing Club awards
S.I.S.C. held its annual laying up and prize giving at the Masonic Hall on Saturday, October 26th. Commodore Alan Major congratulated all those who helped make the 1996 season such a success. 28 races had been held and good results were gained by up-and-coming members.
The winners were: Overhaul, most first places: John Meardon (The Florence Challenge Trophy). Wednesday Series: 1, David Peters (Beryl James Trophy); 2, Viv Lewis (Spring Series Trophy). Saturday Series: 1, David Peters (Stainton Cup); 2, Viv Lewis (Mermaid Cup). GP14: 1, D. Peters; 2, Andrew de Rosarieux. Best Junior Cup: Aaron Rawling. Most Enthusiastic Members: Martin and Aaron Rawling. Commodore’s Cup: Aaron Rawling. Classic Cup: for the oldest type of boat sailed in the club: Martin Rawling and Aaron Rawling, Y.W. day boat. Porthminster Trophy: V. Lewis for the most Safety boat duties. Smeaton’s Trophy to A. Major for race officer duties.
1997
February
Where do all the S.I.S.C. members go in the winter? That question is easy to answer, at least for Saturday, February 15, as you will find them at their pre-season get together at the Regent Hotel, St. Ives, where a buffet has been arranged for members and their guests.
Commodore Alan Major is hoping to see as many club members as possible attending this buffet and he confidently predicts that many old stories will be exchanged, and new challenges laid down. Members are asked to contact Eileen Lewis for buffet tickets.
March
St. Ives Sailing Club AGM, which took place at the Guildhall on Friday evening, March 22 was well attended.
One of the main items on the agenda for members to discuss and vote on was the merits of the club’s present safety boat and which type of replacement should be purchased. Initial discussion took place around the purchasing of a replacement Dory or replacing this type of boat with a RIB. A third option raised at the meeting was an Orkney Liner. After deliberations members voted for a RIB and it will be necessary to seek funding for this purchase.
The election of officers and committee members took place with the existing committee being re-elected unopposed, although Viv Lewis stood down as Sailing Secretary but remains on the general committee. Don Stevens takes on the task of Sailing Secretary in addition to his duties as Vice Commodore and Mike Cook and Tony Oliver were voted on to the general committee as additional members.
After business was concluded a buffet and wine was enjoyed by all those present.
October
1998
March
St. Ives Sailing Club bid to revitalise
A concerted effort to revitalise St. Ives Sailing Club will be outlined tonight (Friday March 20) at the annual general meeting to be held at Liberties, the Stennack, at 7.30 pm.
The new committee elected at an extraordinary general meeting in January will be standing for re-election. Led by the new Commodore, Martin Rawling, it comprises, Viv Lewis (Vice Commodore), Mike Cook (Sailing Secretary), Ray Darlinson (Secretary), Mrs. Eileen Lewis (Treasurer), Peter Hendry, John Meardon, David Peters, Andy de Rozarieux and Richard Stevens.
“We are seeking to bring new vigour and new blood into the club”, said committee spokesman John Meardon. “We urgently need new members, both sailing and non-sailing. A new shoreline support group is being set up to help with administration and we are looking for a crew to run the safety boat.”
A pre-season sailing shakedown event with informal racing will be held between April 4 and 25, starting at 2.30. p.m. each Saturday. Serious competition begins on May 6 and continues until October 31 (Wednesday evenings and Saturday afternoons). Sunday picnic races will be held on June 7, July 5 and August16, whilst the principal event of the season, the St. Ives Regatta, is scheduled for June 20.
The club which celebrated its silver jubilee last year, offers sailing membership for £10 (£13 for family) and shoreline membership for £5.
(Cornishman)
May
Only 4 boats turned out to compete in warm sunshine and a north westerly force 4. An early retirement with a split drop keel left just 3 starters for the race. The 2 GP14’s enjoyed a very close contest for 2 laps, then on the far mark, a jibe, Andy Rozarieux got the better of Dave Peters and was nearly a minute ahead on the completion of 4 laps, Tim Comley in his Heron battled on and his handicap was only just beaten into third place.
June
Mixed weather for St. Ives Sailing Club’s regatta
A mixed bag of sunshine and showers with a light wind greeted the boats taking part in the regatta last Saturday June 20. Twenty boats from the clubs in Penzance, Mounts Bay, Restronguet and St. Ives started the first race at 10.30 am. The light wind produced an uneventful race with one of the Lasers from Penzance winning. During the short break before the second race the wind picked up which made for a more interesting race with two retirements. An ‘Osprey’ from Mounts Bay was the winner.
The third race was at 3 pm, so all boats came ashore for refreshments. During the break the wind continued to increase, and the fleet was down to 14 boats for the start of a very exciting race with numerous capsizes and pitch poling, keeping both safety boats in action, Alice Moore’s Mirror did a ‘wheelie’, Charlotte Kent’s Mirror was towed in with a broken mast, and Mike Cook lost his mast just after finishing the race. Good work by both safety boats ensured that all returned to shore safely, it was a busy day too for the club officers up in Smeaton’s Tower.
The prize giving took place at 6.30 pm. outside the Sloop with Maurice Symons generously donating the trophies and cash prizes which St. Ives Harbour Master Eric Ward presented. St. Ives Sailing Club thanked the safety boat from Penzance crewed by Paul Kent and Dave Whitehurst and the club safety boat crewed by Malcolm McNamara and Brian Gray, the race officers and all who helped to make the regatta a most enjoyable day.
