The Wanderer, Autumn 2018 by The Wanderer

The Wanderer News from the Wanderer Class Owners’ Association

In this Issue:

WandererFest 2018 — 5 RACE REPORT: National Championship — 9 Ian Proctor Centenary — 12 A Weekend in Whitstable — 15 Battery Driven Wanderer — 16 Amazon Pirates — 18 RACE REPORT: Inland Championship — 20 West Country Cruise — 22 Provisional Programme 2019 — 24

Edition 119

2018 WCOA(uk) National Commitee CHAIRMAN JOHN RENOUF 36 Heron Place, Marlow Bucks SL9 3HP 01628 476929 1953jgr@gmail.com

TECHNICAL SECRETARY MIKE BENNETT 26 Warramhill Road, Godalming, GU7 1LU 01483 424175 mjb1416@gmail.com

WEBMASTER MIKE HAMILTON 27 Brook Avenue North, New Milton, BH25 5HE 01425 612611 hamilton.w992@gmail.com

TREASURER & ADVERTISING SECRETARY ROBIN GABBITAS 8 Old Park Lane, Fishbourne, PO18 8AP 07946 730314 robingabbitas@yahoo.co.uk

MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY JENNY RENOUF 36 Heron Place, Marlow SL7 3HP 01628 476929 jrenouf57@gmail.com

MAGAZINE EDITOR SIMON EDSFORTH 66 Oak Hill, Alresford, SO24 9UG 07825 735993 simon.edsforth@gmail.com

EVENTS COORDINATOR PHILIP MEADOWCROFT 9 Watermans Way, Wargrave, RG10 8HR 07771 814630 philip@brandmasters.co.uk

RICHARD LEWIS Flat 1, Quay Court, 201 Harbour Way, Shoreham-by-Sea BW43 5HZ

MINUTES SECRETARY REBECCA EDSFORTH 07957 600587 mrsedsforth@gmail.com

Editorial

Firstly I’d like to take the opportunity to introduce myself. Please bear with me if I make mistakes and don’t hesitate to email me and point them all out. My Sailing career is limited to just the last few years. My wife, Beccy and I were attracted to the class owing to its ease of handling, reasonable costs and more predictable gybes than the Albacore we had previously sailed. We sail 716 Breezer, from Cobnor Estate in Chichester Harbour, a location which I’ve no doubt all our readers will know. Only after purchasing her did we find out about the WCOA. And only after joining and reading edition 116 did we find out that there was a festival devoted to the class where Breezer lives! What a fantastic way to welcome in new members and enjoy the amazing sights of the Conservancy, which was more like Spain than Sussex this summer. As soon as Beccy and I stepped foot into the camp site on the Thursday night did we feel part of the gang of merry sailors. And twenty minutes later, unbeknownst to me, a certain Philip Meadowcroft had drafted a succession plan for the position of editor. In truth I have enjoyed, thus far, putting together the magazine which was so well looked after by Philip and Jill. I know you will join me in thanking them for services to the magazine for the association since 1987. In future editions I may put a section of previously published articles and pictures by way of remembering the history of the WCOA.

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In this edition we have articles from many contributors. You’ll find race reports from Adam Wickenden and Gavin Barr, articles from Marcus Hindley and Derrick Nash, and meeting reviews from Robin Gabbitas. There are photos from so many of the members that I won’t list them all here but I must say a big thanks to Richard Janulewicz of Sharkbait.org.uk who has kindly allowed us to reproduce the photos from the Inland Champs, one you’ve see already on page 1, more on 20. To all those who’ve contributed may I say thank you. My own writing skills are lacking of those amongst these pages so all the readers are grateful for all your content, witty, exciting, insightful as it is. And to the readers may I say a thank you also, in advance of those terrible typos and misaligned text I’m bound to have missed. I am doing this for your enjoyment and entertainment and I aim to continue making this magazine something you look forward to receiving. Please don’t be perturbed by the slightly different look, as time goes on it may evolve further, but for the meantime, please enjoy. Lastly if anyone would like to contribute pictures or articles, please get in touch and I’ll see what I can do. Cheers, Simon

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John’s Jottings

A message from the Chair of the Wanderer Class Owners’ Association UK John Renouf As I write this it is early evening and already dark outside. It’s not my favourite time of year, I must admit, with my Wanderer already packed away for the winter and shortening days limiting the amount of time that can be spent on outdoor activities. Those summer days of 30-degree temperatures and long, light evenings seem a distant memory. We can now only sit back and reflect on our sailing season. Mine was very limited due to technical and domestic issues that had to take priority but it was good to share in what was possibly the best WandererFest held so far, for which the weather made a full programme of sailing possible. It was good to see so many boats attend; it was a pleasure to provide safety support for this event and satisfying that our rescue services were not required beyond providing the confidence that back-up support was readily available. Thanks go to Marlow Sailing Club for loaning their support boat. My intrepid crew and I were also pleased to provide similar support at the Salcombe weekend, this time in my own powerboat, and a great time was had by all. I hope that your on-the-water experiences were similarly enjoyable. This issue marks some significant changes to the Association Committee. We are very pleased to welcome Simon Edsforth as the new magazine editor. This edition was largely prepared by our ‘retiring’ editor, Philip Meadowcroft, with Simon taking over in time to add the ‘finishing touches’. We expect that in future issues Simon will develop the format and add his own creative elements. We wish him well and look forward to the fruits of his efforts. Philip, ably supported by his wife, Jill, took over the magazine editorship in 2009 (for the second time), and had been a member of the magazine production team for many years prior to that so his contribution to the Club’s prime communication instrument is immeasurable, and we thank him sincerely for that. However, we and not yet putting him “out-to-grass” as he

has now taken on the role of Events Coordinator, a function that he has held unofficially for that last couple of years. We are also marking, with appreciation, the ‘retirement’ of our Secretary, Jean Whittaker. Jean became the Association’s Secretary in 2005, having previously served on the Committee as Advertising and PR Secretary. We say a big ‘thank you’ to Jean for all of her efforts in trying to make sense of and document the Committee Meetings – it can be quite a challenge and as Chairman I know this only too well! As Jean’s replacement we are pleased to welcome Beccy Edsforth, Simon’s wife. These two new recruits to the Committee bring some much-needed new ideas and expertise and they also significantly lower the average age of the Committee too! Regular readers will know that I have been appealing for new Committee members for some time, and there is still room for more! For the Association to thrive, the management needs to evolve. Younger members with modern ideas and a grasp of the latest information technology and the benefits we could get from it are vital. If you think you could help then please let me know. If you continue sailing throughout the winter then I wish you a safe and enjoyable time on the water. If, instead, your attentions turn to maintenance and all those little jobs that got put-off because sailing took priority then I wish you every success with their completion. It seems too early to be sending good wishes for Christmas and the New Year, but I do so as this is my only opportunity. I look forward to meeting you at events in 2019, starting with the AGM in March. Best wishes, John R

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WandererFest 2018 A sunny curry with new friends by Robin Gabbitas and Simon Edsforth 2018 brought us back to the wonderful Cobnor Estate for the fourth year in a row. And why not? Nestled in the heart of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty of the Chichester Harbour, the house and its grounds are a permanent home to 150 dinghies small and large and, for one long weekend in July, the Wanderers. For the whole season the weather has been superb and it was sure to bring wanderers from far and wide, and come they did making it the most well attended of the events on the calendar.

