Team Pica in Hungary
Thursday 10th to Monday 14th May 2012
The Hungarian event on Lake Balatonfoldvar were days of frustration for Team Pica. The first two days produced summery conditions with little or no wind, the following day produced too much even for hardy skiff sailors and on the last day the storm was still pumping at 26-30 knots.
Team Pica heads the list in 18ft Skiffs
Saturday 5th to Monday 7th May 2012
The second UK Grand Prix was held at Calshot on the Solent this Bank Holiday Weekend. Three days of racing produced perfect skiff sailing (albeit very cold!) with nine races, in a wind range from 12-22 knots, with all teams opting for the smaller rig on the last day.
Justin Waples at Flying Fifteen Inlands
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th April 2012
Twenty-five Flying Fifteens entered the Inland Championships at Burton Sailing Club over the weekend of 14th-15th April, including RCYC member Justin Waples. A chilly breeze of strengths varying between force 2-4 but which swung round the compass, provided a challenge for both the competitors and the organisers.
RMS Titanic Sets Sail - A Night to Remember...
Saturday 14th April 2012
As the 100th Anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic approached, more and more interest was taken in the subject: programmes on both radio and TV, books, interviews with relatives of survivors, plenty to please the Titanic aficionado. All were planned well in advance but none more than RCYC's event, which developed a couple of years ago from a germ of an idea from Tony Bone. Many people were involved, all providing ideas which combined to make a night to remember.
RCYC honours Margaret
Saturday 24th March 2012
Margaret Pollard, together with husband, Ernie, were special guests at the Fitting Out Dinner, when Commodore Robert Coyle was pleased to offer and Margaret to accept Honorary Membership in recognition of her years of work and commitment to the Club. Although Margaret retired officially from her post as Club Controller in 2001, she has continued to to work in the office at weekends ever since and still does so on Sundays where Members are delighted to see her familiar face.
New Fleet Section
March 2012
Be sure to look at the newly rebuilt pages in the fleets section of the website, redesigned in time for the start of the sailing season. You no longer have to be logged in to explore them - just click on 'Fleets' at the top of your screen (or the link below). We'll continue to enhance them over the coming months - but as ever - we are reliant on the individual fleets for interesting content. So keep it coming!
Virtual Endeavour Trophy with SailX
Wednesday 15th February 2012
The Endeavour Trophy has long been associated with the RYA Dinghy Show, but this year the connection has a contemporary approach. Racing virtual sailing boats in strict accordance with the racing rules (except no need for a wet suit) in the comfort of your own home - the finals will take place at the RYA Volvo Dinghy Show over the weekend 3/4th March, and the winner will be presented with the new Virtual Endeavour Trophy.
Simon Fisher on board
February 2012
This is the time of year to catch up with Simon Fisher, (Si Fi) ex-Otter Commodore, who is still racing round the world with Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing. Having just completed the third leg of the Volvo Ocean Race, he is now in Sanya but the race has been one of mixed fortunes for the team so far.
RCYC Celebrates Burns' Night
Saturday 28th January 2012
The Season's entertainments at RCYC commenced with yet another excellent Burns' Night celebration and a significant number of members joined in this regular event. Stuart Munro, now relaxing as our ex-Commodore, kindly delivered the Selkirk Grace and shortly this was followed by our own "Braveheart", Steve Jones, who once again excelled and attacked the haggis with his unique charm and sharpened dirk.
Nick Craig named as Yachtsman of the Year
Wednesday 11th January 2012
Five times Endeavour Championship winner Nick Craig has won the coveted title of Yachting Journalists’ Association Pantaenius Yachtsman of the Year for 2011, beating off competition from none other than Ben Ainslie CBE and Dee Caffari MBE.
Digging to Start on Crossrail Project
9th January 2012
In March, the first of eight of these giant machines will start burrowing under central London to carve out the tunnels for Crossrail, Europe's biggest civil engineering project. Crossrail will link areas east and west of London on 118km (73 miles) of rail track. The route will descend down to 40m (130ft) under London through 21km of twin tunnels.
Ex Otter Breaks Round the World Record
Saturday 7th January 2012
Ex Corinthian Otter Brian Thompson has just broken the world record for the fastest circumnavigation of the world in any type of yacht. Brian, who is now based in Southampton, was the only British crew member on board the Banque Populaire V, which completed the lap in a staggering 45 days, 13 hours, 42 minutes and 53 seconds.
A New Look for royalcorinthian.co.uk
Friday 6th January 2012
2012 marks a decade since Mark Eagling became involved with our website, and to mark this auspicious anniversary, royalcorinthian.co.uk has had a major makeover. Here Mark gives us a run-down of what's changed and what's stayed the same.
Boat Shows 2012
Spring Season 2012
The Boat Show season will soon be upon us with the London Boat Show opening from 6th -15th January. Several members will go and we are promised their insightful comments later. Roger Taylor, however, our member who specialises in solo Arctic trips, has received a personal invitation to attend the Moscow Boat Show, March 20-25, where he is promised 'a comfortable stay at the exhibition grounds and a chance to meet Russian sailors to share his experiences in ocean sailing...' We look forward to hearing from Our Man in Moscow!'
An Admiral for RCYC
Sunday 11th December 2011
An interesting start to the Annual General Meeting was the elevation of Robert Melville from Honorary Flag Officer to the position of Admiral. The change of Bobby's status was the unanimous decision of the General Committee at an earlier meeting and endorsed by our Cowes Branch, in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the Club over many years.
Annual General Meeting 2011
Sunday 11th December 2011
A good crowd of members - over eighty - attended the Annual General Meeting to mark the end of a successful three year tenure as commodore by Stuart Munro and the election of his successor, Robert Coyle.