Results: Race 1: 1, Denzil May (Penzance S.C.); 2, Robin Row (Penzance S.C.); 3, Des Menear (Mounts Bay S.C.). 1st St. Ives boat; Mark Meardon; 2, David Peters; 3, Viv Lewis. Race 2: 1, Des Menear (Mounts Bay S.C.) 2, Robin Row (Penzance S.C.); 3, William Kent (Penzance S.C.) 1st St Ives Boat: Mike Cook; 2, Mark Meardon; 3, David Peters. Race 3: 1, Des Menear (Mounts Bay S.C.); 2, Robin Row (Penzance S.C.); 3, Stuart Matley Jones (Restronguet S.C.). 1st St. Ives boat: Mark Meardon; 2, Mike Cook.
Overall trophies: 1st Florence Cup, Des Menear; 2nd place overall, Robin Row; 3rd Stuart Matley Jones. Peter de Savary Cup; 1st overall St. Ives: Mark Meardon; Best Junior Helm: Alice Moore (Penzance S.C.); Oldest Helm: Viv Lewis (St. Ives S.C.).
S.I.S.C. Wednesday Series.
After the hectic day last Saturday, it was a gentle force 2/3 wind prevailing for the evening race of 4 laps to port.
Mark Meardon in his Laser made a good start but experimenting with his sail he capsized twice, this enabled the GP 14 of Dave and Mike Peters (no relation!) to stay in contention followed by the Mirror of Phil Keightley, the Pico of Richard Stevens then Tim Comley in his Heron. Andy Rozarieux has all boats handicaps in his computer so getting the adjusted times so quickly done.
1, Mark Meardon (Laser); 2, Dave Peters (GP 14); 3, Tim Comley (Heron); 4, Phil Keightley (Mirror); 5, Richard Stevens (Pico). Tim took third place from Phil by just 1 second.
November
December
1999
April
“All is not what it seems”. Mike Cook.
May
Saturday May 1st was the first race of 99, mist inshore nearly cancelled the racing, but it lifted just before the start. Only five boats started in light winds but plenty of enthusiasm made for a good race with Dave and Mike Peters in a GP14 taking first place, Brian Gray in his Fireball was second, Viv Lewis’ Streaker just beat the Solo of Malcolm McNamara for third place with Peter Hendry in his Marauder coming fifth.
Wednesday’s race was in much different conditions with a force 4 wind and choppy seas. Eight boats jostled at the start of a four-lap race to starboard, some exciting racing followed with capsizes aplenty and all crews enjoying the lively conditions. The handicap system brought some surprises: 1, John Meardon, Laser; 2, Dave and Mike Peters, GP14; 3, Mike Cook, Laser; 4, Viv Lewis, Streaker; 5 Tim Comley, Heron; 6, Malcolm McNamara, Solo. Both, Joe Poynton, Laser and Brian Gray, Fireball, retired. Only the first three boats completed four laps as the race was shortened to three laps due to failing light.
June
St. Ives Regatta
(The Cornishman)
S.I.S.C. regatta.
Saturday arrives and the worries about the weather are over, a good wind, favourable tide, overcast but no rain. All arrangements fall into place and at 10.30 sharp the first race started. Seeing 34 boats heading for the first mark was some sight. By the second lap the boats were spread out over the whole course with some terrific racing going right on to the finish. There was just 10 minutes to form up the second race started, the wind had picked up and had the effect of splitting the boats up into two packs, the big boys enjoying the conditions and the smaller boats battling the elements, but all enjoying the competition. On completion of the race all the boats were laid up on the beach for a well-earned break and a pint and a pasty!
The third race started at 3 p.m., the wind was now a good force 4 from the S.W., and a choppy sea causing plenty of capsizes, but the assistance of the three safety boats were not needed, again it was good racing with the smaller boats being lapped by the fast boys, but all sailing to their limits and everyone completing the course.
The prize giving was held outside the Sloop Inn at 6.30.p.m. The wind had now dropped and the sun was shining, a perfect evening.
Des Menear in his Osprey won all 3 races and collected the new Florence Cup. Mike Cook in a Laser was the 1st St. Ives boat in all 3 races, collecting the De Savary Cup.
The St. Ives Sailing Club expressed they’re thanks to everyone who helped to make the regatta a success.
August
Wednesday night’s race was to be for the ‘Eclipse’ trophy and eight boats took to the bay in a force 2 wind from the S.E. However, as the race started the wind fell right away and with the tide on the ebb only 3 boats actually crossed the start line, one boat, a Laser with Martin Rawling at the helm, did complete one lap. All boats were eventually towed in. The club is grateful to Mike and Aaron in the safety boat and the fishermen who helped to tow competitors back to the harbour and to Richard in the tower for his efforts. In all a disappointing end to Eclipse Day.
Mounts Bay Regatta has seen through the eyes of Peter Hendry.
September
Pictured in front of ‘Jambo’ are some of the 1st St. Ives Scout group on an evening visit to St. Ives Sailing Club. Pictured in the Sloop car park showing them the ropes were Mike Cook, David Peters, Philip Cole and Vice Commodore Viv Lewis. The scouts had an enjoyable evening, and the Beavers particularly enjoyed the rescue boat and ‘Trevor’ the tractor. They also visited Smeaton’s Lighthouse to hear the sailing club horn and James Perkin on the portable radio. Both organisations said they were keen to encourage the youth of St. Ives to join in their activities and have some fun.
November
Report Mike Cook
On Friday 13th November a group of five members, Martin Rawling, Aaron Rawling,
Viv Lewis, Dave Peters and Mike Cook, travelled to Freckleton, near Blackpool to purchase a new safety boat. They stayed in a Travel Lodge over night before traveling on to the factory for a successful test run of a Sea Jeep. After which a New Sea Jeep was fitted out to the Club’s requirements. Later that day, the members drove straight home towing the new vessel behind.