First things first the marquee was erected, the tents pitched, boats unhitched and masts raised ready to beat up the various creeks and passages throughout the Harbour. For the uninitiated Chichester is a haven for all water craft and the natural habitat of the Wanderer, many having been built in Emsworth. And so to the sailing. Day 1. Thursday. A breezy F4G6 was whipping up from the ENE and the tide ebbing from noon. Some intrepid explorers set out to Dell Quay, no doubt to partake of the hostelries provided at the sumptuous Crown and Anchor. The Perils of the moored boats through Itchenor reach and Chichester Lake in a headwind proving too much even for the seasoned and mastered Meadowcroft, winner of the Nationals three times! Although apparently opting for a safe haven on a beach to “enj-

oy a picnic”. Never the less, beaten up, reefed and (egos) bruised, those Wanderers set foot on shore at Apuldram for a well-earned refreshment. Tide and wind behind the journey back was not so perilous. Especially as Philip had promised to light the barbecue(s!). Which he did on arrival back at camp some three hours before cooking was attempted. The food seemed to warm through, mainly due to the hot air temperatures than the coals but much burger was eaten and beer imbibed.

And to Day 2 and Friday. Not too early a start. Some new arrivals brought with them continued breezy weather. Ray’s safety brief resembling more an explanation of reefing and the importance of weather forecasts. The target, Prinsted. A tricky passage through the goal posts at Thorney Channel to avoid the WW2 boat traps proved not too difficult for most. Rather the foiling windsurfer enjoying the stiff breeze and flat waters buzzed the fleet just off the Crake. Some of the fleet made it to Nutbourne Creek, alas the tide ebbing making the hot tea and flapjacks at the Prinsted Scout hut unreachable.

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To home! before the tidal flow on the Roman Transit reached 4kts. Most remained sensibly reefed. But, oh no, Not David Bardwell and Andy Peter the first and only on that day to put up a spinnaker. Back on shore the Barbecue was already growing colder by the minute and the boules lay waiting in the grass. Saturyay! The weather brought wall to wall sunshine and a consistent F3G4 from the South. Before heading out to the water, the redoubtable Ian Porter held an open question and answers. Ian started his talk by exorcising demons from Dave Hewitt’s boat (see below), for which there was no extra charge. He then proceeded rubbishing the “Meadowcroft”

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method of hoisting a spinnaker before demonstrating the correct method of flying the trickiest sail. A thoroughly fantastic morning was spent listening to all that Ian had to offer. He answered far ranging questions for boat maintenance, performance and tuning from all in attendance. Any member wanting to know more about the boat and improve their sail craft this is truly unmissable. Next the irrepressible Ralph Roberts from Aeroluff, fitted brought his easy sail to fit to Mike Hamilton to demonstrate the ease of reefing. On the water the long sail to Emsworth and back set off, ably assisted by Tom Worfolk in the safety vessel. Six boats lead by Chris Codling (pictured below on the harbour wall) made it up to Emsworth

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reefed and ready. No sooner had the water begun to ebb that we jumped into our boats and set sail for Cobnor. Just a few hundred yards out of Emsworth the reefs were shaken out and the fleet beat up through the open water of the harbour. The tight group aiming to meet at camber before the water was completely gone having to avoid the Victory class which, having been out racing, had bitten off too much to windward and run aground on the mud just at the south cardinal mark. Easing off a little the flotilla was waved on by, wasting no more time and water.

the Portsmouth Shanty-men. And as the sun went down, and the shanties sung, and the beer ran low Mike Powel appeared with his telescope and we took turns spotting Io, Ganymede and Europa. Sunday came for the final day. The weather starting to cloud over! And there were reduced numbers owing to Monday commitments. A flotilla set off in search of Dell Quay. Reach only by a few in the previous attempt. This time the SC was open and the pub beer garden was full up. It was at an end. The festival was over. But don’t worry next year’s WandererFest will have all the usual favourites – but may be different. The “Bosham Masters” is pencilled in at the same time as WandererFest 2019. Don’t be put off by the title. The Bosham Masters is a three-day racing event organised by Bosham SC, two races a day from a committee boat not a million miles from Cobnor, with a good deal of entertainment based at Bosham. I will resurrect the Gabbitas Goblet if I can find it; it is well worth competing for, despite Alastair's valuation. So: Note your diaries 4 - 7 July 2019. Book your accommodation now. There will, as usual, be no problem camping or motor-homing at Cobnor and watch out for more details in forthcoming editions.

In the slightly less challenging sail of the day the remaining boats zipped down to East Head supported again by Jon and Jenny to enjoy the delights of a picnic on the beach. Some more brave members went over board, shirtless! Whilst others took in the fantastic view of the Harbour. That evening the campsite stirred with the noise of rumbling tummies, appetites had been earned from all the hard work on the sheets and tillers. At 6 o clock trestle tables were precariously placed, chairs were unfolded expectantly, boules were petanqued nervously. With a roar Robin hove into view in his landrover filled with curry for a thousand. And the members relaxed, the food was here. With full bellies and full glasses the Wanderers were entertained by Copyright © 2018 WCOA[uk] All Rights Reserved

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2018 Wanderer National Championships A comedy of errors in three races, followed by an awful lot of wind and rain Report by Adam Wickenden Langstone Harbour – the great lake on the south coast no one knows about. Every time I tell people I’m going there they say ‘Where?’. Hint – it’s the sometimes wet, sometimes muddy bit you can see when you turn left off the A3M on to the M27. The Wanderer fleet know about it of course. We’ve been holding our Nationals there for a few years on and off now joining in with the Langstone Harbour Race Weekend now in its tenth year and smoothly organised by Tudor SC , Locks SC and Langstone SC with Tudor’s Dinghy Captain Richard Barnes and wife Hannah, Club Commodore, pulling the strings. This year the Regatta was held later than usual because the ‘sometimes muddy’ bit does restrict sailing times. The Lightning 368 class were also there with their Sea Championships and the Wayfarers with their Western Area Championships. 8 Wanderers, (sadly Frank Atherton had to withdraw a day or so earlier), including a very welcome contingent from Sea Cadet units in Scarborough, Scunthorpe, Barry, Sheppey and Reigate made the journey coordinated by Tony

Edgar, head Weymouth.

