The Wanderer’s versatility was demonstrated at Whitstable YC on the afternoon and evening of Saturday 7th June.

The programme started with the club race at 15:00 in a brisk SW 3-4 with a slight chop. Gavin has introduced a personal handicap rating for the Wanderers and other two handed boats, this series is run in conjunction with the club racing but only nominated races count towards the PH results. As this race was the last of the spring PH series and points at the top close, it was a keenly fought battle. Gavin finished first, Chris second and the husband and wife teams of Turleys and Nevills constantly changing positions on the final run with the Turleys just edging forward to cross the line third.

Three of the boats were left on the slipway in readiness for the jolly to Seasalter that was to follow after a brief rest and tea break. Gavin disappeared with a calculator to work out the PH results having handed over Thistle to his crew Mark. The Clarkes arrived in time for the jaunt along the coast.

W463 Chris Partington, now sailing with wife Theresa, W785 Steve and Marilyn Clarke, W1098 Ian and Glenda Nevill and W1282 Mark Skipper, son Jack and Steve Turley set off up the Swale into the setting sun. The F3, wind against tide, caused the crews to complain about the spray from the waves so we decided to furl the jibs allowing them to sit in. We tacked keeping within 300m of the shore to avoid the larger waves forming further out. The brightly painted beach huts (one could be yours for £8500) and waterside properties (need a lottery win to buy these) were admired as we sailed along the coast. Nearing the sandy shallows at Seasalter we were astonished to see fish (later identified as sea bass) leaping out of the water a few feet from the boats – must remember to take a net next time!

By now, the wind had abated to a gentle F2 and the tide turned, reluctantly we headed back to the club and had a pleasant run, in smooth seas. Jack proficiently took over Thistle’s helm, Steve flew the spinnaker while Mark put his feet up.

Team work quickly had the boats up the slipway, they were soon washed and put away, crews showered and changed eagerly awaiting the barbecue and prize giving. Now joined by Caroline, Carol and the Fagg family the group took over the tables on the veranda and enjoyed the meal while the entertainment for the evening, a steel band, set up their drums.

Before they started playing Gavin announced the final positions and awarded prizes to the first three winners:
1st W463 Chris Partington and various crews
2nd Enterprise John and Eve Kelly (hope John likes his Wanderer tee shirt)
3rd W1282 Gavin Barr and various crews

The evening rounded off with “name that tune” as Steel Vibes performed a selection of melodies. A good time was had by all, perhaps it could become an annual event as it offered something for everyone, including non-racing/sailing family members.

Ian & Glenda Nevill
W1098