Viv Lewis, Dave Peters, Luke Warm (Hot water bottle), Mike Cook and Aaron Rawling. (Photo by Martin Rawling)
Mike Cook, Viv Lewis, Dave Peters, Aaron Rawling with Martin Rawling behind the camera, about to set off home with their new purchase.
December
Mike Cook (Sailing Sec), Martin Rawling (Commodore), Mike and David Peters.
(Photo Terrie Cook)
2000
May
(Cornishman)
Racing.
After losing the last three meetings due to the lack of wind – or too much of it!- the club enjoyed a steady force 4 from the east and enjoyed four laps of exciting racing with six boats starting.
Malcolm McNamara (Solo) was Quick away followed by Dave Peters (GP14), Martin Rawling (Laser), Viv Lewis (Streaker), Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall (Wayfarer), then Tim Comley (Heron), Malcolm (Solo) retired injured, and Tim (heron) was disqualified for an incorrect course. New members Marcus and Peter (Wayfarer) were having a good race and gradually pulled to the front having a duel with the GP14. Martin (Laser) was having trouble at the jibe mark and lost a few places. The safety boat was crewed by Mike Cook and Linda Smith and Tony Hull was in Smeaton’s Tower.
Results: 1, GP14, Dave Peters; 2, Streaker, Viv Lewis; 3, Wayfarer, Marcus Millington; 4, Martin Rawling, Laser; one retired, one disqualified.
June
All the arrangements for St. Ives Regatta had been made and were dependent on weather and spectators, luckily both were excellent, and the first race started on time. 23 boats jostled at the start, and it was a great sight to see all the sails heading for the first mark.
Racing was on class and handicap systems; Lasers from Penzance and Mounts Bay led the way with the St. Ives boys in hot pursuit. There was some great sailing from the Mirror sailors and the St. Ives handicap fleet. It was much the same in the second race.
The afternoon race started at 3 p.m. The course had to be altered due to backing and falling off of the wind which tried the patience of all helms with the visiting boats again leading the way. The prize giving was held outside the Sloop Inn in bright sunshine with the proprietors of Roach’s Garage presenting the prizes.
The stars of the day were Robin Row (PZSC), Matthew Jeffreys (MBSC) both in Lasers and the Crawford brothers Ryan and Lewis (PZSC) in their Mirror who won the handicap classes and the top juniors. Honours were shared by the St. Ives sailors with Martin Rawling, Mike Cook and Joe Poynton each winning a race. Brian Gray getting a second in race 3 and Martyn Thompson (Graduate) splitting the Lasers in race 2.
Charlotte Kemp and Clare Sharp (PZSC) taking 2nd and 3rd places overall. Robin Row won the New Florence Cup, Mike Cook won Peter de Savary Cup for best St. Ives boat.
The St. Ives Sailing Club committee felt the day had gone very well and thanked everyone for their support, including the safety boat crew, the visiting sailors and their sponsors St. Ives Motors, Roach’s Garage and Maurice Symons.
December
2001
April
Wednesday April 11: Having lost two race meetings due to bad weather, this was the first race of the year. There was a moderate sea, a steady force 2 from the North and nine boats at the start mark. True to form it was Mike Cook leading the fleet into the first lap closely followed by Martin Rawling, both in Lasers. The Wayfarer of Marcus Millington came next then Joe Poynton in his Laser. Dave and Mike Peters in their GP14 were doing well, keeping ahead of Martyn Thompson (Laser) and latest member, John Palser (Laser), next came Martin Goodman (Marauder) and Viv Lewis now sailing a Heron.
Results: 1, Mike, 2, Martin Rawling, 3, Marcus, 4, Joe, 5, Dave Peters, 6, Martyn Thompson, 7, Martin Goodman. Both John and Viv were disqualified for passing the wrong side of the inshore mark. Bill Riley sailed but did not race.
Saturday, April 14 was a wet afternoon, with a low tide, calm sea and a force 3-4 from the S.W. A good course had been set up by Tony Hull, and it was Martin Rawling who lead the way, Brian Gray and Mike Cook were dicing for second place, Marcus in the Wayfarer was up with the Lasers and gave his Spinnaker it’s first airing. John Palser was having a good race as was Aaron Rawling (Laser Radial). Vicky Nash was back in her Topper. Viv Lewis (Heron) managed to hold off Martin (Marauder) until the last lap before being lapped! A good afternoon’s sailing by all.
Results: 1, Martin, 2, Mike, 3, Brian (Laser), 4, Marcus, 5, John, 6, Aaron, 7, Martin Goodman, 8, Viv.
June
There was a good turnout for Wednesday’s race and from the start it was the Wayfarer of Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall who got away first, but at the first mark they were caught and passed by Brian Gray, closely pursued by Mike Cook and Martin Rawling, all in Lasers. By the third lap Martin Rawling had taken the lead, John Palser sailed well to catch and pass Mike Cook. Simon Burgess was sailing single-handedly in the Miracle and going well, Bill Riley in the Solo successfully completed the course for the first time. Results: 1, Martin Rawling, 2, John Palser, 3, Mike Cook, 4, Brian Gray, 5, Simon Burgess, 6, Vicky Nash, 7, Aaron Rawling, 8, Marcus & Peter, 8, Andy Rozarieux, 10, Bill Riley.
July
Racing
On Wednesday evening there was a bit of a chop with a westerly wind, force 4-5. The fleet consisted of five Lasers, a Wayfarer, a Miracle and a Marauder. John Palser took the lead from the start. The first lap claimed two boats, the Laser of Joe Poynton with gear failure and Simon Burgess (Miracle) after a long capsize. Mike Cook, Martyn Thompson and Martin Rawling (Lasers) were dicing for second place, along with Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall (Wayfarer). Results: 1, John Palser, 2, Martin Rawling, 3, Mike Cook, 4, Marcus and Peter, 5, Martyn Thompson.