Inshore

Sailing,

based

Several of us enjoyed the usual Friday night supper hospitality of Tudor SC but it was when we all started to rig the boats on the Saturday morning…… that was when it all started to go a tad wrong for my helm. Generally, it is a good idea to arrive with all of the boat and all of its fittings. It transpired that his mast chocks were in Salcombe, his spinnaker pole in Henley, and the separator for the jib halyard from the forestay was ….. well not in Langstone. A hurried phone call down the road to WCOA Treasurer Robin Gabbitas produced a replacement spinnaker, and the missing part of the furler gear was fabricated from a compact disk kindly donated by Liz North, Paul Yeadon’s crew. The chocks proved a bit harder, and with the wind conditions they were going to be needed. Finally, a suitably sized flat flint was found on the beach, and it fitted perfectly. Now, all the class rules state is that chocks shall be ‘untapered’, nothing about exotic(ish) materials. Even

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windward mark should have been nicely in line with the fast fleet’s mark. It wasn’t. We all thought this was some cunning ruse by the Race Officer Jack Miller to account for tide. Alas no, the mark was drifting right in the last of the flood tide.

better, we were able to get it out of the mast gate when racing finished. Race 1: we were the last start in a sequence of four fleets, starting 3 minutes after the Lightnings. We sailed 2 laps of a triangle/sausage course, while the fast fleet sailed a windward-leeward sausage, their windward and leeward marks being further apart. Wind was a gentle force 2 to 3, blowing off the land from the Northwest. Thus it was unstable and shifty. Somehow, despite the tide still flooding a large chunk of the fleet managed to be well below the line. Paul Yeadon started on port which seemed to work out fairly well. There was one catch, the

Everyone made it and set off for the wing mark. The first reach was now close hauled as a result of the drifting mark. Robert Cartwright rounded in the lead, except he didn’t think he had. Confused by the drifting mark, he was looking for another mark further to windward, and tacked back onto port and headed off up the harbour. The rest of us, Paul Yeadon, Ian Simpson, Jake Richardson and Philip Meadowcroft all took the simple option of following the Lightning fleet, who seemed to have sussed things out. Robert Cartwright soon spotted his mistake and tacked back in pursuit. Being now high of the rumb line he popped up his spinnaker, and promptly capsized. Apparently, being Impala keelboat sailors, both were waiting for a bowman to do something with the pole. Spinnakers were carried down the next reach, with Meadowcroft able to slip past both Paul Yeadon and Jake Richardson. A slightly lighter second lap saw Meadowcroft creep past Simpson to win. Race 2: the tide was now ebbing. With the wind direction where it was the start line was laid such that tide was flowing straight down it from the committee boat to the pin. When the breeze was up the line was unbiased, when it dropped the tide made it very port biased. This gave us great entertainment watching the previous starts, the wind dropped about 10 seconds before the Medium Handicap start. This resulted in a great bunfight at the pin, with a number of boats, including the odd Wayfarer, having to gybe round to cross the start. Our start was similarly biased, everyone tacking onto port shortly after the gun. The wind

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The Wanderer Edition 119, Autumn 2018 then died. Those that had tacked early were able to find the remaining breeze, those that had waited (like we did) and gone left were stuffed. Ian Simpson rounded in the lead, followed by Paul Yeadon, Jake Richardson and Alistair Lea. The wind then started filling in from behind allowing the back markers to catch up. The two leading Sea Cadet boats helmed by Jake Richardson and Alistair Lea opted to drop their spinnakers at the gybe onto the second leg, allowing Meadowcroft to pull past in what was now quite a decent breeze - I even had to use the toestraps at one point. Paul Yeadon was also able to pass Alistair Lea, but not Sea Cadets Jake Richardson and Joshua Edwards who held on for a highly creditable third place. Ian Simpson and Dave Bardwell’s lead, however, was convincing and we could not catch them. Race 3: It was delayed a few minutes as both the Langstone Harbour dredgers made their way out to collect another load of gravel from off of Selsey Bill. This time the wind and tide played ball, and the line was un-biased. By this time, with the ebb tide fully flowing, going right up the beat paid, the windward mark just being in strong tide. This nearly caught out Meadowcroft who had to shoot up to just round the mark on the second lap. Sailing as low on the run also paid, as the ebbing tide was sweeping the fleet to the right, Meadowcroft was able to sneak past Simpson this way. By the end of the run the tide was getting a bit low, everyone discovered that they couldn’t fully lower their centreboards at the final leeward

Rank

Helm

Crew

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

1541

Philip Meadowcroft Ian Simpson Paul Yeadon Jake Richardson George Mitchell Robert Cartwright Alistair Lea Ella Gambell Frank Atherton

Adam Wickenden David Bardwell Liz North Joshua Edwards Beau Dethridge Peter Rouse Guy Vrady Ollie Gambell David Gascoigne

1004 1626 1707 1689 1092 1746 1688 1404

mark. Paul Yeadon won with Meadowcroft second. Time then to head up to Locks SC for the hog roast. Sunday dawned exactly as forecast – horrid. After watching a few hardy windsurfers the race officer decided to abandon, and the race was now to pack up boats before we all got too wet. But not before the presentations to the Lightning and Wanderer fleets and later in the day there was a four-curry supper at Langstone SC. Huge thanks to all three clubs for so smoothly combining their efforts and resources to produce yet another memorable event.

Club

Henley/Salcombe YC 1 2 -2 Tudor SC 2 1 -3 Whitstable YC 3 -4 1 Barry Sea Cadets 4 3 -4 Reigate Sea Cadets 5 5 -5 Warsash SC RET 6 6 Scarborough Sea Cadets 6 7 -7 Sheppey Sea Cadets 7 RET DNC Pilkington SC DNC DNC DNC

Pts

3 3 4 7 10 12 13 17 20

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Ian Proctor Centenary 2018 Ian Proctor Centenary weekend - held at Bosham SC Speech by Roger Proctor. Report By Robin Gabbitas.

