No wind and hot for our last Tuesday youth session. We planned an outing to Pinhay Bay to make the most of conditions and practise seamanship skills. Give a choice, go or sail in a very fickle breeze, the majority of YMs voted for the trip! Almost ready – but no key for PJ could be found! Someone had taken her out on the Sunday, no one knew who was responsible…..but Jeremy came up with an emergency solution. Relief! PJ started and picked up her crew!
Plans for practising sailing skills and water activities were coordinated by Jim. He had PerryRib, crewed by Simon and Harvey and the Imps, towing 2 Picos steered by Tom and Elliot. Jack took a bunch of his Ints in Rescue 1. Jeremy left first with Harry, Ray and 2 YMs. Tim helmed LymeRib, bringing up the rear with Ella, Jo and Sally. Lisa was happy to stay ashore with Jane, not so happy but with her arm in plaster, taking over Beach.
A different shore to approach.
Sailing ashore, returning to the Rib, helpers ready, Jack instructing
Ideal conditions presented for landing and recovering exercises, picking up crews, swapping boats, getting in and out of Ribs from the water, getting into PJ by ladder, swimming controlled distances to Ribs from shore or another boat. Tom and Elliot proved very flexible helpers, our YMs completed the exercises, including spending time in pairs on shore while they waited to be picked up. All wore buoyancy aids at all times. The water was clear with visibility even down to 4 meters. Boulders near the shore had to be avoided, capsize practice in deeper water, sun to keep everyone warm.
Jim and Jack rotate Pico sailors
Imps Ollie and Tia take their turn to leave the shore and head for the Rib.
Tom and Elliot watch both ways ready for their next move between Picos and Ribs
Not to be outdone, Jack takes his turn from PJ
Tim moves LymeRib into position for Sally to catch the action..
Guess who made the splash?
Elliot ready to pickup the Pico after Tia has rescued Hector, Ollie has Sam
Then the capsizes….
Elliot on hand to right the boat
Tom picks up crew but looks a bit overloaded!
Simon gets them going, all returning to their transport back to harbour, leaving Tom and Elliot to sail
A bit of a ride on the way back, a steadier pace for the adults’ Rib, and PJ made it to her mooring on the falling tide. All happy and smiling, all checked in! A final debrief at the hose box when kit was put away, and we said goodbye – until September, we hope! Thanks to all our team and all our YMs for their positive attitude. Sally, Jim and volunteers.
Secretary.lrscltd@gmail.com 01297 442373