Nationals Attendances

Originally posted by Dougaldog

Originally posted by Dougaldog

Davidyacht: I am well aware of the failings, on both sides, that took place during the event you refer to, but think it a bit sad that PSC are being pilloried unfairly. As I said, there were failings on both sides but this is hardly the forum for airing just one side of the grievances. I was at Hayling Island recently and would rather be here than there (and that is from some who lives on the IOW).I'm at PSC now and have seen them working hard across the week to make the Merlin Champs a success. I'm then staying on here to cover the IC worlds so will be able to give an better informed and reasoned view
in 10 days time.
But is it really just a case that it is being held at PSC? I don't think so and will do a short article looking back at the week here. Instead, if there is one factor that has hit the success of this week it has to be the weather - it has been grotty since day one.
The Wind Guru/XC weather effect that we often talk about is in plain view here.
However, all this is just part of a bigger picture. Defining what that bigger picture is, wow, that is a task and a half and I've little doubt that the RYA will continue to fund Consultant activity as they look at rebuilding the grassroots of the sport - if that is what they might want to do. And that is an even bigger question...do they even want to do it!
D
Ventnor/IOW

Dougal, I accept that I may be harsh on Plas Heli based on my own experience, which may (hopefully) have been a one off, my experiences, of which I don't think I am alone, highlight that a bit of effort is required from the hosts if they want to grow as a venue, I was warned by the Opi parents before I went, and many Solo sailors gave feedback to the Merlins.

The key point made elsewhere is that a venue needs to stack up both on and off the water, otherwise it simply is not a holiday, which is important for 80% of the fleet ... which is why I cannot understand why Abersoch has been usurped by Plas Heli by several classes.

Continuity is another important aspect, so if you have good venues on a cycle then this also encourages better turnouts.

I can see Plas Heli being a better Worlds venue than a Nationals venue, when that big circular shed could be great for bimbling with your IC in the rain, and when a good view from the bar is less important ... I just hope that they sweep the sand off the slipway ... they are heavy old boats (canoes).