Laser Fleet, written by William Whittaker, Fleet Captain

 

It seems like only a short time ago since I joined the club 4 years ago. However since that time the laser fleet has been rejuvenated from almost a ghost park to a busy boat park with a regular number of sailors. The vast majority of the fleet are new members to the club and have either, like me, started sailing after a number of years in the wilderness, or have started sailing for the first time as a result of attending one of the club’s excellent training courses, or have moved to the area and quiet rightly chosen Draycote as thier new sailing club. Whatever the reason they have selected the laser as their boat of choice because it’s a great way to enjoy sailing relatively maintenance free and inexpensively.

 

So what about the sailing? Well, last year’s sailing was as close as ever with the fleet continuing to grow throughout the Wednesday season and even the winter. Regulars Ian Clarke and Rob Still (without gloves!!) put us all to shame sailing throughout the cold, with myself and others sailing when the wind was up and the lake clear of ice!!! However with the increasing numbers Wednesdays have been strong, so much so that we now have our own start once more on Wednesday evenings. This decision was backed up with a turnout of up to12 lasers sailing in week one of the series, with many boats unable to make the early start. This boads well for future weeks and a close series.

 

The social side of the fleet has continues to blossom with the Wednesday evening BBQ at the beginning and end of summer, irrespective of any wind and rain now becoming a regular fixture. In addition to this we held the annual social at the fleet captain’s house which involved everyone bringing along an allocated course and enjoying a horse racing night and free flowing drinks. I am happy to report that the results of horse racing though were far less close than the racing on the water but was nevertheless just as enjoyable with Chris Dickinson taking 1^st prize. I for one hope the fleet continues to be a friendly and enjoyable one for everyone to join.