Prize Giving and Laying Up Dinner
Saturday 29th October 2011
The only worry at the Laying Up Dinner is whether you will be one of the people given responsibility for cutting up a Steak and Kidney Pudding. With 105 people elbow to elbow at six long tables there were puddings everywhere on Saturday night plus a cheerful buzz in the Dining Room and a dazzling display of silverware.
Nick Craig & Toby Lewis Win 2011 Endeavour
Sunday 9th October 2011
Nick Craig and Toby Lewis representing the OK class have won the Endeavour Trophy after an extremely close fought, two-day championship on the River Crouch. Craig, who has now won the event a total of five times, and Lewis who's won it three times, didn't have it all their own way however, and racing went down to the wire in the last of the eight-race series.
2011 Endeavour Championships - Saturday
Saturday 8th October 2011
RS200 national champions Peters and Roberts sailed an impressive series in today's testing conditions and lead this champions of champions event by just one point from OK national champion Nick Craig and Toby Lewis. Racing over short-sharp, windward/leeward courses, in the gusty 14-16kt north-westerly breeze at the mouth of the River Roach, kept the fleet on its toes throughout the day and the level of competition – with national champions from 25 of the most popular dinghy racing classes represented – was, not surprisingly, extremely high.
Carnival Postscript
Sunday 25th September 2011
If you were at the Burnham Carnival last week, you will surely have admired the entry from the RNLI. Dick Rycroft sent these photos to record the daring raid of the Viking Invaders on RCYC the next day.
Team Pica win 18ft Skiff European Grand Prix
Wednesday 26th September 2011
Team Pica have returned from Switzerland with the latest title in the bag after a season which hails them as UK Grand Prix- winners with an event to spare, Euro GP-Winners with an event to spare, European Champions, UK National Champions and second in the Mark Foy Trophy, otherwise known as the World Championships.
Ffun on an Estuary
FF Open Meeting 10th, 11th September 2011
It is some years since RCYC has seen Flying Fifteens on the River Crouch. Justin Waples has occasionally visited with his boat to enjoy the sailing scenes of his younger years and, together with his brother Chris, a convert to the class, planned an open meeting. The turnout was a little disappointing; a stormy, gale-ridden forecast probably put off several competitors! Those who chanced it, enjoyed a competitive weekend with a promise to enhance the numbers next year.
The St Mathew Cup
Sunday 4th September 2011
This year the St Mathew Cup was hosted by the Burnham Sailing Club and team raced in Squibs. The format was for each club to enter two boats, with four races sailed but each club had to have four helms as each helm could only sail a maximum of two races, although the same crew could sail in all four races if so required. The event was held directly off the Burnham Sailing Club with a windward/ leeward course set across the river as the wind was from the south, giving the spectators on the shore an excellent view of the proceedings.
Ospreys in Burnham Week 2011
27th to 29th August 2011
The Ospreys are a class with fine traditions and it was tradition that saw them invited back to Burnham Week a few years ago– a reminder to yachties as to how it should be done before toes are curled.
RCYC Charity Regatta
Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th August 2011
The RCYC hosted their annual charity regatta on the 6/7 August this year in aid of the Rarer Cancers Foundation. On the Saturday RCODs, Dragons, Squibs, 707s, RBODs and even one Flying Fifteen raced from the club line to a committee boat finish near Holliwell. Then everyone raced back to finish at the club line in time for a well earned liquid de-brief in the club.
A Sailing Management Plan for the Future
Monday 8th August 2011
Ever since the plans were announced for the transport of the Crossrail spoil by barge to the development area on the Wallasea island site, it has been obvious that the interests of the sailing fraternity on the Crouch would be at odds with the constant arrival and departure of the barges.
Flying Fifteen World Championships
Saturday 6th August 2011
There was a truly international turnout at the Flying Fifteen World Championships with competitors from New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, St. Lucia, France, Spain, Hong Kong and Belgium amongst the 114 entries. Also there were the Waples brothers, Chris sailing Sparks and Justin in Bright Sparks.
Adarin takes part in the Round the Island Race
Saturday 26th June 2011
Michael Bradley entered his yacht Adarin in the race again this year hoping to improve on last year's result.
After a long hard trip against strong westerly winds he finally reached the River Medina and Island Yacht Harbour on Thursday 24th June ready to welcome his aged crew plus his own serving RNLI crew.
Well Done, Guys!
Sunday 10th July 2011
Neither Tony nor Tubbs were to be seen behind the bar on Sunday the 10th as both were taking part in the London 10km run together with 25,000 others so they were hardly lonely!
Additions to the Archive - 2
June 2011
This is the story of a coincidence and one from which RCYC has benefited. Last month an account of how Mrs Judy Wilkinson had presented the Club with various pieces of memorabilia, much welcomed for the archives, appeared on the website.
The Packard Ladies' Cup 2011
Sunday 19th June 2011
The second annual race of the Packard Ladies’ Cup took place in splendid conditions at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, Burnham-on-Crouch on the afternoon of Sunday 19th June 2011. This year six Corinthian lady helms came to the line in a fleet of 707s to keep alive the memory of two intrepid yachtswomen, the Packard sisters, Celia and Nina, who originally won this cup in Burnham Week 1899.
Voyages of a Simple Sailor - in Russian...
Saturday 18th June 2011
Roger Taylor's first book, 'Voyages of a Simple Sailor' is now being printed in Russian and the translation of his second book, 'Mingming and the Art of Minimal Ocean Sailing' is almost complete. Roger described working with the translator, a retired Russian merchant master mariner, as 'great fun' and he also hopes to see both books in French translations before too long.
