Cadet class fundraising fun for all the family at Frensham
by Peter Collyer 7 Jan 2014 10:38 GMT
14 December 2013
Parents racing in Cadets at Frensham Pond in December © Andy Shorrock
The Cadet Class has long prided itself on introducing children to sailing, but at Frensham Pond SC the Cadet squadron has taken this a stage further by putting beginner parents into boats, and on a windy day in December!
Frensham's Squadron Captain Karen Ferguson takes up the story:
"The day started off with no wind and all parents were up for a giggle! As the clock was ticking away nearer the start time the wind started to fill in and a few parents had worried looks on their faces. All the parents apart from 4 were total beginners, some had never been in a boat before, so rescue boats were at the ready. The first race went really well, round a triangle course that was not too long for the beginners, and Steve Brooker crewed by Jim Brooker won by half a boat-length. The second race saw the wind get up with some nasty gusts, so the spectators started to take bets on who was going to capsize first (and yes, it was a beginner with no sailing gear and no change of clothing). This race was won by Peter Bridge, with son Tom crewing, by a few boat lengths followed by Stephen and Charlotte Videlo. However the highlight of the race was the enthusiasm of the parents who had never got off dry land before. We collected just over £190 which will go towards supporting the Cadet Worlds at Weymouth."
The challenge is set now for other squadrons to better Frensham's brilliant contribution to the Worlds fund. We also welcome two of our favourite chandleries to our 'Square Rigger Support Scheme': Frensham's local sailing shop, Guildford Marine, and East-Coast Cadet specialists Seamark-Nunn. Thanks for your support!
More information at www.cadetworlds.co.uk