Hayling Island Sailing Club host HRH The Princess Royal
by Nikki Eaves, HISC 11 May 2021 16:59 BST
10 May 2021
The Princess Royal makes a commemorative visit to Hayling Island Sailing Club © Peter Hickson
On Monday The Princess Royal, RYA President, made a commemorative visit to Hayling Island Sailing Club as part of our Centenary celebrations.
Commenting on the royal visit, Commodore Andy Partington said, "we had a great time on the water and The Princess Royal showed a great interest in the Centenary flag project. Her Royal Highness wanted to know the stories behind the flags and she was impressed with fact that the 100 flags were all created by volunteers. All in all, a great day."
The Princess enjoyed starting various youth and women on water races on board committee boat "Lady G", before arriving back at HISC, where Her Royal Highness briefly chatted with a small group of members before signing a copy of "100 years in the making" and unveiling Adrienne Aitken's vibrant painting "Regatta Day" both of which will be displayed in the clubhouse.
Trustee Rod Carr who helmed "Lady G" for the visit said, "As an experienced sailor, The Princess was impressed by the standard of sailing in marginal racing conditions from our Youth and Women on Water sailors. She even helped me come alongside the pontoon by putting the fenders out."
It was an honour that HRH The Princess Royal has taken the time to visit us during our 100th anniversary.
We look forward to restrictions lifting over the summer so that together we can enjoy the rest of our Centenary celebrations.