You have probably noticed from the yachting press that 2018 was the centenary of Ian Proctor's birth. A rally was proposed and hosted by Bosham SC, and took place over the weekend of 31 August to 2 September. Ian of course designed the Wanderer - one of his last designs - and some of you will have met and known him as he was very involved in setting up the Class Association and its constitution. I didn't, but I got the impression he liked his creation, and liked the ethos and culture of the Class Association (friendly, informal, thankfully persisting to this day). Our association with the Proctor family does not end there: I think I am right in saying that he gave a Wanderer to each of his family, and I think I have seen them all competing in the Salcombe regattas. Jill Davies (Ian’s daughter in case you did not know) and husband David have of course been enthusiatic participants in Wanderer events and significant founders and contributors to the Class Association. The Bosham rally brought it home, at least to me, that Ian was one of the greatest influences on the world of small boating, a prolific designer and innovator. When he died in 1992, 40% of the dinghy market was being built to Proctor designs. Phew! Anyway back to the rally. The Wanderer Class was well represented. David and Jill Davies were, of course, co-hosts. Philip Meadowcroft was invited to the event as someone who has done so much for the class, with W1541 Black Mischief, recently victorious in the 2018Wanderer National Championships. There were also three other Wanderers at the event belonging the Club members. I am sorry if some of you would have liked to have participated, but there was a limit and out of the boats Ian designed we did pretty well with four boats. I crewed for Philip on the first day. The event was a mixture of display and racing. It coincided with the annual Bosham Classic Boat Revival. There was not much display; it was a pretty full racing event with three races on Saturday and two on Sunday. There was a specially designated Proctor race for those that did not want to, or could not by reason of definition, participate in the Classic Boat races. It included quite a menagerie: including us and the three other Wanderers, Gull number 1, another very old Gull, the prototype Topper (looked like a plank with a sail and Roger

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Proctor perched on it), a quite old Wayfarer and a quite old National 12. Wanderers acquitted themselves well. I think it is fair to say that it was not the most competitive fleet of the weekend, but it did not feel that way. Overall Philip was a very convincing winner. That evening there was a formal dinner at Bosham SC and Roger Proctor’s speech was very special: Everywhere I go in the world where there is water, I find something that my father designed or had a hand in designing or conceiving. Whether it is a boat, a new material, a design development, sailing technique, a fitting, a mast or even a one handed paddle.

“He knew sailing was a different language that could bring people together” Now I want to especially mention David Henshall here. His research and balanced view of Ian Proctor’s legacy has been insightful and enriching for us. As a family we are obviously prejudiced. He was our father after all, supported every step of the way by our mother, herself an unsung hero. So if our mother said he could walk on water we probably believed her, up until the age of 12 or 13 that is. After 13 he was just Dad, sometimes annoying, a wise counsellor, great in a crisis, impossible over small things, never apologetic, confident, fun, demanding, family focused, caring, loving and proud. So we didn’t have, couldn’t have, a balanced view of him. But David has striven to give that balanced view. I even managed to force out of David at the Dinghy Show these immortal words - ‘Ian Proctor was the most popular boat designer of the 20th century’. Thank you, David! Significantly Ian Proctor was modest. He was intensely proud and confident, never doubting is own decisions and abilities. But he was never outwardly boasting or arrogant, when he had plenty of opportunity or cause to be so. So in some ways, because of this modesty and just

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plain good manners, he has perhaps remained more hidden in these days of PR hype and well financed marketing machines. And he hated the politics of sailing officialdom. The Tempest, in design terms, was perhaps his greatest triumph and adopted as an Olympic Class. However, he disliked and resented the political manoeuvring that resulted. It was perhaps his darkest time and an anathema to someone who loved sailing for its own sake. For a family of creative people of all kinds, whether it be physiotherapists, architects, graphic designers or town planners, this is all a tremendous legacy. Sometimes, perhaps, it is a lot to live up to. Most of us in our working career can only dream of just one thing we create becoming widespread and iconic. What a legacy to be blessed with so many designs, developments and concepts accepted across the world and also still to be a fundamental part of the maritime landscape a quarter of a century after his death. Is suspect there is plenty more water to pass under that bridge as well. 100 years ago my father, Ian Proctor, was born. What better place to celebrate his

centenary than here? An iconic and historic sailing club, so near my parent’s lifelong friends the Martins and Cobnor. And where I got into real trouble in a Topper after staying out too late at a party and disgracing him, when my father uttered the immortal words ‘let the bugger drown’. Thank you Bosham. And what a year of events. I have just come back from China where the Topper Worlds

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attracted over 270 sailors from 20 countries around the world. The Topper has nurtured Olympic medalists, 60% of the British Americas Cup team, Round the World champions and many world champions in other classes. The week after next I will be at the iconic Wayfarer International Rally, with yet more sailors from around the world. Still so many active classes such as the Wanderer, Osprey, Tempest, Gull, Minisail, Kestrel, Signet, Bosun and other boats, and also being a significant part of the story for the National 18, International 14, National 12, Merlin Rocket, International Canoe, all with fantastic legacies and more recent developments of their own. Ian Proctor received many design awards for his designs. He was made a Royal Designer for Industry, Yachtsman of the Year for the Tempest, the Topper won the Horner Award for innovation in plastics, three Design Council Awards (at the time more design awards than any other designer in the country, in whatever field). When he died nearly 40% of the dinghy market was being built to his designs. Then featuring in the Best of British Design exhibition at the V&A and Best of British Manufacturing at the Science Museum in 2012 during the Olympics, next to the E-type Jaguar, Concorde and a Rolls Royce jet engine. Obviously my family are very proud of this heritage and so feel very honoured to be attending such an important event. We remember Ian Proctor not only as a great designer but also as an inspiring father with a great philosophy on life. He was disabled during WWII. He didn’t complain about his situation or let it stop him pursuing his passion for sailing. He endured and overcame tremendous obstacles that happily few of us face. I talked about this disability the other day and someone said that he wouldn’t have wanted to be defined by his disability. They were absolutely right, he never let it stop him. However, if we don’t recognize it, we don’t fully acknowledge his triumphs.

He knew sailing was a different language that could bring people together from across the world and help build understanding. It builds new friendships and cooperation across cultures and nations. He loved that idea and what it could achieve. And whenever he designed a boat he always invested his own money in forming a class association. In this he was also an innovator. It fitted perfectly with his central mission for each class, which was to give people a love of sailing for life. So, the Proctor family feel very privileged to be here. There are so many memories for us this year. And this event will create an ever-lasting memory. Our father loved fun, he had a ready laugh. And I think the Proctor family will all agree, that is what he would want most of all out of this weekend, fun, for you all to have great fun! Happy sailing. On the second day, Philip was crewed by Jill Davies, since Gill Veiron and I decided to get my Spiritus out of the dinghy park and have a compelling second race against Black Mischief. And how compelling it was. Philip and Jill lead (just) for most of the first lap but we caught them up and passed them on the second and final lap. On the final downwind run, our lead came down from yards, to feet, and then to inches. Both boats went round the leeward mark with barely an inch between my rudder and Black Mischief’s bow. The final 100 metre reaching dash for the sadly saw us surrender our lead and cross a nanosecond behind our tormentors who were convulsed by hugs and shrieks. A fabulous and unique weekend.

