East Lothian Yacht Club Dinghy Racing

Bill Sneddon

Matthew — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 16:12:59 GMT

Bill is a past Hon Treasurer of the Club and long-time regular member of the Buffties’ corner on Friday evenings and Saturday afternoons in the Clubhouse.

He started sailing his beloved Westerly Warick, Sandpebble, in 1984/85 to replace a Seafarer. Sandpebble is again moored in the harbour and, although now under new management, Bill visits the harbour everyday to check on her.

Sandpebble was raced in the early days but as time passed Bill’s preferred wind condition became “1knt gusting 2knt”. Over the years he became an expert consultant – every day he would consult the weather from his front door in Victoria Road and decide if he would go sailing.

To mark the occasion of Bill’s 100^th birthday (9^thJuly) a card and congratulations have been sent on behalf of the Club.

The Committee are also pleased to announce a proposal to offer Bill Honorary Membership in recognition of his service and years of membership.

2025 Keelboat Regatta

Matthew — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 13:49:20 GMT

ELYC Keelboat Regatta 21^st and 22^nd June for the Brian Cameron Memorial Trophy
Racing starts at 9.30am on Saturday and 10.30am on Sunday
Entry fee £10 payable on the day
For further details and to join keelboat racing WhatsApp group, please contact: secretary@elyc.org.uk
Bar open to all members from 3.00pm on Saturday and 3.30pm on Sunday.

Open Regatta 2025

Matthew — Sat, 24 May 2025 12:37:22 GMT

Registration is open for the ELYC Open Regatta 2025. Click here to register!

RYA Celtic Cup

Bruce — Mon, 12 Feb 2024 09:35:31 GMT

Well done to Roo and Alastair who were selected to represent Scotland in the RYA Celtic Cup.

You can view the results here.

Photos - Winter 1

Bruce — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 10:20:37 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided some photos of the first of the Winter Series dinghy races. A glorious day for sailing, for those who could hold onto their breakfast in the rather tricky sea state.

Closed Regatta 2023

Bruce — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 18:02:53 GMT

The Closed Regatta is always a well attended event which serves a couple of additional purposes, over and above traditional club racing.

First of all it allows sailors who are perhaps new to racing, to experience Regatta conditions complete with class flags, racing signals, accurately laid courses, true start lines and staggered class starts, all of which add something a little extra to the experience.

It also allows willing club volunteers some practice in setting up for a Regatta in a slightly less pressured environment, compared to what we'd find in our Open Regatta or a National Championship.

As with all of our events, we rely heavily on members helping out, learning new skills and supporting each other to put on events which keep the club rolling. The Closed Regatta is one of these events which helps enable the club to be so highly thought of when it comes to putting on a show. Make no mistake, from Hayling Island to Channonry, we are well known for it. So kudos to all those who step up. A quote from a pal who used to work at HISC said before the 200 Nationals "ELYC has a great name. Uncorked at hayling Island sailing club for 5 years (brilliant job didn't even know you could be employed by a sailing club!) But everyone bar none rated elyc for venue hospitality and race mgt."

The 2023 Closed Regatta was no different and on behalf of the competitors we'd like to thank John, Mick and Keith on the Committee Boat. Ellen, Brendan, Simon, Fiona, Daniel and Jon on the RIBs. Anna on the Beach and of course Ainsley, Alistair and Debbie for covering the absolutely critical Bar-and-Pies aspect of the show. Sincere apologies if we've missed anyone here. (If we have, please let us know)

On the sailing front, we were provided with sunshine, light breeze and a slightly confused sea which eventually settled as the day wore on. The race committee and RIB crews did a great job of setting and adjusting the course as the breeze shifted slightly during the day. The fleet were treated to 3 good races with two being of the triangle variety, either side of a windward leeward. Results and pictures are available below.

Thanks and well done to all!

1) Sailing Instructions

2) Final Results Silver

3) Final Results Gold

4) Pictures from the day

Racing Marks Updated

Bruce — Wed, 12 Jul 2023 09:53:33 GMT

The map of the racing marks has been updated. You can view it here.