Team Pica - European Champions!
Friday 17th June 2011
Team Pica is back from Sondersborg with their 18ft Skiff after what Stewart Mears described as 'an amazing week'. In the run-up to this event, sailing for the Mark Foy Trophy, Jamie and Stewart Mears, together with Tristan Hutt, had made their presence felt both at the previous UK events and more recently at Lake Balaton where they were the clear winners.
The Caudle Cup
Sunday 12th June 2011
The annual team race in RCODs and RBODs for the Caudle Cup took place in unsummery weather and blustery conditions. The Corinthian team consisted of Corinna, Corindelle, Corsair and a battered Corpo Santo and I wish to thank all the owners and helms who volunteered their boats and time.
Crossrail/RSPB Project June Update
June 2011
Work continues apace on the Crossrail/RSPB project. This update concentrates on information presented recently to the Joint Clubs' Committee. You can get all the background information as well as the answer to many of your questions by visiting the new Crouch Harbour Authority website. You will find a link to the site on the 'read more' section. Once on the CHA website, click on 'Wallasea Wild Coast' in the left hand column.
Additions to the Archive - 1
May 2011
There have been recent welcome additions to the Club Archive kindly donated by Mrs Judy Wilkinson, whose father, Roger Myer, became a member in 1937. Julia has been clearing out her parents' house and packed up everything connected with RCYC and posted it to us.
Team Pica Make a Clean Sweep in 18ft Skiffs
Wednesday 18th May 2011
UK champion Pica team of Jamie Mears, Tristan Hutt and Stewart Mears scored a convincing victory in the Dockyard 18ft Skiff Grand Prix 1 Hungary, which was sailed at Lake Balaton.
Beer Festival
Friday & Saturday 29th & 30th April 2011
RCYC Beer Festival - a new venture for the Club but a successful one. A lot of hard work and planning by Tony and the team paid off. The sponsors and 'staff' had a quick preview on Thursday evening just to ensure the ale was at its best, you understand, then with John Heathfield unfortunately otherwise occupied, Sir Richard Rycroft and Matthew Anthony stood shoulder to shoulder to fill the breach.
A Welcome Visitor
Sunday 24th April 2011
The brand new Tamar class lifeboat to be stationed at Walton visited RCYC for a sandwich lunch on Sunday. The Walton crew collected the £2.7 million boat from the RNLI HQ at Poole three weeks ago after an intensive course at the Lifeboat College then completed a further two weeks of training on-station at Walton.
The Official Opening of the New Pontoon
Friday 22nd April 2011
The date for this event was chosen as part of the Easter Weekend when we might expect a good number of members to be present with no thoughts of echoing the beautiful sunny day of the opening of the previous pontoon. Out of the question, we thought. How wrong we were - it was a spring day of such perfection, sunny and still, that it will always be remembered...
Progress Report on the Crossrail/RSPB Wallasea Project
April 2011
Following articles in the local press, it has been re-assuring to receive a report from Mark Wakelin, the Harbour Master, who is able to give us the facts. Mark's report is dated 25th March and covers three important areas.
Firstly, the completion of documents between Crossrail/RSPB and the Crouch Harbour Authority (CHA).
Maureen Cuts the Ribbon
April 2011
Maureen Kay is not the only member who has been looking forward to the installation of a handrail for the main staircase. The original application was made years ago, lost in the mists of time, passing from one department to another, refused, re-applied and eventually passed and put into action. Maureen was delighted to cut the ribbon and then try out the handrail. Eventually patience is rewarded...
EAA Bridge Lunch
Wednesday 30th March 2011
A very enjoyable and most successful Charity Bridge Lunch was held in the RCYC in aid of the Essex Air Ambulance. Sixty enthusiastic bridge players were welcomed with coffee and biscuits and played very vocal bridge in the bar for two and a half hours. As some come from long distances many had not seen each other since our last event two years ago so had plenty to chat about between hands.
Important News for All Sailors
Friday 18th March 2011
You may have heard of the re-organisation of the Coastguard Service - something which will affect us all. A consultation document called, Protecting Our Seas and Shores in the 21st Century - Consultation on proposals for modernising the Coastguard 2010, has been issued by the Marine and Coastguard Agency and is available here for you to discover the details.
News of the Wallasea project
Saturday 19th February 2011
Several Corinthian members accepted the invitation to tour the Wallasea project along with members from the other Burnham clubs. Gill Yates, one of the stalwarts who endured the wintry conditions on the day, knew nothing of the project so was well placed to ask the most basic of questions. Gavin Rouse, having sailed for many years on the Crouch, could offer the views of 'an old hand'. The views expressed are therefore personal opinions after their visit.
Katrina Hughes bidding for 2012 Selection
15th February 2011
Ex-Otter Katrina Hughes, crewing for Penny Clark in the 470 class, stood on the podium in silver position at the Rolex Miami Olympic Classes Regatta last month. It has been a long haul back to a competitive position since Penny succumbed to a sudden illness at the end of 2009 which obliterated her immune system…
Have You Reserved Your Mooring Yet?
Deadline 31st March 2011
You are respectfully reminded that considerable discounts are available on mooring fees renewed before 31st March. Information about mooring fees and all necessary forms are available on the website. This link takes you directly to the relevant page.
Burns' Night
Saturday 22nd January 2011
Burns' Night never disappoints and on Saturday the evening was eagerly anticipated by the 70 members and guests gathered in the beautifully themed dining room.
Letter from the Commodore
January 2011
Dear Member,
It was nice to see so many of you at the AGM before Christmas and I hope to see more of you all throughout the year at some (or even all!) of the Club functions.