Sailing was his passion and love. He believed sailing could give people so much. Physical and also mental fitness, independence, problem solving skills, planning skills, strategy, confidence, sportsmanship and so much more. He knew winning wasn’t everything, as not everyone can win. You win just by participating and being a true sportsman.

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A Weekend in Whitstable A fleet of 6 Wanderers gathered at Whitstable on Saturday 2nd June for the only open sea racing event on the Wanderer racing calendar. Report by Gavin Barr Numbers were down on previous years, but the fleet were determined to keep up the tradition. The weather refused to co-operate, but, after a postponement for lack of wind, race officer John Boorman, got the first race away, alongside club racing. The Wanderers had their own start, going last to give a clear start in a light NNW breeze, with the flood tide still flowing strongly. The wind was almost in line with the club line (no committee boat being available), and the start was on a biased line. Paul Yeadon and Liz North in 1626, "Surprise" had good boat speed, but difficulty pointing. They were closely shadowed by Ian Simpson and Dave Bardwell in 1004 "Teasel". Gavin Barr and Mark Skipper in 1282 "Thistle" went for pointing, while trying to maintain speed. They pulled to windward of the others, helped by leebowing the tide, and reached the windward mark in the lead, followed by Paul and Liz, then Ian and Dave. Ian and Glenda Nevill in 1098 "Intrepid" slipped past the mark in 4th, with Nick Hawkins, crewed by son Theo, aged 11, in 1604 "Too late the Hero" close behind, followed by Ian Hay and Kate Ahern in 593 "A gallant 35th", bringing up the rear.

Only two laps were sailed, and In the second lap the wind died away further, and veered to east of north, tightening up the run to a reach. Gavin and Mark held the lead, but Paul and Liz dropped their spinnaker and started pulling up. Gavin and Mark in "Thistle" just held on to win, with "Surprise" 2nd, and "Teasel" 3rd. Nick and Theo battled with Ian and Glenda Nevill for 4th place. Theo's skill in playing the genoa pulled the Hawkins through, and they held on to 4th, closing on 3rd on the last leg. Race Officer John Boorman waited for more wind to try and get in a second race, but to no avail. Special thanks to John and his team, coping with difficult conditions, and also to Paul, and to Dave and Ian, who came from distance for a much-curtailed event. Sadly the lack of wind caused cancellation of Sunday's cruise. Full results: 1. W1282, Gavin Barr and Mark Skipper. WYC 2. W1626, Paul Yeadon and Liz North 3. W1004, Ian Simpson and Dave Bardwell, Tudor SC 4. W1604, Nick and Theo (11) Hawkins, WYC. 5. W1098, Ian and Glenda Nevill, WYC. 6. W593, Ian Hay and Kate Ahern, WYC

My Approach to a Battery Driven Outboard By Derrick Nash When I bought Wanderer W1233, it came complete with a two stroke Mariner outboard motor (OBM) which, as with the rest of the boat and accessories, appeared to have had very little use. I thought at the time this was absolutely ideal, until I (or more accurately my wife) came to try and register it with the authorities who govern all rules and regulations where I sail (Lake Constance, Southern Germany). Basically, they were having none of it - two strokes had been banned a long time since and the very thought of having one used again on the lake gave them a fit of the vapours - of the four-stroke kind naturally.

out. However, the Wanderer is quite a beamy boat (wider than a Wayfarer I think) and adding the fact I sail single handed; I found one day, when the wind was a fair bit livelier and blew direct on the bow, I simply did not have the physical power to paddle against the prevailing wind and waves. I am fairly sure this would have been the case had I had oars, even leaving aside concerns of having my back to considerable volumes of oncoming boat traffic plus any additional stowage requirement. On this same occasion, one of the aforementioned motor boats took pity on my struggle and kindly offered to give me a tow, which I accepted gratefully. The ensuing chaos of said motor boat trying to manoeuvre in a confined space, during a bit of a blow plus creating its own considerable wash, whilst I try to catch their tow line standing aboard my bucking vessel, then move the line forward of the shroud to secure to the thwart with a simple half turn for quick release, proved to be a much bigger visitor attraction than normal. Add to this experience my desire to make a longer trip one day, camp overnight, then return, which could potentially including an awful lot of paddling if the wind disappeared; plus the chance of crossing paths with a commercial vessel, or any other type of emergency, led me to reconsider the question of putting my "sail or man power only" principles to one side and look again at buying an OBM.

So I thought, no problem - I'm a sailor - I can sail everywhere. After all, it's not that long ago there were no such things as OBM's and people seemed to manage.......right? Wrong! It is banned to sail in the marina through which I first must travel to get to the lake, which to be fair is probably quite a sensible rule. Undeterred; I dusted off a wooden paddle which came from a used GP14 I once owned and, for some of the 2017 season and the beginning of 2018 I became the newest tourist attraction. People on the shore could watch an eco-warrior type person, stood in the back of his sailing dinghy (a dinghy being a novelty in itself amongst the many motor boats and sail cruisers capable of round the world expeditions) with tiller clamped firmly between his knees, like someone atop an oversized paddle board, making his determined way towards the wide blue yonder.

Consequently, there followed a period of research, involving visits to local chandlers and a boat show to investigate which (four stroke) OBM might fit the bill, but to my mind they all seemed

This worked fine, so long as the wind remained at a modest strength and/or was blowing from a friendly direction - it also gave me a healthy work

