From this mid winter perspective the sailing season seems a very long way off both in retrospect and in anticipation, but we will soon be at the shortest day and as the days lengthen we can anticipate another sailing season. Meanwhile there is some planning to be done. The committee will be putting the programme for 2001 together in time for the AGM, so now is the time to let us know what you would like to see in it ... or maybe everything is already to your liking and no changes are needed?

We have been very lucky that there has been very little damage in the compound with all the stormy weather, but don't be complacent, lashings can work loose and rigging can fail. Do visit the site occasionally and make sure your boat is still firmly secured and ready for the next blast. (Wellington boots are advised!!)

The presentation of trophies to the winners of the year 2000 sailing series was made at the dinner dance earlier this month. Those who attended had a very good evening and the Rugby Club seemed to be a very satisfactory venue for the event, with plenty of room for larger numbers (if needed) in the future.

As many of you were not there you may like to know the results:

Monos Cats

First Craig Smith Andrew & Graeme Woods

Second Peter Atkey / John Frake(equal) Alan Welman

Third - Paul Craft

Congratulations to the winners and the many others who took part in the racing season.

1. 26 December 2000 (Boxing Day) - Hot punch in the Clubhouse from 12 noon.
2. 4 February 2001 - 2.30 pm - AGM in the Conservative Hall, East Preston

If you wish to nominate anyone to serve on the committee please ask me for a nomination form. Note that all nominations must be received by 27 January 2000.

The same date applies for items you wish to add to the agenda, please send me details of any item you wish to raise.

This might be a good time of year to think of sunnier times and plan holidays. If you have had a good holiday in recent years that included sailing or was based afloat it might be of interest to other members to hear a few details. If you send me a few notes on your experiences I will collate all replies for publishing in the next Mainsheet.

It has been suggested that a computer would allow us to calculate (and publish) race results quicker. To this end I will try and build a basic PC that can be kept in the Clubhouse. I have quite a few basic parts (motherboard, CPU, floppy & hard drive, graphics card) but am looking for a case with power supply and a monitor. If anyone has any parts that could be donated please let me know - we are looking for the absolute basics.

Can I take this opportunity to wish you all a most enjoyable Christmas and splendid sailing in the year 2001.

Commodore 13 December 2000

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Overall length 7 ft 11 in with 4 hp Evenrude Twin Engine Outboard

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DART 15 SAIL NO. 616

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