Floodgate Maintenance
Week commencing 10th January
The Environment Agency has warned the Club that there will be maintenance work on the floodgates 4,5 and 6 during the week commencing 10th January. The work will involve work to hinges, paintwork and the replacement of seals if required. This is to ensure that the structure continues to operate effectively as part of the flood defences for many years to come.
Setting the Record Straight
December 2010
When Bob Suggitt, veteran Endeavour sailor and Champion in 1970, took part in the Fiftieth Anniversary celebrations in 2010, he had a close look at the silver model and the base which bears the winners on engraved shields until 1974. He noticed that the shield for R Suggitt was not there; the record jumped from 1969 to 1971...
Annual General Meeting 2010
December 2010
An unprecented number of members attended the Annual General Meeting on December 12th. Some members had travelled considerable distances to support Commodore Stuart Munro as he embarked on his third year, supported by Robert Coyle as his Vice Commodore with Annie Reid and Peter Marchant taking the flags of Rear Commodores for House and Sailing respectively.
Laying up and Prize Giving Dinner
Saturday 30th October 2010
The end of the season was celebrated in the traditional way with steak and kidney pudding, shiny trophies and congratualtions all round. With the cruiser fleet there in strength, more that eighty people gathered for one of the most important events in the Corinthian calendar, eager to sample the pudding.
Fiftieth Anniversary Endeavour Dinner 2010
Saturday 2nd October 2010
The scene was set for a Gala Occasion and that's what it turned out to be. The dining room was brim full with an extra party in the little library, the table decorations reflected the colours of Topper in red and black and there was the buzz that comes from old friends delightedly greeting each other and catching up on the latest news.
Just Acquired
October 2010
An exciting addition to our archives has just arrived, courtesy of eBay. It's a silver medal showing a scene of the clubhouse with a laurel wreath and crown on the reverse. It is dated 1872 but that refers to the creation of the club not the date of the medal, which must have been struck shortly after the opening of the clubhouse in 1931.
The Endeavour Honours Board
October 2010
For some years it has been agreed that RCYC needed a permanent and accessible record of the winners of the Endeavour Championship. The winning plaques on the actual silver trophy only reach 1974 and the half model, which records the full list, always goes home with the winner.
Merlin Rocket team wins 50th Endeavour
Sunday 3rd October 2010
Twenty-four-year-old Hollingworth Lake Sailing Club member - Stuart Bithell - and his 21-year-old crew, Christian Birrel, representing the Merlin Rocket class, have won the 50th Endeavour Championships convincingly, with a race to spare.
Visitors
Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th September 2010
During the weekend of 11th & 12th September RCYC took part in the Heritage Open Weekend as we have done in previous years. This is a National Event when members of the general public can get behind the scenes and visit places that are not normally available.
Burnham Week 2010
Wednesday 8th September 2010
The weather the week after Burnham Week has an autumnal feel to it and weather warnings from the BBC abound, but, no matter,as Burnham Week 2010 has been all buttoned up and put to bed. All that remains is for us all to consider whether improvements can be made for BW 2011 and a verdict on 2010.
Farleigh Hospice Regatta
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th August 2010
All involved in this year’s Farleigh Regatta enjoyed an excellent weekend. The weather was not as sunny as last year, but the threatened rain did not materialise. On Saturday morning the signs were not good as there was no wind, but, just in time for the afternoon racing, the wind arrived and built steadily through the weekend without becoming too strong.
Packard Ladies' Cup
Sunday 11th July 2010
The inaugural race of the Packard Ladies’ Cup took place in near-perfect conditions at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club, Burnham-on-Crouch on the afternoon of Sunday 11th July 2010. Eight Corinthian lady helms came to the line in a fleet of 707s to celebrate Celia and Nina Packard, two determined Victorian ladies, who originally won this cup in Burnham Week 1899.
Packard Ladies' Cup - Racing Report
Sunday 11th July 2010
For the inaugural Royal Corinthian Yacht Club's Packard Ladies' Trophy eight 707s lined up at the start on Sunday afternoon for a great race, held in near perfect conditions. The helms came from various fleets within the Club and there were no rules about the sex of the members of the crew, either would do!
Justin Waples wins Grafham in Bright Sparks
Saturday 14th & Sunday 15th April 2010
Justin Waples enjoyed a satisfactory weekend over the 17th & 18th April. He launched his new Flying Fifteen Bright Sparks on the Saturday and, together with his crew Ian Stowe, went on to win the Flying Fifteen Open Meeting at Grafham Water on the Sunday - that's champagne two days running!
IRC Thames Estuary Shield
Sunday 2nd May 2010
A goodly fleet of eleven boats crossed the start line for the Thames Estuary Shield, the return leg to Burnham after the Jane's Cup of the previous day. Although the weather was benign enough at the start, the wild, wet and windy conditions of this second day of May gradually whittled the fleet away to just three finishers, two in Class One and one in Class Two.
The Packard Ladies' Cup
Saturday 27th March 2010
The Fitting Out Dinner was an eminently suitable occasion to introduce the Packard Ladies' Cup. The presentation of a new trophy is always special, particularly a trophy with such an interesting provenance. It is purely because of the cup's history that it has taken on a new life as a true Corinthian Trophy.
Happy Birthday Sail Mail!
Tuesday 23th March 2010
If you subscribe to RCYC Sail Mail, you will have received Edition 51 in your inbox last week, marking a complete year since Edition Number 1. (The Christmas 2009 edition covered two weeks.) We hope that you welcome its arrival and do not consider it in the junk mail category.