May Island Race Report

Bruce — Sun, 25 Jun 2023 16:56:22 GMT

May Island Race Report, courtesy of Steve Fraser.

Photo album available here.

Yesterday, we took part in ELYC’s annual race around the Isle of May, far out in the Firth of Forth. Today, I’m content to relax my creaking back timbers. It took us around six hours and ten minutes to complete the circumnavigation of both the May and the mighty Bass.(we’d done the same trip in reverse in under four hours in stronger winds just two weeks previously).

The promised wind blew, we had a goodish start, narrowly beating Bill and Grace in Boracay to be first around the windward mark, thus avoiding the usual carnage, a wee stumble and then the kite flying bravely. Martin Baillie in Westaway came close, threatening a luff, Robbie Lawson and crew in Rebekah stretched out in front with McGonigal hanging on to his coat-tails by diligent and endless tweaking of the spinnaker.

The nine-strong boat fleet (a long time since ELYC raced so many simultaneous keelboats?) hung close together. We were making 6 knots over the ground past the Craig until the 30m contour. Then, slowly we separated, as the wind dropped, becoming more strung out, but all on a north-easterly course to the north end of the May. Most boats were on a line well to the north of us and evidently in different wind, which came and went. South of us the two Alistairs in Aquila came on strong, seriously narrowing the gap to Fidra (the boat) then faded as the wind dropped. The front of the main fleet to our north pulled ahead, then dropped back at the fickle dictates of the weather gods. We’d chosen a different line but converged within a few boat lengths behind Rebekah at the North Ness, carefully skirting the shoreline, sails by the lee, seals, too many to count, fishing in the tidal slack.

Iain’s speculation that there would be low turbulence in the lee of the island, (it’s a wing shape in a westerly, you see) proved to be spot-on as we gybed the kite and followed Rebekah’s fast rock-and-buoy hopping reach down the May’s eastern shore, a good 1nm at 5 knots. Still ahead at the South Ness, Rebekah (prematurely and fatefully it transpired) dropped her kite, we sailed over her, kite still up, trying to luff her and gleefully feed our dirty wind. We’d both more or less cleared the May before the next boat (Aquila) was on the downward reach. The wind dropped off as we left the May-constricted streamlines, the spinnaker tidily returned to its chute, sails set close-hauled and bow pointing well to the east of the Bass, sometimes even down the firth towards Dunbar.

We ghosted along in the light wind, never dropping below 2 knots except in brief exploratory tacks towards Fife, soon discarded. ‘It’s not a boat for pinching’ was Iain’s refrain. Go for boat speed, not height is the irresistible conclusion. To Neil’s delight, we sailed through rafts of puffins, razorbills and guillemot, noisily feasting on the bounty of the hidden deeps. Flights of gannets surface skimmed, Bass homeward or outwards on new raids. We gradually left every one else behind, paying close attention to each tiny shift, perhaps our new mainsail helped just a little bit to maintain momentum in the lulls between the weak ish puffs. I’d been obsessively studying the weather forecast all week.

The highest resolution 2km grid forecasts had predicted a large dead zone to the east of the May, to form in the afternoon, others forecasting a sea breeze filling in later. It would have a grand thing to fly the spinnaker out and then back again. But the cement factory down the Firth, a useful early weather vane stayed resolutely pluming eastward. It seems we’d got south of the May just in time to catch the last of the weak puffs, enabling us to make a good southing. Rebekah languished away to our north in what appeared to be a mirror-like flat calm. ‘Come on the wind, you’re pinching, come off the wind, was our low-wind litany, some patches of confused swell knocking the bow off-course in the light airs. Eventually only Neil could distinguish the following boats through his binoculars, distant smudges of white against deep blues and high piled cloud over the now distant cliffs of May. We heard later ( in the bar) that the rest of the fleet had sailed into a dead patch, stuck drifting in the now flooding tide.