On Saturday the decision was made to sail in lively conditions and eight boats were launched. The capsizes started inside the harbour and Aaron Rawling had to retire before the start with a broken boom. There was more trouble at the first mark when Tim Comley (Heron) capsized and Mike Cook, who was crew in the safety boat, had to go over the side to assist him. He was finally beached before John Palser had to be assisted to right his Laser due to another broken boom. The radio alerted the safety crew to another Laser in trouble in rough conditions, Brian Gray climbed aboard the safety boat and Mike Cook sailed the Laser back to the harbour. By now John Palser was sailing with a broken boom and finding he could only sail on a run, so the safety boat chased after him before he ended up in Hayle.
Meanwhile the race continued with Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall (Wayfarer) and David Peters and Peter Hendry (GP14) enjoying the conditions as were the three remaining Lasers of Martin Rawling, Tim Berriman and Martyn Thompson. There was good sailing by these boats with no more calls for assistance. Results: 1, Marcus and Peter, 2, Martin Rawling, 3, Dave and Peter, 4, Tim Berriman, 5, Martyn Thompson. The over worked safety boat had just enough energy left to collect the race marks!
December
2002
April
St. Ives Sailing Club started their racing season on Wednesday, April 3 with good conditions, a force 3-4 fresh from the northwest, a slight swell and the tide on the flood. Terrie Cook and Mike Sadler were crewing the safety boat, now updated with VHF radio. Watching over proceedings from Smeaton’s Tower were Tony Hull and the new sailing secretary, Bill Riley.
All went well at the start with the Lasers leading the way with Brian Gray bringing up the rear. Other boats competing were Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall (Wayfarer), Nick and wife Louise (Marauder), Vicky in her Topper and Tim Comley in the Heron, the Laser sailors were Mike Cook, Martyn Thompson, John Palser and Brian Gray. The Lasers were having a competitive race with Mike Cook in the lead, Brian made up his poor start and was now competing with Martyn for second place, after four laps the race result was 1, Mike Cook, 2, Brian Gray, 3, Martyn Thompson.
May
June
July
On Saturday July 6 John Palser made the best start, Martyn Thompson and Paul Smith in the Graduate in his wake, Martin Rawling, son Aaron and Brian Gray were keeping close company and did so for most of the race with Dave and Andy in the GP14. There was no Wayfarer as Marcus and Peter were manning the safety boat. Martin Potter and dad Richard were out in the 470 but not racing as was Mike Cook with Mary, a new member, having her first sail in the Topaz. Bill Riley in his Solo was racing until a capsize and a buoyancy problem called for a tow in.
Result: 1, Vicky Nash (Topper), 2, Martin Rawling (Laser), 3, Martyn Thompson and Paul Smith (Graduate), 4, Brian Gray (Laser), 5, John Palser (Laser), 6, Aaron (Radial), 7, Dave and Andy (GP14).
December
2003
January
Successful year for St. Ives Sailing Club.
St. Ives Sailing Club has had its most successful year so far. Established in 1972 the club has experienced many ups and downs but is now thriving as never before. This year saw a record number of new member applications, some from families living as far away as London. While on the water the number of boats tuning up to race is also at an all-time high, with 15 dinghies of varying types and classes competing on occasions. In addition, the club has enjoyed the use of the Shamrock fisherman’s lodge on the harbour front. The lodge, with its wall displays of old photographs and pictures of bygone days in St. Ives, offers the perfect setting in which to chat after each race. The club’s committee business is also conducted in the lodge.
Innovation in recent years has seen the purchase of a tractor with which to pull the safety boat to and from the water. In addition, the tractor is useful in recovering the dinghies of the race weary sailors from the beach. It is hoped to replace this with a more powerful four- wheel drive version in the New Year.
Last year the club took possession of a brand-new Topaz sailing dinghy. The Topaz is now the club sail training boat. Over the season the appointed training officer, Mike Cook, has taken time out from racing to oversee the training of others.
More than 20 members of the club completed a VHF radio course in Falmouth earlier in the year. This means that everyone on the safety boat duty rota is now proficient, and licenced, to use VHF radios for contact with the race controller and also to be in easy contact with the emergency services, including Falmouth Coastguard. Falmouth Coastguard are routinely contacted before and after each race to make them aware that sailing club members are using the water outside the safety of the harbour.
The success of the club has meant that space in the club boat pen, situated at the rear of the Sloop car park, is now very much at a premium. Club members have looked at various ways of increasing the capacity of the pen with nothing entirely practical coming to the fore as yet. The club hopes this need may be addressed with the recommendations in the final report for the development proposals for St. Ives harbour. This report, commissioned by Penwith District Council and undertaken by Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Limited, researched the opinions of the local community with respect to the development and way forward for the harbour and surrounding areas. It is hoped that the sailing club will be able to benefit from the enhanced facilities at the Sloop car park.
March
June
St. Ives Sailing Club received a boost of £125 towards club funds on Wednesday June 11 when Porthminster Hotel Manager, Mr Jakes presented the club with a donation from the hotel. Mr. Jakes presented a cheque for the amount which was accepted by Committee member and fundraiser Mr. David Peters, prior to the club’s Wednesday evening racing. The donation was used to purchase new marker buoy mooring lines and anchors, a new buoy to mark the course start lines.
October
On Saturday there was wind force 2 from the south and calm seas. The race officer Bill Riley and Terrie Cook and Peter Berriman were in the safety boat.