Mothering Sunday
Sunday 14th March 2010
This was the weekend given over to the youngest members of RCYC. The Otters filled the clubhouse at lunchtime on Saturday as the sailing groups all moved on and met their new trainers whilst the Sunday was set aside for Mothers and Families. The dining room was filled to overflowing with the table posies bringing a welcome hint of spring to the occasion.
Useless Unless Worn
Friday 26th February 2010
'Useless Unless Worn' is the simple legend on the posters pinned up in strategic positions around the clubhouse after the Safety Demonstration on Friday 26th February. They will act as a simple reminder to the members who were not present when David Bowton, a sector Officer from the Coastguard, and Chris Waterman, from Ocean Safety, gave a very good demonstration of modern safety equipment, including features of the latest lifejackets. The demonstration was wide ranging, including EPIRBs, AIS and liferafts as well as lifejackets.
Walking on Wallasea
Saturday 20th February 2010
Yesterday, under the wing [!] of Edwin, twenty-one of us visited the RSPB site at Wallasea Island to take a closer at the plans for the area, look at the progress so far, and also to peer through our binoculars and spot the birds who are already visiting or resident on the site.
The Wallasea Project
Tuesday 26th January 2010
The Wallasea Project, a development of Wallasea Island by the combined efforts of the RSPB and the Crossrail Project, continues. The Liaison Committee attended a meeting in South Woodham Ferrers on 26th January, designed to keep the various interested parties up to date with the latest developments. Edwin Buckley's report of the meeting follows.
Jester Medal for Roger!
Monday 25th January 2010
Roger Taylor, single-handed sailor extraordinaire, has been recognised by the Ocean Cruising Club for "an outstanding contribution to the art of single-handed sailing" for his recent voyage, Summer 2009, from Scotland to the Arctic on Mingming.
Burns' Night
Saturday 23rd January 2010
Burns' Night once again lived up to its reputation as one of the most enjoyable Club evenings in the Programme. The Lounge Bar resounded to strains of a Piper playing in the Entrance Hall and to the excited chatter of diners as they greeted one another. Proceeding to the Dining Room the Selkirk Grace was given and fifty members and guests sat down to an excellent dinner of traditional fare prepared by Chef Dean.
Battle of the Classes
Sunday 17th January 2010
The Battle of the Classes was held at the London Boat Show on the 17th January in the dock outside the ExCel. The event is a pursuit race involving as many dinghy classes as possible. This year the variety of boats ranged from a Mirror dinghy to a Thames A Rater whose rig is so tall that it only just made it under the bridge that spans the dock. There were 51 entries in all from 41 different classes.
The Extraordinary General Meeting
Saturday 7th November 2009
Sixty-four Members attended the EGM and gave the plans for the proposed replacement pontoon the 'go-ahead'. Members will need to log-in to read the account of the meeting.
Prize Giving & Laying-up Supper
Saturday 24th October 2009
Prize Giving and the Dining Room looked at its best, curtains drawn against the darkening evening, an extra polish on the silver as befits the occasion and comfort food, traditional Steak & Kidney Pud. More than eighty members were ready to greet and congratulate the Season's Champions but only after justice was done to the puddings! It had been a busy day in the Club, the RCODs considering the maintenance of their classic, wooden boats and Members examining the exhibition of the plans and images of the proposed, new pontoon. The Vice Commodore reported briefly on the pontoon discussions and then left it to Rear Commodore Sailing, Robert Coyle, to preside over the prizes.
2009 Endeavour Championship - Conclusion
Sunday 11th October 2009
Forty-nine year-old Geoff Carveth, who last sailed the event seven years ago, has won the coveted Endeavour Trophy for the fifth time. He and his crew Emma Clarke representing the RS200 class stole the show today and finished the eight-race series, nine points clear ahead of Lark sailors Alan Krailing and Ed McArdle.
2009 Endeavour Championship - Opening Day
Saturday 10th October 2009
Alan Krailing and Edd McArdle representing the Lark class lead the Endeavour Trophy champions of champions series after five races without even winning a race. Krailing and McArdle proved that notching up a consistent scoreline including three second places really does pay dividends. They finished the day just one point ahead of RS200 representative Geoff Carveth and Emma Clarke who included a 1st, 2nd, and 4th in their string of results.
Plans for the Proposed Pontoon
Saturday 10th October 2009
The plans of the proposed pontoon are now on the website as promised together with some artistic impressions that will give a good idea of how it would look. These plans and images can only be viewed by members who are logged into the site. If you have yet to login, help is at hand...
A Memorial Service for Allan Munro
Monday 14th September 2009
Allan's Memorial Service was held at The Parish Church of St Mary the Virgin in Burnham-on-Crouch. The Rev Vera Wadham officiated.
The St Mathew Cup Stays With Us!
Sunday 6th September 2009
It is really cruel to expect a bright and early turnout to compete for the St Mathew Cup the morning after the BW Prizegiving but experience tells us that it is the only way to find enough people available to fill the teams necessary! New members may not realise the significance of this trophy which was presented to the town by ‘The Officers, Men & WRNS Personnel of HMS ST. Mathew November 1943 – October 1945’ when the Burnham water front was taken over by the Admiralty as part of the war effort. The inscription continues, ‘To be competed for annually by a class selected by the Burnham Sailing Week Committee’ and that has been faithfully carried out ever since, every year 1947, when it was first won by BSC.
Burnham Week 2009 Voted 'One of the Best'
Saturday 29th August - Saturday 5th September 2009
The verdict seems to be that Burnham Week 2009 was one of the best in recent years. The number of competitors was increased, despite both the gloomy financial situation and the start of the new school term, the weather over the first weekend was perfect and although the conditions later in the week caused some races to be abandoned, all fleets sailed on the final Saturday, rounding off the Week to everyone’s satisfaction.