Inevitably Jon Shaw, crewing on Mischief temporarily abandoned ship, further proving his otter-like qualities by swimming alongside. I believe they had a nice picnic on Red Lady, making the best of the dead lull. I scoffed my soggy tasteless coop sanny, slugged a tepid Diet Coke, kept on the wind (such as it was) all the while inwardly revelling in our good fortune. I can’t say for sure, it’s said that Ricky on Free Spirit slung a hammock and snoozed. David Robertson on Two Six O openly boasted of catching fresh mackerel and gloated on social media with full disclosure on method of cooking. All this was well beyond our ken. I suspect that it was at this stage that most boat’s bowed to the inexorable, lowered sail, dropped their outboards and motored home.

Meanwhile back on Fidra…..Swirling particles of fish-killing gannets spiralled overhead as we sailed on in splendid isolation around the Bass picking up a lift, then a brief stronger downdraught then inshore towards Canty Bay. We finished on the best wind of the day, beating hard all the way to the line with numerous short tacks, first inshore to catch the wind bend, then out to evade the land-spill, and then again tackling inshore as the land breeze died off further off-shore .

A brief snatch of the ‘Ride of the Valkyries’ over the marine radio was all we had heard all day, until the laconic voice of Jim Sinclair (Officer of the Day who had stayed at his solitary post well beyond his duty) welcomed us home as we blasted through the line on a final lift, Fidra making short work of the wind against tide chop. That both my crew we’re definitely overdressed for the occasion was evident when they stripped off salopettes to reveal sweat stained T-shirts whilst sinking well earned pints.

Thanks to Mike and Gerry from Team Kinsman for keeping us all safe and to all who took part. I’m nursing a quiet hope that we can rejuvenate the cruising/ racing fleet at ELYC. What a nice bunch of people. Yesterday, we made a good start! We were well on to our third pint before Rebekah made it back, the only other boat to finish. Additional brownie points to Robbie, Keith and Cameron for persistence methinks.

"Fidra" Wins!

Bruce — Mon, 19 Jun 2023 09:35:00 GMT

Congratulations to the crew of "Fidra", on winning the Brian Cameron Memorial Trophy on Saturday 17th of June .

The winning crew featured Steve "Drone Boy" Fraser, Iain "New Wellies" McGonigal and Mike "Cycled fae Haddington" Smith.

NBHS Wins Brown Cup

Bruce — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 08:09:11 GMT

Congratulations to North Berwick High School on winning the most prestigious Scottish Schools Sailing Championship (AKA The Brown Cup) on Monday 12th June at Loch Earn Sailing Club.

There were 33 schools represented with 14 teams competing. The collaboration, sportsmanship and friendship were evident. Saturday and Sunday were coaching days followed by fires on the shore and loads of fun.

The winning team were Ben Hay and Callum Masson in their 29er (2nd in the general handicap fleet), Peter Moseley (awesome in his ILCA 6), Rory Ferrier (3rd in the general handicap and 1st ILCA). Stru sailed well in an ILCA 4.7 (thanks McKinnons) and happily photobombed the winning team shot in support of his team mates.

Keelboat Calendar Updates

Bruce — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 07:17:58 GMT

Please be aware that a couple of updates have been made to the keelboat racing calendar.

The May island race will now take place on the 24^th June starting at 10.00.
There will be a Yacht Regatta on the 9^th July start at 10.30.

Both could offer great opportunities for crewing.

Pictures - Spring 4 - 29/04/23

Bruce — Tue, 02 May 2023 08:47:23 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided a selection of pictures of racing from Spring 4 on Saturday 29/04/2023. You can view them here.

Pictures - Midweek Early 1

Bruce — Mon, 03 Apr 2023 08:17:49 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with pictures from Midweek Early 1, taken on Wednesday 23rd March. You can view them here.

Pictures - Frostbite 3 - 21/01/23

Bruce — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 16:20:49 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with the first pictures of the 2023 season, taken on Saturday 21st January. You can view them here.

Pictures - Winter 4 - 03/12/22

Bruce — Sun, 04 Dec 2022 11:32:49 GMT

Here are some pictures from a great days racing, taken during Winter 4 on 03/12/22.