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The Wanderer Edition 119, Autumn 2018 a bit on the heavy side. There then followed another episode, the full gory details of which I will spare you, when I bought something that resembled a garden strimmer with a propeller via the Internet. I liked it because it was equipped with a small, air cooled, four stroke engine and was extremely light (around 10kg) which I thought perfect, until again I fell foul of the powers that be who were not about to grant permission to use converted garden machinery on their lake - strike two. Then, by chance, two things happened. Whilst searching for a suitable camp site, my wife spotted a rubber inflatable dinghy which used a tiny electric OBM with a 9 volt motorcycle type looking battery. A few weeks later someone else in the dinghy park I use arrived with a full sized electric OBM and surprising light 12 volt Lithium Ion battery, which they used to propel their 470 out of the marina - perfect! I was sold on this solution and, for me, it offered several advantages. Firstly, there is no way the governing body could have any objection to using an electric, battery powered OBM - which indeed they did not. The total weight of this combination is between 11 and 12kg, with the 12volt / 50 amp hour battery weighing just over 5kg and the motor itself weighing around 7kg, but the good thing is the total weight need not be all in the same place. The cost of the battery was a bit eye watering (circa 600 Euro) but the motor was reasonable (circa 180 Euro) and I was lucky enough to find someone who could make me some bespoke wiring, including an in line fuse and quick release plugs for security and ease of dismount. All together I think the total cost still came to less than what I would have paid for a new "known" make of four stroke OBM, e.g. Honda or Suzuki. I have provided pictures showing how I split the weight by installing the battery a little distance away from the motor, how the motor is stowed whilst sailing (not sure how this would work if I still had my transom traveller not a bridle), the in line fuse and two holes I made below the lip of the rear locker lid for the wires to pass through and finally the quick release plug to separate the motor from the battery. The box in which the battery is stowed I bought from a DIY store and is bonded securely to the floor of the locker. I confess, I did initially notice the additional weight when sailing and so there is of course a compromise between having a lighter boat and the convenience and security of any OBM, but this one is growing on me and the shore side audience must now find something else to fill their Sunday afternoons, which can't be all bad. Copyright ÂŠ 2018 WCOA[uk] All Rights Reserved

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Amazon Pirates The Adventures of a Wanderer By Marcus Hindley (W1317)

Yaar me hearties! There be perils aplenty in gifting three young brothers a copy of Arthur Ransome’s Swallows and Amazons – not least when it is common knowledge that a sailing vessel is available for the brave of heart to commandeer. With seeming inevitability, W1317 – a vessel named ‘Amazon’ succumbed to the risk of appropriation by a scurvy band of fearsome young pirate brothers to serve as Plunder HQ on the Great Lake of Wimbleball. And thus it came to pass that W1317 ‘Amazon’ was unable to complete her tentatively scheduled voyage to Langstone to attend the class Nationals Championships in the year 2018 since her

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destiny was to be pressed into service for a far more mischievous purpose. What followed was an action packed weekend of camping, skullduggery, rain and cake – and much piratical engagement with a variety of watercraft; many of which were populated with similarly youthful crews who plainly understood that the best way to stave off an impending Pirate attack was to “Splash them!”. And it would appear that word of effective defensive tactics travels quickly on the high-seas! Mere skirmishes on the waves were insufficient to distract Amazon’s crew from completing her primary goals of visiting all of the treasure sites detailed on the ancient (and very coffee-stained) Pirate map, including seeking out the legendary Dam at World’s End and thereafter hauling-ashore upon sighting Naughty Island; the latter of which culminated in a wonderful explosion of highenergy mischief, somewhat thankfully resulting in a much different adventure to one that a more mature crew might have anticipated when seeking rest, relaxation (and cake) in a place so-named. Betwixt engagement with other vessels and numerous visits ashore in pursuit of treasure, debauchery, and more cake, opportunities to explore and develop the seamanship of Amazon’s young crew were seized heartily. Our crazy Pirate Captain (Jonathan, aged "9") took full advantage of his ever-increasing height to test Amazon’s toestraps and hike-out over the side for the first time, whereas his brother (my terrifying godson, Alexander, aged "almost 6") took advantage of the opportunity to helm the boat from the crew position using an extending ‘Battlestick’ tiller extension, as did his youngest brother (Henry, aged “almost 4”). Should the boys elect to dedicate themselves to piracy afloat in years to come then those of us in the Wanderer fleet could well find ourselves facing some very real challenges, since they not only clearly enjoyed

The Wanderer Edition 119, Autumn 2018 finely honed comedic-instinct as a mark one homo-sapien infant. Suffice it to say that a mutiny was ultimately called for; primarily in response to a growing manifestation of fear that was evident for all to see in the pupils of said paddle-boarder – not least at his point of realisation that a maniacally grinning toddler was holding the aptly-named ‘Battlestick’, and was therefore to all intents and purposes in sole* directional control of a hostile and fastapproaching pirate vessel... (* well, almost…)

their time afloat, they each demonstrated a wonderful aptitude for sailing vessels of this type. Lessons learned:1. Contrary to popular belief, the primary purpose of a topping lift is to fly the Jolly Roger. 2. When teaching a three-year old the fundamentals of helming a vessel, in seeking to engage maximum levels of interest and engagement it is crucial to never permit words such as “keep the boat pointing towards the paddle-boarder, and see if you can hit him!” pass your lips. Even in jest. Ever. Since remarkably, even when said target is more than 300ft away at the point of engagement, a key learning point is that nothing in nature is in possession of such a

3. I want to be a Pirate! Every boat owner should avail themselves of the opportunity to sail under the Jolly Roger at least once; it is almost guaranteed to awaken the inner-child and can be a truly wonderful way to get to know other crews under the right circumstances! As a final note, the campsite at Wimbleball once again proved itself a fantastic place to spend a few days. And whilst we may have elected to launch from the SW Lakes activity centre this year due to a low water level, in past years we have sailed from Wimbleball SC – where we have always been met with a wonderfully warm and helpful welcome. I can fully recommend this part of the world as a marvellous place to spend a few days; the lovely 385 acre reservoir is a bonus. https://www.southwestlakes.co.uk/location/wimbl eball-lake/ http://www.wimbleballsc.org.uk

2018 Wanderer Inland Championships Report by Adam Wickenden Photos kindly reproduced by Richard Janulewicz of SharkBait.org.uk Admirably hosted by members of the Bewl Sailing Association, 11 Wanderers made the trip, including one each from the Reigate and the Sheppey Sea Cadets over the September 15/16 weekend. The last three Wanderer Championships have all been two-day events, which only saw one day’s sailing. High winds or zero wind scuppered one of the days on each occasion. Would we break the curse this time? More importantly, would the Brown Trout pub in nearby Lamberhurst have any Bewl trout on the menu for the Saturday night fleet dinner? Saturday dawned with a gentle 7knot breeze blowing from the Southwest. One race was run before lunch, two back-to-back after lunch. Race 1: The wind allowed Race Officer Jo Mayes to set a triangle/sausage course. The committee boat was anchored right outside the club, with the beat up the western arm of the lake. This did however lead to a significantly port-biased line, along with a rather large committee boat set at the port end. General consensus was start on port. Diana Sewell and Dave Bardwell in 1004 got it right, and lead round the first mark, pursued down the first reach, which was nearly a run, by Matt and Ethan Kelly in 1729 and Philip Meadowcroft and Adam Wickenden in 1541. Diana Sewell had the inside overlap on Matt Kelly at the mark but they somehow conspired to lock themselves together and then drift on past the mark. This automatically let in Meadowcroft and Wickenden to set off on the second reach though it was too tight to continue flying the spinnaker. The second beat required us all to sail through the start/finish line before continuing upwind. The wind was, well, a bit floppy. It was one of those days where you couldn’t really formulate a decisive plan. We found that going right along the club house shore paid as there was more wind. We would then tack away from the shoreline only when we were about to run over a group of visiting Scouts