Farleigh Hospice Regatta
Saturday 15th & Sunday 16th August 2009
The Royal Corinthian Yacht Club once again organised a club charity regatta and raised a staggering total of over £2500 for Farleigh Hospice. A record number of members and visitors entered with boats from the RBOD, RCOD, Flying Fifteens, RS Elite, Dragon, Squib and 707 fleets, all enjoying the excellent sailing conditions.
Balcony Event
Saturday 8th August 2009
On a perfect summer's evening thirty Club members and friends sat down to dine on the RCYC balcony under the awning. With suitable music playing in the background, we enjoyed a typical four course Italian meal, cooked to perfection by Dean the chef.
RCYC Members at the 18ft Skiff Worlds
28th June to 6th July 2009
Four RCYC Members, all ex-Otters, arrived in Carnac to take part in the 18ft Skiff World Championships on the 26th June. Jamie Mears and Matt Gill are continuing their sailing relationship which started in Cadets many moons ago, teaming up with Stuart Mears to sail Pica, while Jonathan Noonan, as middleman, teamed up with established match racers Mason Woodworth and Simon Hamilton, on board Investec. Other Brits included Pindar, skippered by Andy Richards, (European champions), Ronstan with Iain Turnbull at the helm, TMF Group with Jarrod Simpson
and Gill/Wild Graphics with Ed Brown.
Henley came to Burnham...
Saturday 20th June 2009
Henley came to Burnham and brought on a burgeoning of blazers at the annual Summer Party. Some were authentic and some were contrived, some were hired and some were obviously relics of a sporty golden youth but all added to the charm of the evening and that was just the gentlemen!
A Taste of the Vendée Globe
Friday 1st May 2009
It was thirty-four years since Brian Thompson was last in Burnham so his visit to tell us of his Vendée Globe adventures inevitably had a nostalgic tinge of 'memory lane' for him. An ex-Otter from 1970 -1976, he learnt his sailing skills on the Crouch and Roach. Those early years also gave him a love for sailing on his own; he would challenge himself to reach Battlesbridge in his Heron dinghy, getting back before dark so that he wasn't missed! Those were days of simple, uncomplicated pleasures... can you imagine it happening now?
Spirit of Montpelier flies the flag!
Thursday 23rd April 2009
David Yelloly, a country member based in the West Midlands, is not a frequent visitor to the Burnham Club but certainly does his bit to take the Club's Ensign to far-flung places. Spirit of Montpelier, his Oyster 72, competed in the recent Spring Regatta in the British Virgin Islands where he enjoyed success in the cruiser performance division.
RSPB Wetlands Project meeting
Friday 17th April 2009
About a hundred people, RCYC members, members from other clubs and Burnham residents, gathered in the Clubhouse to hear the latest news about this controversial project. RSPB Operations Manager (Projects), Jeff Kew, Wallasea Island Project Manager, Chris Tyas, and Dr Colin Scott of ASP Marine Research were there to present the latest developments and answer questions.
Ladies' Day
Tuesday 7th April 2009
Tuesday 7th April was a day for the ladies. We met and gossiped over coffee then sat back to enjoy the demonstration of 'How to arrange Spring Flowers'. Jane Cowell and Janet Thorogood of the Dengie Hundred Flower Arrangement Society opened their demonstration by confessing that they were only amateurs at this business...
RNLI Safety Advice
March 2009
Easter is the traditional start of the boating season. No matter where Easter falls the covers rarely come off earlier. The RNLI hopes all boat users have fair winds and calm seas during 2009. Whilst we can only hope for that, none of us have any control over the weather.
Sailing Rules 2009
Saturday 7th March 2009
Did you brush up your Rules recently? Many Members did and kept John Duerr, the Rules Guru, busy all day. Several helms and crews looked thoughtful over lunch as they consulted their information sheets and one or two even returned to repeat the last session to make sure they had got it right.
The Otters win a Volvo Eco Grant
Friday 20th February 2009
An RYA's recent countrywide promotion, supported by Volvo, to make the sailing youngsters aware of environmental issues, has resulted in a grant for £740 for the Corinthian Otters.
Telefonica Blue wins the fourth leg
29th January 2009
RCYC member Simon Fisher (Si Fi) is on board Telefonica Blue, part of the two-boat Spanish Team for the 2008-2009 Volvo Round the World Race. The race started in Alicante in Spain on 11th October 2008 with stop-overs in Cape Town, Cochin (India), Singapore, Qingdao, Rio, Boston, Galway, Maastrand and Stockholm before finishing in St. Petersberg at the end of June 2009.
RCYC Burns Night
Monday 26th January 2009
Saturday 24th January was the evening when another fine Burns night was enjoyed by 95 members and guests with Master of Ceremonies Steve Jones ensuring that we maintained our format of tradition and humour.
The Battle of the Classes
The London Boat Show 18th January 2009
The Royal Victoria Dock adjacent to the London Boat Show's venue in ExCeL was the location of the "Yachts and Yachting" dinghy pursuit race, the Battle of the Classes, held on Sunday 18th January. What has this got to do with the RCYC you might be thinking? Well everything if fact, as Edwin Buckley and his team of mainly club helpers managed the racing under the flag of the RCYC.
Ford Britain Trust supports the Corinthian Otters
11th December 2008
Ford Britain Trust has again added its support to the work the Corinthian Otters undertake in the development of young sailors in our community. The Ford Britain Trust has contributed £1300 towards the purchase of a replacement engine for one of the Otter Spotter rescue boats.