Presenting - The 2022 Trophy Winners

Bruce — Mon, 28 Nov 2022 11:17:38 GMT

The bar was at its buzzing best again for our annual prize giving for the 2022 season.

You can view pictures of the evening here.

An honours list is available here and we'd like to highlight Rachel's excellent winning entry for the Coates-Walker Quaich, which you can read here.

Well done to all!

RS200 Rooster National Tour

Bruce — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 13:24:22 GMT

Congrats to John Wilson & Laura Glover on winning the RS200 Rooster National Tour!

Photos - Winter 2

Bruce — Sun, 13 Nov 2022 13:20:55 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with some snaps of dinghy racing on 12/11/22. You can view them in this album.

Sailing is Bullship...

Bruce — Sun, 02 Oct 2022 08:43:58 GMT

Sailing is Bullship…

by Jim Sinclair

I’m sorry, what…?!? Welcome to Bullship, America’s Premier Sailing Event (says the banner at registration). You might be thinking that it sounds similar to ELYC’s June regatta, probably Scotland’s premier sailing event. I can confirm that both events definitely involve boats and that any similarity ends there…

Let me explain. The boats in question are El Toro class dinghies, the kind of thing you’d get if an Optimist was bitten by a radioactive spider and sprouted a carbon fibre mast, a carbon boom and a high tech foam sandwich hull. It still looks like an 8 foot long kids boat designed in the 1930’s (because it is) but it now attracts a much more experienced following. As usual, this year’s event included former Olympians, national champions, sail makers and professional boat builders (and me). Ages ranged from under 10 years old up to 78 years young.

The race is hosted annually by Kane’ohe Yacht Club in Hawaii (there is also a younger sister Bullship race in San Francisco Bay). The course is very simple - start from your allocated start line inside the marina, sail around Coconut Island about a mile away across the bay (either direction - you choose whether to race clockwise or anti-clockwise) and back to the finish line inside the marina.

Allocated start line, I hear you ask? Yup, the race is handicapped based on weight. These are little boats and, in theory, should benefit from a lighter crew (generally the boats are sailed single handed but there are a few who double up each year). So if you weight under 150lbs (it’s America - that’s about 68kg, or 1.05 Jim Sinclairs), you start right next the clubhouse giving the heavy mob a big head start (and subjecting yourself to the torment of the shifty, gusty, patchy conditions inside the harbour). The next start line is 1/3 of the way out of the harbour and is for those up to 180lbs/82kg. At 2/3 distance up the dock, there’s the line for those in the up to 210lbs/95kg. And then, at the harbour mouth, you’ll find the line for those over 210lbs (the Panamax or Yokozuna class……). In case you’re trying to picture the chaos, I should add that this is generally a running start.

A historic aside which might appeal to ELYC members of a certain vintage; the weight handicapping was applied differently in the past. Only one start line was used but lighter sailors had to carry extra weight to even things up. The weights? Cans of beer, measured out in six-packs. Whether to leave the cans unopened during the arduous and thirsty journey was up to the sailor….

This year’s event - the 71st annual running of the Bulls - was held on Sunday 25 September in slightly lighter conditions than normal. There was no more than 10 or 12 knots at any point and there were big holes waiting to ruin your afternoon. Of course, it was still blazing sunshine and 32 degrees (another difference between KYC and ELYC). Across the Junior and Senior fleets, a total of 55 intrepid souls ventured forth.

Getting out of the dock was every bit as frustrating as usual with the gusts appearing to carry those on the outer starts away from us as we languished on a millpond. Most headed for the north channel, a bit like our fairway at North Berwick except that it threads through the tropical coral reefs….so nothing like North Berwick, really. This leads to the anti-clockwise course which tends to be the popular choice. Half a dozen boats headed out through the south channel, a bit like our fairway…etc… which leads to the clockwise rounding. Clockwise always looks like it should work and almost never does, hence it’s lack of popular support.