learning to canoe whilst Diana Sewell along with Lindsey Weatherley and Hillary Handley in 1795 went further to the left. This paid with the direction of the shifts, but not with the wind strength – a conundrum which bedevils dinghy sailors. Meadowcroft in 1541 won, followed by Lindsey Weatherley with Diana Sewell in third. Race 2: The course was left the same, the wind had backed slightly. Thus, another port tack start. Diana Sewell got it right again, followed by Meadowcroft, Lindsey Weatherley and Matt Kelly. This time the first leg was more of a reach. Going low seemed a good option and going high would sail you into a hole, even if the rustling of Lindsey Weatherley’s crisp new spinnaker above you tempted you up in a gust. Meadowcroft managed to pass Diana Sewell and Dave Bardwell on the run on the second lap. However, the finish line gate created a moment of confusion for Meadowcroft who had inexplicably convinced himself that the race had been shortened (it hadn’t of course) and he ploughed forward on port towards his imaginary finishing line only to face a fast-approaching Dianne Sewell on starboard. A crash tack was inevitable with your correspondent making robust enquiries about his helm’s plans. Inevitably Sewell and Weatherley, close behind got ahead. More accurate reading of the shifty breeze (with the odd stroke of good fortune) in the western section of the lake allowed Meadowcroft to claw back into second place and eventually overhaul Sewell on the reaches. Meadowcroft won, Diana Sewell second and Matt Kelly finishing strongly in third. Further down the fleet there was plenty of close sailing involving Peter and Charles Cutts, Nigel and Maria Lamb, and Paul Cross and Jeff Leyshon. Race 3: Back to back straight after race 2. Diana Sewell again won the port tack start and lead most of the way. It was close, and the wind continued its shiftiness. This allowed for some close racing and a

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The Wanderer Edition 119, Autumn 2018 fair amount of position changes at the front of the fleet. It took until the last gybe on the last lap for Meadowcroft to pass Sewell, thanks to his crew’s quick ‘n’ slick spinnaker setting. With three bullets Meadowcroft and Wickenden had won the regatta, with the battle for second remaining between Diana Sewell and Lindsey Weatherley. A somewhat stronger wind with gusts up to 20knots was forecast – and, indeed, delivered - for Sunday. Two races were on the card. Firstly, we were to sail as part of the Bart’s Bash handicap races, alongside Flying Fifteens, Lasers and the ‘Mariners of Bewl’ Sailability. This was not to count as part of the championship. The fourth championship race was then to be held after lunch. As Meadowcroft had already won with three first he elected to swap places and let his crew steer in Bart’s Bash, and then to sit out the last race The wind was more southerly, with the beat up through Bewl’s southern arm. A square-ish course was set by the OD, with a nice trap included – the first reach was set to take the fleet straight through a large hole under one of Bewl’s headlands. Now the trick of doing a port tack flyer is to have the courage of your convictions. Peter Cutts in 998, crewed for this race by Dave Bardwell, pulled off a perfect one. He easily cleared ourselves in 1541 by a good half a boat length, and we were the only boat that was up on the line at the start The Flying Fifteens, who had all engaged in a bunfight at the committee boat, were no problem.

1541 was the lead Wanderer, finishing 4th on handicap, behind two Fifteens and a Laser. Lindsey and Hillary came in 11th, Peter Cutts in 12th, Nick Hawkins in 13th and the Reigate Sea Cadet boat of George Mitchell and Amy Lewis in 15th Race 4: reverted to the triangle/sausage configuration of Saturday, although as in the morning the beat was up the southern arm of Bewl, and with Starboard hand mark roundings. Diana Sewell and Dave Bardwell managed to be over the line at the start. This resulted in Nick Hawkins and Mike Judson in 1604 from IOSSC leading round the first mark, closely followed by Lindsey and Hillary in 1795. With the wind still rather fresh none of the fleet elected to carry their spinnakers, except for Diana and Dave in 1004. They had rounded the first mark last, and needed to catch up. The race for the lead was tight with Lindsey Weatherley and Hilary Handley and Nick Hawkins and Mike Judson in contention all the way around. However, Diana Sewell and Dave Bardwell, flying

And then Peter blinked!! OK – I know Fifteens are big and scary, and they do tend to sail through things rather than round them. However, Peter blinked, and then tacked. Result – he became sandwiched between a Flying Fifteen and another Wanderer. The rest of us made our way fairly unscathed to the first mark, a starboard rounding. Thus, on to the first reach, and the aforementioned trap. Everyone (well all the Fifteens) went high. The lead Laser, followed by ourselves in 1541, headed pretty much straight downwind. This is the benefit of not being in the lead in such a situation, we went straight under all but the lead Fifteen to round the gybe mark in 3rd. Just like sailing at Salcombe, minus the moving water bit. This pattern was to repeat itself for the remaining 3 laps. Copyright © 2018 WCOA[uk] All Rights Reserved

Inland Champs continued their spinnaker, were reeling the fleet in. By the end of the last reach Diana and Dave had passed into a nailbiting dash for first place, thus securing an overall second in the event. Lindsey Weatherley’s second in Race 4 secured her third place overall.

If you’d like to see more of these fantastic pictures and maybe own one of them, please visit Richard’s website at www.sharkbait.org.uk where you can order these as prints and gifts. Clockwise from top left: Phillip Meadowcroft and Adam Wickenden Lift the winners cup, awrded by Jo Mayes. Lindsey Wetherley awarded the Anglo Marine Racing Plate. Amy Lewis and George Mitchell from Reigate Sea Cadets were awarded the Betty Proctor Memorial Plate. Diana Sewell and Dave Bardwell, runners up, despite meeting only an hour before the race!

