HRSC rises to the challenge

Foxers back out on the Hamble River © Catrina Clarke

Getting people sailing in small boats has been Hamble River Sailing Club's mission since it was founded 101 years ago and that zeal to succeed has never been more needed than during the current COVID-19 crisis.

Yacht and XOD racing on Wednesday evenings recommenced on June 3rd restricted to single household crews only and with amended SI's so that handicap class yachts race without spinnakers and all boats 'self start' at a fixed time and then take their own finish times.

Meanwhile dinghy sailing is going strong with junior sailing for up to six of the more experienced Level 3 cadets racing, while the more leisurely MOB and WOW groups (Men on Beer & Women on Water!) are going sailing in club dinghies on evenings when the tide time suits. 'SUP' paddle boards are available for hire by members and friends or 'bubble groups' and the super-keen Foxer dinghy fleet is racing as usual on Sunday mornings including last weekend with a special pursuit race sponsored by the King and Queen.

The credit for much of the enthusiasm to get the dinghy sailing happening goes to 21-year-old Alice Ryan, once a junior cadet in the strong HRSC training programme and now a qualified RYA instructor and also a member of the club's sailing committee. Alice commented: "I know how important my sailing is to me and I love seeing young children getting involved and enjoying being out on the water!"

All those taking part in club racing are tasked with maintaining strict social distancing with wash down routines for boats and equipment as appropriate to minimise risk to club members and helpers, and the social side in not being neglected either, with take away drinks available outside on the patio after racing with a strict safety regime. HRSC welcomes new members and looks forward to resuming full activities including sail training when RYA guidance and social distancing can be relaxed further.

More information at www.hrsc.org.uk