Liz Chowienczyk is honoured by the RYA
8th December 2008
Corinthian members will know of Liz Chowienczyk as one of the dedicated band of Otter trainers but may not realise that her weekend training activities are similar to a busman's holiday, for she is also a regular volunteer at the AHOY Centre at Deptford where she encourages disabled sailors to sail on the Thames tidal waters.
The Endeavour Championships 2008
11th & 12th October 2008
Thirty fleets were invited, thirty boats turned up and thirty boats were on the start line for the Endeavour Championship, the most prestigious race in the dinghy sailing world, to find the 'Champion of Champions'. Held at the RCYC, Burnham-on-Crouch, senior Race Officer Kim Allen obviously had both the regatta and the weather under his control from the start, as the fleet set out in sunshine and a steady breeze.
The Burnham Carnival
Saturday 27th September 2008
With the Burnham Carnival celebrating its centenary year, RCYC took a full part by entering a float. The theme was, obviously, going to be nautical and a crafty team of artists took over the terrace area behind the clubhouse a couple of weeks beforehand. The Otters got busy with the paint brushes and a production line of sea creatures started to appear with at least some of the paint on the creatures!
Heritage Open days
Saturday 13th & Sunday 14th September
The Clubhouse opened its doors to visitors for a guided tour as part of the Heritage Open Day scheme.This was the first occasion that RCYC has taken part in the scheme and everyone involved was delighted with the results.
St Mathew Cup
Sunday 31st August 2008
It was the turn of the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club to run this event on the Sunday immediately after Burnham Week.
The 707 fleet kindly offered their boats and the flotilla set off down the river looking for some wind. Race Officer Kim Allen set up four Windward/Leeward races, each lasting at least twenty minutes. Team RCYC was the convincing winner and claimed the cup back from RBYC, last year's winner.
In the 62 years since the race was inaugurated in 1947, RCYC leads with 24 wins to BSC's 22.
Katrina Hughes is the 470 golden girl
2nd August 2008
2012 Olympic hopefuls Hannah Mills (20) and (former Otter) Katrina Hughes (18) took the world by storm steaming in to win the Ladies' Junior 470 World Championships in Gydnia, Poland today (29th July). Mills and Hughes are now off to Zadar in Croatia to try and retain their Junior European Ladies 470 crown. The event runs from the 7th - 15th August.
GMTV Weather reporting....
Thursday 24th July 2008
Members who check the early weather forecasts on GMTV were surprised to discover the Outside Broadcast unit relaying the weather news from the end of the RCYC pontoon. The GMTV weather girl, Andrea McLean, perched on Papa Romeo, forecast that the 24th July was likely to be the hottest day of the summer so far.
The RNLI visit RCYC
Saturday 17th May 2008
The local lifeboat Atlantic 75 'Brandy Hole' and crew visited RCYC and stayed alongside the pontoon for a courtesy visit, offering Club members and visitors a 'Sea Safety Day' experience.
Mirror Eastern Area Championships
19th & 20th April 2008
Thirty-five boats entered the Mirror Eastern Area Championships at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club. The outcome of the event was not certain until the last race which always makes for exciting competition. The winner was David Conlon, crewed by Mitchell Bond, both from Brighlingsea YC; the conditions were just right for David and he was quick to spot the possibility of a port hand start in the final race which made all the difference...
The Endeavour Trophy is the Star Attraction
1st & 2nd March 2008
The RCYC's stand at the RYA Dinghy Show over the weekend of the 1st & 2nd of March was a golden opportunity to publicise the Club and the Endeavour Championship, backed by a spectacular display to close the event. The Endeavour Trophy was the centre piece of both the Corinthian Stand and the closing event of the show.
Ken Bushell
12th February 2008
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Ken Bushell, on the 16th January. He was the Commodore of this Club from 1986 to 1988 and will be truly missed by his many friends and sailing companions. Click on 'Read more' for an obituary.
RCYC make their mark on the Carmella Cup
12th & 13th January 2008
With little team racing experience, the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club began the Carmella Cup by beating the Team Racing World Champion and his team from West Kirby. With modest gusto, the eight-strong team went on to win the silver league after an intense weekend of racing.
RCYC Christmas Fiesta
Saturday 15th December 2007
"Come to the Fiesta!" blared the posters, sprouting odd-looking cactuses, (or cacti?) so the members turned up for their Mexican Cocktails, Nachos and Gaspacho. The dress code was sombreros, ponchos, boleros and moustachios, of course.
Rob Campbell, Chairman of the IDA
26th October 2007
The last time Sara Campbell made the headlines, her father got in on the act with his own success. He's done it again! Congratulations, Rob, on becoming the Chairman of the International Dragon Association! Thanks for the photo, Geof!
Sara does it again!
24th October 2007
Way back in June we reported on Sara Campbell's success in the sport of Freediving. She described her dives as 'comfortable' and reckoned to be able to improve on her performance. Well, she's done just that!
Endeavour 2007 : The Daily Sail reports
6th & 7th October 2007
Day One
All talk of a light wind Endeavour Trophy went out the window this morning as competitors arrived in Burnham to find a gradually increasing easterly breeze. Unfortunately two of the 30 confirmed entries did not turn up, leaving 28 competitors out on the water.
The Endeavour Trophy 2007, sponsored by Holt
6th & 7th October 2007
BURNHAM CROWNS A NEW CHAMPION!
Steve Tylecote and Toby Lewis, representing the Firefly fleet, sailed a fantastic series to claim the Holt sponsored Endeavour Trophy 2007. Displacing Nick Craig from his three year winning streak, Steve was clearly delighted with the achievement. He celebrated with a huge cheer as they crossed the final finish line, and elaborated afterwards, "It's very emotional - we're really chuffed!"