Sail

Helm

Crew

Club

Net

(12/DNC)

(3)

1541

Philip Meadowcroft

Adam Wickenden

1004

Diana Sewell

Dave Bardwell

Henley SC Salcombe YC Bewl SA

1795

Lindsey Weatherley

Hillary Handley

Cotswold SC

(4)

1729

Matt Kelly

Ethan Kelly

(12/DNC)

1604

Nick Hawkins

Mike Judson

(7)

477

Nigel Lamb

Maria Lamb

Spinnaker SC Isle of Sheppey SC Chipstead SC

(12/DNC)

1099

Paul Cross

Jeff Leyshon

Whitstable YC

(8)

998

Peter Cutts

Charles Cutts

(12/DNC)

1689

George Mitchell

Amy Lewis

(11)

740

Ray Tennant

Sue Humphries

(12/DNC)

1688

Ella Gambell

Alfie Allan

Bewl SA Reigate Sea Cadets Bewl SA Sheppey Sea Cadets

(12/DNC)

West Country Cruise Azure blue seas, sandy beaches, fantastic company, mostly blissful winds. Report By Robin Gabbitas, photos by Gill Veiron

Another year, another West Country Cruise. In case your memory has faded and/or sitting during a downpour or snow when this edition of “The Wanderer” magazine is published, in July we were in the middle of a heatwave, at least in the South of England and, apart from about two drops of rain during Wandererfest, we had not seen rain for weeks. The West Country climate did not let us down, arriving at Percuil, we actually had some cloud and rain, but it was

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The Wanderer Edition 119, Autumn 2018

mercifully short lived and the sun came out, but much cooler than Bosham. It was good to escape 30 degree heat, endless discussion about Brexit, and hard borders, but not altogether. Rick and Steffi and the Gillespies had rented the same lodge, and we got one next to the one we rented last year, and I think the campers went to the same site. We elected on the final day, fuelled with left over booze, to do the same next year call us creatures of habit or not? Attendance this year was modest, but what the cruise lacked in numbers it certainly made up for in jollity. Rick and Steffi and the Gillespies again hosted us on the evening before the first cruise with some delicious food and rather a lot of drink. But enough of this we came to sail. The first day had the best wind forecast, so accross the estuary to Helford River it was. Yours truly rather annoyingly did not make it for reasons of exit problems of his own, but the others did and by the sound of it was a cracking sail, if a bit wet for the crews. Next day, we set off down Carrick Roads, northish, to Loe Beach, Steffi's favorite. The wind sort of gave up on us past Mylor so we motored on to the beach where there was sunshine, swimming and lunch. Shirley, whom nobody can accuse of travelling light, produced a three course meal, a bathing machine and a change of clothing from Frank's bulging locker. Frank did the classic of losing his anchor by tossing it in the water without checking whether the bitter end was secure. The brave swam and Shirley must have stubbed her toe on Frank's anchor resulting in a half hearted debate about salvage rights. A sea breeze began to dominate and we had a lovely sail back, detouring to see the seals basking on Black Rock.

had chosen three possible destinations, depending on progress, going south round the point and to one of the many beaches. So you can tell that we covered a good bit of the Falmouth sound. The wind was much better than was forecast and we sailed on to Towan Beach (I think), another Steffi favorite, which with some irony was only some 20 minutes walk from where we were all staying. You always learn something from these events and I was rather apprehensive of getting the beached boats back in the water without damage, my boat bearing scars of Poole Harbour on one of her very early trips. But this time Frank organised us with fenders and with four or five people to balance the boats, we rolled them on the fenders simply and undamaged to the water. Simple. The last time I witnessed this technique was on Christopher Robinson's boat, remember him? when every one of his rollers burst, I think, on East Head. Reminder to self to carry some proper fenders in future. The hard border at Percuil, the bit between the sea and the dinghy park, like the Irish border, does not get any easier, especially with only three crews (Rick rather sensibly had a swinging mooring). I suppose it's a balance between few boats to push with few people or more boats to move with more people. I think I prefer the latter. At the final get together, we did the the Trewince BBQ (sausages were excellent) and then tried desperately and unsuccessfully to finish the booze, which was supplemented by some rather good whisky courtesy of Tony. Frank really is an amazing raconteur, as well as a useful pusher of boats. He should do stand-up. A great event. Thanks again to Rick and Steffi for looking after us so well; and of course the company of Frank, David, the Gillespies, and Shirley. Particpants: Rick Bowers and Steffi Frank Atherton and David Gascoigne Tony and Pat Gillespie Shirley Williams Robin Gabbitas and Gill

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Provisional Programme 2019 DAY / DATE

EVENT

SAT MAR 2

CONFIRMED

AGM London Boat Show, Alexandra Palace, North London 1.30pm Entry without charge if not attending the Show

SAT/SUN

PROVISIONAL

APRIL 27-28

Two-day Racing event at WEST OXFORDSHIRE SC Joint meeting with the Wayfarer Association

SUN

PROVISIONAL

MAY 12 OR 19

TRY A WANDERER DAY Picnic and fun sailing at MARLOW SC

SAT/SUN

CONFIRMED

JUNE 15-16

Racing on Saturday, Cruising on Sunday WHITSTABLE YC

JUNE

PROVISIONAL

DATE TO BE FIXED

WEST COUNTRY CRUISE Based from Percuil

THU/SUN

CONFIRMED

JULY 4-7

WANDERERFEST AND BOSHAM MASTERS Cobnor Point, Chidham, All sorts of sailing and socialising

FRI/SUN

PROVISIONAL

SALCOMBE LAID BACK WEEKEND

SEPT 20-22 OR OCT 4-6

Fun sailing and great eating and drinking

TBA

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS INLAND CHAMPIONSHIPS

And finally.... Simon Edsforth has kindly taken over and he has applied his skills to producing his first edition of “The Wanderer”. It has been good fun working with him on this my final edition. Simon has applied himself vigorously to his new task and the result is absolutely first-class. Encouraged by our Founder Chairman Andy Peter, I took on the Editor’s job with Issue No 4 back in 1986 – that’s 32 stimulating years ago when I was a mere lad. I tried to pass on the job around 2001-2 but with the new editor moving to Scotland and without regular connection with events I found myself Editor for a second time. Technology has changed the nature and mechanics of producing “The Wanderer” and my dear wife, Jill, has been at the sharp end in coping with ageing desktop software and my less than

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specific instructions on how I wanted articles and advertisements to appear. She is beside herself with her new-found and well-earned freedom never mind my appreciation. I have never been short of material from Wanderer sailors (Word for text please, no formatting, and jpegs for images min 1MB) and from marine photography professionals. Please bombard Simon as much as you have done so with me. Now back to Black Mischief and dear old Presto and getting them ready for yet another memorable season of racing, cruising, and pottering………sailing with friends. Cheers, Philip Meadowcroft

The Wanderer, Autumn 2018

Articles inside

2018 Wanderer Inland Championships

A Weekend In Whitstable

Ian Proctor Centenary

WandererFest 2018

2018 Wanderer National Championships