The broad reach out to the island was glorious and also very kind to your author. By sailing a straight line (often considered to be the shortest distance between two points), I was able to cruise past many of the boats who had opted for the ever-popular “let’s keep luffing each other until we’re all completely stuffed” strategy. More places were gained by sailing a bold (stupid) line over the reef behind the island, trusting the high tide to be higher than the short foils on an El Toro. Things were starting to look promising. Another place was gained when a good friend opted to lasso one of the poles that mark the reefs with the laser-style mainsheet of his boat. Admirably, he continued to look focused and determined as boats streamed past until he realised he was anchored at the stern…

Us anti-clockwisers met the clockwisers at a point that suggested it was going to be a very close finish. It might well have been but I can’t say for sure - I had fallen too far behind to opine on the matter! However good the outbound leg had been, the return leg was bad. I’d like to blame this situation on a series of external factors but that would be untrue. Operator error appeared to be the cause. I was not in high spirits as I approached the harbour, a place of great pain as the fitful breeze amongst the piers and moorings toys with the brave sailors fraying nerves. Thankfully, the sailing gods decided that they had already layered enough humiliation on me for one day and allowed me serene passage up the dock to the finish line. I even managed to pick up a couple of places from those less fortunate than myself. I feel sure that they saw the funny side of this.

I ended up third in my class, continuing a long run of second and third places, completely unbroken by any first places. I like to tell people that this is by choice because it would be rude to steal victory away from the local members….

Onwards to the prize giving which always adopts a Mexican theme (probably the only reason Donald Trump never competes). Sombreros and tacos (again, just like North Berwick). A ceremonial shovel (because, obviously). Glassware and some wonderful old trophies (photographic evidence presented). First overall, Class winners, First Wahine (Hawaiian for girl), Junior winners, Half Fast (whoever finishes exactly half way down the fleet), Most Huli’s (Hawaiian for capsizes), Tail End Charlie (self explanatory) etc. The first time I competed, they added a prize for furthest travelled competitor. I felt a moment of pity as the chap who’d flown in from Seattle sat back down, realising his short hop wasn’t going to win anything.

It’s a unique event. It’s great fun. It’s a little bit bonkers. If you get the chance, do it!

Toro, Toro, TORO!!!

(as they frequently say)

Full picture album

Streaker Nationals 2022

Bruce — Sat, 01 Oct 2022 16:12:38 GMT

Well done to former ELYC member, Michael Alexander, on winning the Silver Fleet as the Streaker Nationals and claiming 8th place overall.

https://www.yachtsandyachting.com/news/254436/Noble-Marine-Streaker-Nationals-at-South-Shields

ELYC Members at Tummel

Bruce — Sat, 24 Sep 2022 08:16:00 GMT

ELYC Members at Tummel

by Colin Ferrier

Congratulations to Rory Ferrier who won the Scottish Inland ILCA 6 Trophy on the weekend of 17/09.

He attended both qualifying events for the Scottish Inland Trophy (Loch Lomond and Loch Tummel). Rory won at Loch Tummel beating a great fleet in some very challenging conditions with gusts of up to 30knots. There were several retirals but Rory stayed the course and finished in first place. Alistair MacKinnon put in a great series and got 5^th and Scott Logan from ELYC got a 6^th as he retired from the windy conditions on Saturday.

Last weekend there was the second Inland Trophy event at Loch Tummel SC where Rory came second to ELYC’s former member, Jon Gay (currently of Lochaber SC). Some of the best racing I have seen in a long time. There was nothing in it after day 1 with equal wins under both their belts. On day 2, winds were very fickle and Jon started to take the lead. The penultimate race was amazing to watch – Jon at one point was 20 boat lengths ahead, Rory caught up on the downwind leg, As they rounded the mark with Rory just in front, they tacked off both on different tacks with Rory slightly ahead when they approached each other on converging tacks. They approached the line and within 3 boat lengths, Rory sailed into a windless patch and Jon grabbed not only that race but the win for the weekend. Great to watch and both came off the water smiling and shaking hands on a great weekend of extremely close racing.

