"I finished the proa when I got back from the UK and it sailed but had a pronounced inclination to sail in circles, so I put a full-length keel, 6" deep, on it. This improved matters but not enough, so I pulled it up and we went to Canada to cogitate on possible modifications (the one curved side is obviously the cause of the tendency, but as that is fundamental to the design a solution had to be found. I put a rudder at each end of the proa, connected both together and both moving the same way.
The trial the other day was a success, sailed across the bight and back - no problems. The wind was light, probably the worst conditions as the rudders will be more effective at faster speeds. Now I need a decent breeze to evaluate its full potential."
Who Are We? (Noeline and DavidT)
What is your background in water-based activities?
I (David) had no canoeing experience before joining the OCSG. In my youth I rowed for a rowing club. After retiring early (golden handshake) from aircraft design I needed a full-time hobby.
How did you get to know about the OCSG?
Pure luck; sitting on the beach at Abersoch in 1987 I saw a canoe sailing across Cardigan Bay. The owner said it was a DIY thing after you'd bought a canoe, but recommended first that I buy John Bull's "Sail Your Own Canoe". I did so, contacted John, he invited me to attend a meet, and I've been coming ever since.
When and why did you join?
Having made contact with the group I liked what I saw - all sorts of home-made sailing canoes, very friendly people and a programme of events through the year. I followed the group around for 12 months, watching what they did, bought a Pyranah Prospector and started making the conversion. Not knowing anyone well enough to seek help it was all my own work except for the lateen sail, for which Noeline did all the sewing. I turned up at the first 1999 meet at Ullswater; April, bright sunny weather, gentle breezes. By the time I'd put it together everyone had sailed off apart from AndyS who gave it the quick once-over. I set sail. I sailed for 6 or 7 hours all alone. I was convinced this was what I wanted. Noeline doesn't canoe or indulge in watersports, but she attends meets with me.
How has your sailing developed?
I slowly changed various features on the Prospector as I observed other people's ideas, copying what I felt was good. I made various sail types (all yellow), capsized many times, but think that my skills have improved, and I'm still enjoying every minute.
What is your present boat?
Solway Dory cedar-strip Avocet with (yellow) lug ketch rig. I've got more cockpit space and it gives Noeline confidence to sail occasionally.
What do you most enjoy about canoe sailing?
Portability, easy storage; can experiment with sails, etc., meeting other canoeists.
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