There was a good turnout for racing with helms and crews numbering 24 in14 boats. There were mixed fortunes at the start. John Palser was away first again, but the Iso and the GP14 were recalled for being over the start line, the GP14 having to return twice. By the 2nd lap the Iso had got back in front, and the Lark of Simon Burgess and Phil Cole disputing 2nd place with the Lasers of Martin Rawling, John Palser and Brian Gray. Then followed Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall in the Wayfarer and Martyn Thompson and Paul Smith in the 470. The Lark of Mark Paxton was steadily moving up through the fleet, also having a good race were Martin Potter and Daniel Lees in the Laser 2000. The fluky wind was bringing out the best from those racing. John Palser looked to have 2nd place in the bag only to have Martin Rawling get past at the last mark. Also sailing but not racing were Mike Cook giving Roy Appleton some tuition in the Graduate. Daniel in the Topaz and Paul Smith in his Otter.
November
2004
January
April
On Wednesday there were borderline conditions for sailing but the decision to race was taken and some exciting racing was to follow, a good turnout with 12 boats made their way out to the start. The Lark’s race was short-lived as the tiller broke on the first lap and the boat was rowed to shore. Mike Cook had a dramatic capsize, actually taking to the air, when he surfaced, he narrowly avoided being run over by the Laser of John Palser who was right behind him. Martyn Thompson was putting distance between himself and the rest of the fleet until capsizing. Great competition took place between the rest of the boats with Martin Rawling gradually pulling ahead to take first place. Results: 1, M. Rawling, 2, Marcus & Peter, 3, J. Palser, 4, M. Cook, 5, B, Gray, 6, M. Thompson, 7, Aaron Rawling, 8, Andy & David, 9, Martin & Daniel Lees, 10, R. Manley, 11, B. Riley.
On Saturday there were similar conditions with just 9 boats deciding to race. Martyn Thompson took Roy out in his Graduate, they capsized twice but kept going. Aaron Rawling suffered a cut eye during one of his capsizes so Patrick Manley in the safety boat took over for the tow in. The third member of the crew was Rupert Manley, so Aaron was well cared for. During the third lap a squall swept through the bay, catching out most of the boats, even the Wayfarer went over suffering a broken drop keel in the process. The race was shortened, and three Lasers crossed the line in less than 30 seconds. Bill Riley, who was doing well with no capsizes, thought the race was abandoned and came in. Only 5 boats completed the course, they were 1, M. Rawling, 2, J. Palser, 3, M. Cook, 4, Martin & Daniel, 5, Marcus & Peter. Well done to all who sailed, especially the safety boats helm and crew.
May
On Wednesday there was just enough wind for sailing, a gentle force 2 from the N.W. 14 boats went down at the low tide mark preparing to sail including Vick Nash with her Topper, back after her long holiday and Terrie Cook with the Topaz, a change from the safety boat. Sailing his Graduate on his own was Roy Appleton, as was Viv Lewis in the Heron. Daniel Rouncefield had his first sail in a Laser. All got away cleanly from the start, the Wayfarer of Marcus and Peter was just in the lead with five Lasers jostling for places close behind. The race duration was five laps and by the second lap the Wayfarer had pulled out a lead with the fleet of Lasers in pursuit changing positions on each lap, all enjoying a comfortable but competitive race.
Result: 1, Marcus & Peter; 2, Mike Cook; 3, M. Rawling; 4, Simon & Phil (Lark); 5, B. Gray; 6, Vicky Nash; 7, J. Palser; 8, A Rawling; 9, B. Riley; 10 Martyn Thompson & Paul Smith; 11, D. Rouncefield; 12, Viv Lewis; Roy and Terrie both retired.
On Saturday conditions were more testing with a force 3-4 from the N.E. with a choppy swell. There was no outright leader from the start, the Wayfarer, the 470 and the Laser of Martin Rawling all having a spell in the lead. There was a change in roles for Daniel Rouncefield enjoying being out on the trapeze on the 470. Both John Palser and Brian Gray changed to radial rig on their Lasers, Brian did well but John decided to revert to his normal rig. Simon Ashmore had the only capsize during the race.
Result: 1, Marcus & Peter; 2, Martin Rawling; 3, Mike Cook; 4, Brian Gray; 5, Martyn Thmpson & Daniel; 6, John Palser; 7, Aaron Rawling; 8, Bill Riley; 9, Marc Paxton; 10, Simon Ashmore; Daniel Lees sailed the Topaz but did not race.
June
August
September
November
Laying up supper
Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall won the Florence Challenge Trophy for overall winners of 2004. No other information available.
2005
February
The club’s AGM was held this year at the Howards Hotel in Carbis Bay. The main item on the agenda was to elect a new commodore as after three years in office Martin Rawling is standing down, he has guided the club with his leadership and enthusiasm and will be a hard act to follow. The task was accepted by Marcus Millington, and everyone wished him well and every success in his new position.
John Palser takes over the Sailing Secretary’s duties from Bill Riley. All the other positions on the committee were re-elected to serve for another year. After the formal proceedings were completed, there was a break for refreshments. The club were then entertained with a short film put together by Mike and Terrie Cook which consisted of highlights from previous regattas and also a film of the flying display given by the Red Arrows on their last visit to Cornwall. A quiz followed conducted by Bill Riley.
April
On Wednesday nine boats were out for the first race this year. The new start system was successful. All boats being on the right side of the start line on the one minute signal. Marcus and Peter, having their first race in their Osprey, flew past everyone to lead at the first mark hotly pursued by the Lark and the Lasers of Martin Rawling and John Palser. The Osprey then spread its wings and took off into the distance never to be headed with Peter making good use of the trapeze to keep the boat flat. A close battle was taking place behind them between Martin Rawling, John Palser in their Lasers, Martin Potter in the Stratos and Simon Burgess in the Lark. At the start of the last lap the Osprey was leading, followed by the Stratos and the two Lasers. The Stratos had problems with its spinnaker allowing the Lasers to get past going into the beat, however by the upwind mark the Stratos had regained her position and held it to the finish. Aaron Rawling and Mike Cook, both in Radial Lasers had a tussle in the early laps, Mike getting ahead for the finish. Bill Riley had a steady if uneventful race. New members, Keith and Andrea launched their new boat, a Topper Magno but decided not to race until they had got in some practice.