RBYC wins the St Mathew Cup
Sunday 2nd September 2007
Congratulations to the Royal Burnham Yacht Club for their commanding win in the St Mathew Cup, sailed on Sunday 2nd September.This was the 61st occasion when the four Burnham Clubs competed for this trophy.
Justin at the ff Worlds
3rd to the 16th June 2007
Justin Waples competed in the recent flying fifteen World Championships in Majorca. Together with his crew, Iain Stowe, they managed a final place of ninth which made them the fourth best British boat. 71 boats from 10 countries travelled to the Championships from as far afield as New Zealand, Australia and South Africa.
Ex-Otter Sara breaks Freediving Records
June 2007
Few of us have ever heard of Freediving but Sara Campbell now holds the three records in the Sport for British women. There are three separate disciplines:Constant Weight No Fins which involves swimming breaststroke vertically down, Constant Weight which allows the use of a monofin so that swimming like a dolphin becomes possible and Free Immersion in which the divers can pull themselves down on a rope until the pressure allows them to sink further. All by taking just one breath of air on the surface!
Keelboat, Dinghy & Cruiser Safety Event
Saturday 10th March 2007
Some 50 members attended the Club Safety Day held on 10th March 2007, organised by Rear Commodore Tim Matthews and his wife Sarah. The afternoon commenced with a presentation by the Commodore to the RNLI of a cheque for £120 on behalf of Rob Mackay who had held a boat boot sale. Many thanks!
Christmas goes Caribbean!
Saturday 16th December 2006
Time for a change so it's out with the tinsel, the turkey and the trimmings.....and three cheers for the rum punch,exotic flowers and a steel band!
Musto Skiff Event
Saturday 9th December 2006
The Musto Performance Skiffs held a one day Exhibition Regatta at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club on Saturday, organised by Paul Manning of Victor Boats, the Burnham based distributors of these single handers.
Laying Up and Prizegiving Dinner
Saturday 28th October 2006
The Laying Up and Prizegiving Dinner on Saturday 28th October was a celebration of the winners over the Sailing Season. And the menu? Why, Steak and Kidney, of course!
Team Phoebe's Big Adventure
13th -15th October 2006
Phoebe and her crew, Edwin and Pat Buckley and Jeane Horner, set sail from Burnham-on-Crouch at 0800 on Tuesday 10th October bound for Portland Harbour in Dorset. We were part of the RCYC/Plym Yacht Club Race Officer team for the 'Sail for Gold' Event to be held there over the 13-15th October.
The Endeavour Trophy Championships 2006
7th & 8th October
Nick Craig, crewed by James Stewart, stamped his mark on the Endeavour Trophy with a convincing win for the third successive year.
RCYC retains the St Mathew Cup
23rd September 2006
The St Mathew Cup was postponed from the Sunday after Burnham Week when conditions were considered too rough to sail in borrowed boats!
Little Britain Challenge Cup
14th - 16th September 2006
Several RCYC members were at the Little Britain Challenge Cup at Cowes, 14th - 16th September, the annual Construction Industry Regatta, now in its 19th year.
RCYC Clubhouse reaches 75 years
25th July 2006
1930 was a year of dilemma and discussion. Since 1911 the Club had occupied the building now known as 'The Old Clubhouse' but increasing numbers meant that the building was hopelessly inadequate and the only space allotted to the ladies was the balcony. Should they expand or re-locate?
The Wallasea Island Wetlands Project
4th July 2006
Coastal flood defences in Essex were breached on July 4th to create the UK's largest man-made marine wetland in a government-funded scheme to protect endangered wading birds such as avocets...
Celebrating 75 years
21st June 2006
"Twenty-four hours before the time appointed for the official opening, there seemed very little prospect of the Clubhouse being ready for the members, all of the floors still being in the possession of the builders..."
RCYC Clubhouse stars in Anglia TV series
Sunday 26th March 2006
Paul Gogarty, a travel journalist, spent the summer of 2003 touring the English coastline, exploring, meeting people and recording his observations in his book "The Coast Road". He visited Burnham and was intrigued by the not-to-be-missed, squat 'shoebox' that is the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club. I was fortunate to be able to show him around the building and that's how it all began.
Fastest boat on the river?
February 2006
A river empty of moorings and a gentle breeze is the ideal setting to try out the 18' skiff, Pica Flooring. Jamie Mears and Matt Gill, fresh from their Sydney success in a B14 together with Stewart Mears, were caught by the ever-watchful lens of local photographer Derek Argent as they reached back and forth across the open spaces of the Crouch.
Ex Otters compete in Sydney B14 Worlds
January 7th to 13th 2006
It's years since Jamie Mears and Matt Gill sailed in the Otters, but they met again at the B14 World Championships held at Woollahra Sailing Club in Sydney. Richard Edwards was also there.
Three Honorary Flag Officers
29th October 2005
The Commodore, Martin Makey, announced the creation of the post of 'Honorary Flag Officer' at the Laying Up Supper at the end of the Sailing Season and presented them with their flags.
The Wallasea Island Wetlands Project
Winter 2005
Paul Noonan writes about the implications of the highly significant forthcoming changes to the south shore of the Crouch...
The 2005 Endeavour Championship
8th & 9th October 2005
The Endeavour Championship, UK dinghy sailings most historic event was held over the weekend of 8-9 October at the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club in Burnham, Essex.
RCYC at the Fleet Review
Tuesday 28th June 2005
Martin Makey, Commodore of both the Burnham and Cowes branches, had the honour to officially represent the Royal Corinthian at the historical Fleet Review in the Solent on 28th June.