Published by the Open Canoe Sailing Group

SueB paddled in her new "Pack", a 10-foot long Old Town open canoe that is incredibly light and seems to perform well. JohnS sailed his outrigger boat but was muttering about bonfires and new plans. Ellen and JeffB sailed together in Njuzu (see Gossip Oct 05) while Paul and Renate sailed their individual boats. As the afternoon progressed a light breeze blew up affording some sailing before the flotilla returned to the beach.

Jan had kindly booked a table for us at The Outgate Inn and we enjoyed an excellent meal before turning in for a very wet night's camping. It should be noted that our Chairman was last out of his sleeping bag the following morning (see photo!).

On left: The (Acting) Chairman of the OCSG slumming it in his car, for heaven's sake! Still, he's restoring the customary bivouac style of the OCSG's very first chairman, a certain JB.

As Sunday brought no more wind, we paddled to Ambleside with the inevitable visit to a coffee shop. DaveS had joined the group, and plans were discussed for Peter & Penny's new Polynesian style outrigger canoe to be made by Solway Dory. The "tyranny of choice" was evident when making decisions - what wood to use, what rig, what type of sailcloth, aluminium versus wooden masts, buoyancy of the ama (outrigger float), etc., etc.

The paddle back was uneventful and although the lack of wind was disappointing, calm water does give you the opportunity to appreciate the surroundings. We saw a kingfisher and a roe deer on the shore and the fells were wreathed in layers of mist. This meet always seems to provide a pleasant, relaxed way to end the season and an opportunity to discuss plans for the next year.

Njuzu (RoyB)

A photo of Njuzu wasn't available for last month's GOSSIP, but this one gives a fair impression of JeffB's craft. You can see where the chine of the hull ends, and merges into the bent ('tortured') ply. The picture was taken in calm conditions during the Balquhidder trip in July. Jeff and Ellen look to be sitting very comfortably.

Windermere (DaveT)

A thoroughly dispiriting forecast on Wednesday: predicted winds in excess of 25 mph, heavy rain, hail and low temperatures, especially at night. Noeline and I seriously considered not going to this meet but Steve had gone to a lot of trouble to organize the weekend so the least we could do was to turn up on Saturday morning. It would be a chance to socialize with friends, too.

On Saturday morning we set off in rain, but as we drove north, we could see bright sun and blue skies over the southern Lakeland hills. We arrived at South Camp in fine weather, to be greeted by hardier, more committed members who had been on site since Friday and were already rigged and launching by 10:30 am. Conditions were light winds, some breaks in the clouds with occasional light showers, and it just got better as the hours passed. Sunday was a very pleasant day, again light winds, but also some very warm sunshine for good sailing/cruising/racing. Once again, as has occurred many times throughout the year, the forecast of bad weather proved unfounded, good camping and sailing was enjoyed by all. I relate this experience to encourage members not to be deterred by forecasts. The meet has been organized and your support will add to everyone's enjoyment.

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