Result: 1, Martin Potter, Statos; 2, Martin Rawling, Laser; 3, John Palser, Laser; 4, Simon Burgess, Lark; 5, Mike Cook, Laser; joint 6th, Aaron Rawling, Laser & Marcus & Peter, Osprey; 7, Bill Riley, Solo.
May
Both club meetings were called off due to high winds last week but on Monday and Tuesday conditions were just right for sailing when school pupils from St. Ives and Hayle came to the pen to be taken out and experience dinghy sailing.
This activity came about through the efforts of Secretary Martin Potter working with Helen Bowkett, the outdoor education coach for both schools, together with a grant to the club from Penwith Development Trust and the Neighbourhood Renewal Learning Chest which enabled the club to purchase buoyancy jackets and other safety aids.
Five boats capable of carrying two or three crew took part along with a number of helpers for the tractor and safety boat. Everyone enjoyed sharing their sport with the youngsters, especially when a pod of dolphins arrived and put on a display for them. The session lasted for an hour and a half with some pupils changing over to try a spell in the safety boat. The club intends to repeat these sessions again in June and July to encourage the sport for the youngsters.
June
September
On Saturday there was a SE wind force 2/3, calm sea and testing conditions with gusting winds, which promised a fast race. Six boats positioned themselves at the start and the Osprey of Marcus and Peter and the Stratos of Martin Potter and Sam Whittall led the fleet away from the start. The Osprey soon built up a lead which he must do because of the handicap system, with the Stratos giving chase. Also going well was Richard Stevens in his comet and the Lasers were all sailing to form led by Martin Rawling. John Palser suffered a broken mast and was towed in and with the gusting wind causing lots of capsizes keeping Dave Peters and Roy Appleton busy in the safety boat. Brian Gray capsized right on a mark, his rigging getting caught in the mooring, he was taken aboard the safety boat leaving his Laser attached to the mark as they had to attend to other boats in trouble. Brian continued racing after his Laser was freed. Daniel Lees and Sam Eddy were out in their Radial Lasers but were asked to return to harbour allowing the safety boat to attend to the boats racing. Also sailing were Rupert and Patrick Manley.
Result: 1, M. Rawling, 2, Marcus & Peter, 3, M. Potter & S. Whittall, 4, M. Cook, 5, R. Stevens, 6, B. Gray. Tony Hull and Edward Jenkyn were taking care of events from the tower.
November
The start of the frostbite series saw a cold but sunny afternoon with wind force 2/3 from the west and the tide up. Six boats and crews prepared, Dave Peters and Roy Appleton, in the safety boat, laid the course and Viv Lewis in the tower prepared a five-lap race. There were no problems at the start, the Osprey led the three Lasers and the Enterprise. A big swell was running but there were no capsizes. As the race progressed the boats spread out, Martin Rawling led the Lasers chasing the Osprey. The Enterprise at this stage was ahead of Mike Cook and Martin Potter, crewed by Terrie Cook. Mike Cook was just holding off the Enterprise and the Statos, who would have liked more wind, it did pick up for the last lap. A good race was enjoyed by all. Result: 1, M. Rawling, 2, J. Palser, 3, M. Cook, 4, Marcus & Peter, 5, Rupert & Patrick Manley, 6, Martin Potter & Terrie Cook.
On Saturday 19th November our friend and fellow sailor Martyn Thompson passed away. His character was perfectly portrayed in this poem by John Palser.
Martin Thompson
Martin Thompson a sailor boy
Big yellow boat was his favourite toy
Raising the main and flying the kite
Bow through the waves - was a pretty sight
Loved the sea and after race natter
Win or lose it didn’t matter
Just to take part and test his skills
That was the way to thrills and spills
Jokes in the pen and laughter in the hut
No one escaped the wicked butt
All in good humour, delivered with smile
Guaranteed to make us laugh for a while
Down to the water and wait for the green
Make a good start - always keen
Never gave up and willing to learn
Enthusiastic and cheerful with energy to burn
Round the marks, riding the waves
A welcome break from the working days
Tacking and gybing, dodging the others
Hollering and shouting you silly ******
Boats put away and on with the covers
All’s forgotten my mates and brothers
Down to the lodge for tea and some talk
Plenty to say in his long, long report
Now, look across the wide St. Ives Bay
Look across the water to Hayle far away
Look across the water where the dolphins run
You will see our sailing friend - Martin Thompson
December
A moving farewell to one of the club’s keenest sailors
Prior to the start of racing, Martyn Thompson’s close family boarded the safety boat and motored out to the start area. At a signal from the tower the nine boats out on the water gathered around the safety boat and Martyn’s ashes were scattered in the bay. A moving farewell to one of the club’s keenest sailors.
The race started and it looked like two Lasers were going to cross the starting line first when the Osprey sailed past them to make a perfect start. In fact, all boats seemed to be on top form. Mike Cook was away ahead of the Lasers building up a good lead. Martin Potter had Tom Edmondson crewing for him, and they were in hot pursuit of the Osprey. Martin Rawling was just ahead of son Aaron, followed by John Palser and Brian Gray, John finally got past Aaron on the last lap, but Mike Cook held on to his third place right to the finish. Also sailing was Martin Goodman out in his Marauder with Paul Smith crewing. The perfect conditions ensured a good afternoon’s sailing.