Rory won the Scottish Inland Trophy for the ILCA 6 with Jon winning the Loch Tummel event.

Jimmy on the Podium

Bruce — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 07:31:06 GMT

Huge congratulations to Jimmy Sandison, who in the final race of the Phantom Nationals at Lyme Regis Sailing Club, grabbed a 3rd place finish! This meant that Jimmy finished 31st overall in a fleet of almost 70 boats.

Well done. Jimmy!

You can view the results here

Tales from the 400s - Vol.1

Bruce — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 07:39:23 GMT

You can't park that there, son!

A recounting of a perfectly considered decision.

By Bruce Millar

Dinghy Racing is a game of decisions. Making the correct ones not only help you go faster round the track, they generally help keep you out of trouble, too.

Doug and I decided, very last minute, to sail Doug’s RS400 in the Nationals. Too good an opportunity to miss such an event at your home club. Knowing before the first race had even begun that we wouldn't be able to compete in all 5 days, we decided the priority was to have a laugh, stay out of trouble and just see if we could improve as the week wore on. All good decisions! Not only did we have a laugh, I think we provided a few too. Bonus points!

Compared to club racing, the decisions in a big(ish) fleet come thick and fast. But it was our final decision in our maiden race of the RS400 Nationals which stood out way more than any other we made over the course of the week. I'm sure the committee boat would agree.

It all revolved around how best to handle the short sprint from the leeward gate to the finish line. A simple question. Kite up, or kite down?

Like all boats, 400's are easier to gybe in a breeze if you are carrying as much speed as possible. +1 for the kite up option. However, the unknown variable was the sailing angle to the finish line. We knew it would be tight. But how tight? Assuming we complete a nice gybe, would it be too tight to fly the kite across the line? Was there enough time to quickly drop the kite after the gybe, if needs must?

If you have the misfortune to find yourself behind other boats during a race, something I have immeasurable experience of, there is one small consolation. It's always wise to try and observe, if there is time, what other boats do in certain situations and how they fare as a result. As we roared down a gust (that's what 400's do, they roar) on our approach to said gate, we watched two boats handle the conundrum just ahead of us. One dropped their kite for that final sprint, the other looked to roll the dice and kept theirs up. Both survived and finished. Evidence, inconclusive.

Right, our turn. We executed a decent gybe with the kite up, right beside the port leeward mark and carried good pace. So far, so good. However, it became apparent, very quickly, that the angles were not in our favour. Perhaps of more significance, nor was the gust we were still riding.

As soon as we pointed the boat anywhere near the finish line side of the committee boat, the kite became rather upset and started to flog. The result, a dramatic drop in boat speed, a huge load through the mainsail and a heeling angle which was enough to send Doug sliding down the boat. I made an attempt to remain perched on the side deck, trying to ascertain if the rudder was still in enough water to be of any use, whilst almost accepting an imminent capsize, or worse. At this point I probably resembled a conductor who had lost his brass band, but kept waving regardless.

As the boat began to approach the point of no return, from my vantage point I recall being able to peer along the sightline of the mast, like a reticule on a sniper rifle. There was no enemy down these sights though. Arguably something much more intimidating. A stern-looking Bill Roberts, arms crossed in typical cool-but-mildly-concerned fashion. Frown in full effect, just waiting to see what was about to unfold. I swear I saw him reach for a fender. Robbie also seemed to be adopting his best mast-catching position.

It was at this point that I felt we had a better chance of hitting the committee boat, three sheets flogging and at a jaunty angle, than we did of crossing the finish cleanly and in one piece. As it tends to do in these situations, time slowed down. Options were few. The committee boat grew bigger in my Selden Spars reticule, the inquisitive looks on the faces of the race committee now very easy to study. Our flogging sails were doing their very best to drag us to the one mark of the course you absolutely cannot hit. In motoring terms, it felt like we had run out of opposite lock.