Result; 1, Marcus & Peter, 2, Martin & Tom, 3, Mike Cook, 4, Martin Rawling, 5, Aaron Rawling, 6, John Palser, 7, Brian Gray, 8, Bill Riley, 9, Martin Goodman & Paul Smith. Tony Hull and Edward Jenkyn were in the tower. Terrie Cook & Dave Peters crewed the safety boat.
2006
May
Racing.
There was a little breeze out in the bay on Wednesday, but the sections close to the shore were very sheltered and it was difficult to find any speed. Martin Rawling made the best start, and he was never caught.
There was a battle behind him between Brian Gray and John Palser who were being steadily hunted down by the Lark of Simon Burgess and Phil Cole. The other Lark of Simon Ashmore and Derek Hall finished fifth behind John Palser, and Keith Sampson brought the Magno home in sixth ahead of the Stratos of Martin Potter/Martyn Jackson and Bill’s Solo.
Result: 1, Martin Rawling, Laser, 2, Brian Gray, Laser, 3, Simon Burgess/Phil Cole, Lark.
It was Martin Rawling again who showed the way home in the first race Saturday, from John Palser and Aaron Rawling in a Radial. Brian Gray was in it until the last lap when a broken tiller forced him out, giving up fourth place to Bill Riley, with Mark Paxton and Simon Ashmore bringing up the rear. The second race was over a shortened course which saw much swell. The results would have been idential to the first but for a number of capsizes by Martin which relegated him down to third.
1st race: 1, Martin Rawling, Laser; 2, John Palser, Laser; 3, Aaron Rawling, Radial; 4, Bill Riley, Solo; 5, Marc Paxton/Simon Ashmore, Lark.
2nd race: 1, John Palser, Laser; 2, Aaron Rawling, Radial; 3, Martin Rawling, Laser; 4, Bill Riley, Solo; 5, Mark Paxton/Simon Ashmore.
June
St. Ives Regatta
August
Racing.
Eight boats lined up at the start of Wednesday’s race on a beautiful, bright and breezy evening. The winds weren’t too strong, but they were gusting and shifting around which made it very tricky to sail well. Brian Gray continued his run of from by leading on the first lap, even holding off the much faster Osprey of Marcus and Peter until their eagerness to get past led to a collision which knocked Brian out of his boat. In the ensuing confusion, Mike Cook and John Palser had to take avoiding action and let the Stratos of Martin Potter and new member Maria Purvis through just behind Martin Rawling. After that the positions stayed the same, with Martin Rawling taking the win on handicap from Martin and Maria. Simon Ashmore and Emile Gatta retired with gear failure after the first lap in the Lark.
Result: 1, Martin Rawling, 2, Martin Potter and Maria Purvis, 3, Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall, 4, Mike Cook, 5, John Palser, 6, Brian Gray, 7, Rupert Manley.
October
November
Frostbite race.
A beautiful sunny if cool day greeted the St. Ives sailors on Saturday and the wind came just in time to make it perfect racing. Five boats made the start, including the striking new Vago of club champion Martin Rawling. It’s a step up for Martin as he will now have three sails to worry about rather than just the one on his Laser.
The start was a bit of a debacle as one boat was over the line, but all the other boats thought they had to return as well causing mayhem on the line. It was the Osprey of Peter Whittall with guest helm Jonathan Thomas who set the early pace being chased surprisingly by Martin’s Vago and John Palser’s Laser. Dave Peters and Andy Roz in the Magno were next but couldn’t fly their spinnaker on the first reach as it wasn’t rigged properly. This let the Stratos of Martin Potter through, being helmed today by new sailor Sarah Bonnar in only her second time on the helm, and with the spinnaker up. The Vago survived a capsize but recovered and finished first on handicap, with John second. The Magno recorded their best ever result in third just edging out the Osprey.
Result: 1, Martin Rawling; 2, John Palser; 3, David Peters & Andy Roz; 4, Jonathan Thomas & Peter Whittall; 5, Sarah Bonnar & Martin Potter.
2007
May
Racing.
Racing finally got underway at the club on Wednesday, after a month-long delay whilst the new club’s facilities, the changing and storage cabin, were being built in the boat pen. A stiff force 3 breeze from the Northwest greeted seven boats at the start line. Mike Cook (Laser) was first away with the very fast Osprey, Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall quickly finding the lead. With the Lasers and the two Stratos doing battle on the run and beat, Simon Burgess (Lark) was able to sail well and occupy second place for most of the race. Mike Cook also had a good race. Unfortunately, Mike missed out the final mark of the course and sportingly accepted the penalty for that. Mike’s demise allowed Marc Paxton and Derek Hall (Stratos – Ex Lark) into third place, on their very first outing in their new acquisition.
Result: 1, Marcus & Peter; 2, Simon & Phil; 3, Marc Paxton & Derek Hall; 4, John Palser (Laser); 5, Martin Potter & Sarah Bonnar (Stratos); 6,Alex & Kim Accleton (GP14).
On Saturday the wind had picked up and veered to an easterly force 4, whilst a busy boat pen yielded ten boats to the fray. In the first race it was Mike Cook who again made the best start, with the ‘express’ Osprey in hot pursuit. Mike had his usual tussle with John Palser (Laser) throughout the race, with a very fast and exciting beam reach allowing these two to move away from the rest of the fleet. Not, however, fast enough to clip the wings of the flying Osprey! A quick capsize recovery at the gybe mark inspired Mike to surf past a sleeping
J.P. to the finish line.
Results: 1, Marcus & Peter; 2, Mike Cook; 3, John Palser; 4, Simon Ashmore / Marc Paxton / Derek Hall (Stratos); 5, Alex Accleton & George (GP14); 6, Dan Rouncefield (Topaz).