I contemplated reaching for a pen and paper, as it seemed sensible to begin filling out an application for Dalgety Bay Sailing Club (would they have me after this?). It was very apparent

I wouldn't be able to show my face at ELYC again if, as a home RS400 during a National Championship, we managed to actually mount the committee boat.

Doug however, had not given up hope of rescuing the situation. An un-cleating of the jib and a return to the windward side of the boat didn't quite rectify all of our troubles, but was enough to give us enough forward momentum in a more desirable direction, to drag us across the line and more importantly, removing the need for the committee boat to deploy the roaming fenders.

We managed to regain full control. Doug dropped the kite while I turned to the committee boat and gave the internationally recognised gesture for "thank ****", a wiping of the brow from one side to the other, followed by a perspiration-removing flick.

Committee boat owner David Robertson was seen engaging in a rapturous round of applause in response. As if the rollover jackpot had been won. His pride and joy had been saved and he was able to return the insurance schedule below deck.

Upon reaching the ELYC Bar, PRO Robbie Lawson tapped me on the shoulder to congratulate us on such a stylish finish to our first race of the Championships. He remarked that not only could those onboard the committee boat "smell the fear" as we tried to save the situation, they also "laughed their socks off". Ok, "socks" wasn't the word Robbie used, but it's close enough.

Robbie also informed me that they wanted crews to have something to think about when going for the finish line. A last will and testament, i'm betting, wasn't quite what he wanted crew's to be thing about, but mission accomplished Robbie.

Decisions, decisions.

Alastair & Roo Head to the Champs

Bruce — Fri, 08 Apr 2022 09:15:00 GMT

Good luck to Alastair and Roo who are heading to the RYA Youth National Championships in Pwllheli in Wales.

The results are used to select the British Youth Sailing Team to represent Great Britain at international regattas such as the Youth World Championships as well as the domestic youth squad for the year ahead.

You can track their progress here.

Lifeboat Pennant - 02/04/22

Bruce — Sun, 03 Apr 2022 09:31:46 GMT

Saturday April 2nd marked what many would consider to be the start of the 2022 season proper, with the Lifeboat Pennant up for grabs.

20+ boats took to the water for a great days sailing, with a light north easterly breeze, blue skies and beaming sunshine. Ideal for those looking to shake off any winter rust!

Derek Braid has kindly provided some pictures of the occasion!

Racing Pictures - 05/03/22

Bruce — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 10:34:51 GMT

Nick Roche has kindly provided us with some snaps of dinghy racing on 05/03/22. You can view them in this album.

Frostbite Series - Pictures

Bruce — Mon, 24 Jan 2022 13:23:51 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with some snaps of dinghy racing on 22/01/22. You can view them in this album.

RYA Scotland Winter Champs

Bruce — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 09:10:14 GMT

Well done to Alastair Mackinnon (4th Topper), Rory Ferrier (3rd ILCA) and Roo Purves (5th ILCA), who all recently made the journey to Largs Sailing Club for the RYA Scotland Winter Championships. Even when the colder weather hits, these guys are still out there getting better and better and better.....

Pictures

Results

Jon Shaw at the Phantom Nationals

Bruce — Fri, 08 Oct 2021 07:07:03 GMT

Well done to Jon Shaw, who scored a very impressive 25th in a 76 boat fleet at Stone Sailing Club.

https://www.yachtsandyachting.com/news/242139/Phantom-50th-Anniversary-Nationals-at-Stone

ELYC Cadets at RYAS Junior Champs

Bruce — Wed, 29 Sep 2021 13:57:53 GMT

Congratulations to Roo Purves and Alistair Mackinnon who finished 2nd and 13th respectively in the Topper Class at the RYA Scotland Junior Champs at Loch Tummel. You can find the full results here.

Great to see our Cadets and Junior sailors making a name for themselves on the circuit!

Keelboat Race Report

Bruce — Sun, 19 Sep 2021 11:49:25 GMT

With nerves a jangling 3 of ELYCs finest yachts took to the race course, around marks A, B and the Poo buoy. The Poo buoy was chosen as mark T was removed by Mr Hill, never happened to Sir Ben in the America Cup. Despite having a dodgy start kinsman held the early lead but was quickly overtaken by that solo around the Craig sailor,
Martin.