Race Officer Bill Riley reversed the course for the second race. It was the Lasers who got away first but with the fast reach now gone and the wind speed climbing (force 5 gusting 6+) they found it increasingly difficult to keep the large two-man boats at bay as the race progressed. The race itself was full of incidents, far too numerous to mention individually. Capsizes, collisions, retirements etc, all contributed to the adrenalin rush of an exceptionally exciting afternoon. Martin Potter (Stratos) with his young crew, Sarah Bonnar, took the honours on handicap with the uncharacteristically sluggish Osprey (on the first lap at least) only managing second!
Result: 1, Martin & Sarah; 2, Marcus & Peter; 3, Mike Cook; 4, John Palser; 5, Marc Paxton / Simon / Derek.
June
Racing.
The blustery Wednesday afternoon wind had given way to light force 1to2 breezes, from the North, by race time. A good turnout of 13 boats made their way to the start area near Smeaton’s Pier. However, during the start process, paraplegic sailor Geoff Holt was spotted rounding the island headland. The start of the club race was postponed for 10 minutes so that club members could escort Geoff towards the harbour and impart their good wishes for his endeavours.
The club race started with a run to the first mark. As might be expected, some of the larger, faster boats, with spinnakers, rounded the mark first, (Osprey and Buzz). Three Lasers led by Brian Gray followed these. As the race progressed the wind subdued further, and the race had to be shortened from 4 to 2 laps. Brian sailed well, and although the boats behind were able to catch him at times, they could not quite get past and he was able to hang on to his third place on the water, 2nd on handicap just in front of Jon Keast in the Buzz. Martin Rawling (Vago) coped with the dying wind better than most, and on the last lap, sailed from the back of the fleet into 4th place on handicap (7th on the water).
Result: 1, Marcus & Peter (Osprey), 2, Brian Gray (Laser), 3, Jon Keast and crew (Buzz), 4, Martin Rawling (Vago), 5, Mike Cook (Laser), 6, John Palser (Laser), 7, Simon Burgess and crew (Lark), 8, Alex Accleton & Dino (GP14), 9, Marc Paxton & Simon Ashmore (Stratos), 10, Dave Peters & Andy de Rozarieux (Magno).
July
July
With Mount’s Bay Sailing Club’s Regatta on Sunday, Saturday was designated a club ‘fun day’, no racing, just pleasure sailing for club members, their friends and families, plus taster sessions for members of the public. On this occasion the club hosted a Healthy Living Event for the West Cornwall Healthy Living Centre and Health Authority. Club member Dr. Rupert Manley organised the activity and several guests came along for a sailing taster session. With flat seas, sunshine and a brisk force three breezes the conditions were ideal for such an occasion and all who took part, guests and club members, thoroughly enjoyed the day’s activities on the water. Dave Peters and Terrie Cook manned the club safety boat.
November
December
Frostbite.
After missing racing for the past two weeks because of high winds and large waves in the bay, the ‘Frostbite’ series got under way once more in marginally better conditions on Saturday. Although it was cold and windy with biggish seas, three helms and crews turned up determined to sail in the testing conditions. OOD Richard Sadler, assisted by Edward Jenkyn, decided on a short, triangular course just outside the harbour but beyond the big surf sweeping into the harbour mouth. Jon Keast with Daniel Rouncefield (Buzz) made the best start onto the fast beam reach down towards Porthminster Beach, which was followed by a short windward leg east into the bay. However, Martyn Tarplee (Laser) was not far behind and moved into the lead on a broad reach back to the start line (Outer Distance Mark)/ gybe mark. Martin Rawling with crew Alex Accleton, having decided to put a reef in the mainsail, was making slower progress than of late, but sailed well to negotiate the course without too much incident. On the third lap Jon and Daniel hoisted their spinnaker on the beam reach in a brave attempt to catch Martyn but found themselves having to bear away sharply from their desired course to avoid capsize when the gusts hit. Martyn eked out a good lead before the end of the five-lap race to finish first on the water and on handicap. Dave Peters and John Palser crewed the safety boat.
Result: 1, Martyn Tarplee (Laser), 2, Jon Keast & Daniel Rouncefield, 3, Martin Rawling & Alex Accleton (Vago).
2008
April
Racing.
The club’s new racing season finally got under way on Wednesday evening after the previous Saturday’s disappointing race cancellation because of strong winds and big seas in the bay. Richard Sadler (Race Officer) was on hand for the pier head duties with Sarah Keast and children assisting, set a 5 lap, starboard hand course. With the Westerly wind blowing force 5 plus, Martin Rawling with crew Aaron Rawling (Vago) made the best start on the broad reach to the first mark set east towards Hayle. However, they were quickly overtaken by the Jon Keast and Tony Pace (Buzz), who were sailing well until capsize interrupted their progress as they turned onto the beat towards Porthminster. After the first lap the wind dropped somewhat to a more manageable force 3 to4 and by time the fast moving Osprey (Marcus Millington and Peter Whittall) had taken the lead. The Osprey, Vago and Buzz all had their spinnakers flying at various times in the race and the Vago had a capsize towards the end of the race, but Mike Cook (Laser Radial rig), having selected what turned out to be a good choice of rig for his Laser, made the most of the variable conditions to finish third on the water but first on handicap.
Thanks to Terrie Cook and Dave Peters for the ‘on the water’ management in the safety boat. Martin Potter with Sam Whittall were also on the water in Martin’s latest acquisition, a Laser 4000 – a very fast and exciting boat by all accounts.
Results: 1, Mike Cook (Laser Radial) 2, Jon Keast & Tony Pace (Buzz), 3, Marcus Millington & Peter Whittall (Osprey), 4, Martin & Aaron Rawling (Vago), Martin Potter & Sam Whittall (Laser 4000) DNS.