Having decided that a wee infringement of the rules had taken place at the start, Kinsman very sportingly did a 720 , or as close to that as possible as nobody on board could count that high.

By this time Westaway was going out of sight closely followed by Mischief ably helmed by Mike Willis and crewed by another Mike. Rounding the outer limit team Kinsman decided to tack off shore as the navigator had waved his wet seaweed and decided that that was the way to go.

Meanwhile Westaway and Mischief got further away on a port inshore tack .
Team Kinsman felt that they would catch them all at the Poo buoy. However due to some slight navigational errors ( must spin the compass or maybe the plates) they rounded the Poo buoy last ( sorry misprint should have said in 3 place).

Unfortunately by this time Westaway was just a speck in the distance and with spinnaker flying was bearing down on the finish line. However, Team Kinsman were not out of it and decided that the kite had to go up, Rigg was like a ballet dancer on the foredeck , excluding tutu, whilst 1st reserve waiter Mr Lundy undid all the knots that seem to happen with all the ropes( sheets, halyards etc. To those nautical types amongst you).

Meanwhile , sportingly , Mischief decided to slow themselves down and this allowed Kinsman under full sail to pass them and finish a respectfully 2nd place. The sight of Kinsman under full sail brought a tear to many an old salt including the helm Mr Hughes.

If you would like to hear more of Team Kinsman's exploits please subscribe via our web site, or by cheque ,for limited time special offers .

Mike Rigg
First mate

ELYC at Loch Lommond

Bruce — Mon, 06 Sep 2021 08:41:20 GMT

ELYC were well represented at the Loch Lomond Sailing Club open dinghy regatta on the weekend of 4th/5th September.

Roo in his 29er, Brendan & Ellen in their RS200, John & Laura in their RS200, Robbie & Nick in their Lasers and Scott in his Radial, all took to the Loch.

Full Results

Closed & Cadet Regattas

Bruce — Sun, 29 Aug 2021 14:35:45 GMT

The 28th August saw the club host its annual closed & cadet regattas. With a total of 35 boats competing across two fleets, sailors of all ages took to the course in what proved to be a great days racing. Huge thanks to those who helped organise and run the event. Click for pictures of some of the more youthful prize winners.

Cadet Regatta Results
Closed Regatta Results

We're On The Road Again

Bruce — Wed, 18 Aug 2021 15:22:20 GMT

Whilst we are having a great time hosting the Merlin Rocket UK Nationals, we mustn't forget that some of our intrepid members are trailing their boats up, down, left and right for their own classes National Champs.

Roo & Oliver recently headed to the south coast for the 29er Youth Nationals at Mount Batten.

John & Laura plus Brendan & Ellen are currently competing in the RS200 UK Nationals at Exe Sailing Club.

Rory has just placed 1st in silver fleet of the ILCA 6 UK Nationals at WPNSC.

Robbie Lawson is about to line up at the RS Aero UK Nationals at HISC.

Jim Sinclair recently made his way to Staunton Harold Sailing Club for the Streaker Nationals which succumbed to 3 days of zero wind and glass-like conditions. Thankfully though, Staunton Harold Sailing Club have rescheduled the event for the 2nd and 3rd October.

Well done to all so far and continued good luck to those still competing!

ELYC featured on Y&Y

Bruce — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 09:04:12 GMT

With the Merlins fast approaching, Yachts & Yachting have a great article which gives a preview of the event we are about to host.

https://www.yachtsandyachting.com/news/240551/Aspire-Merlin-Nationals-runners-and-riders

Burgh Trophy - Pictures

Bruce — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 08:39:15 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided some great shots of the coveted Burgh Trophy race which was held on Saturday 24th July.

Congratulations to Bill & Grace Roberts who took the honours!

Well done, Roo & Oliver

Bruce — Wed, 16 Jun 2021 17:33:57 GMT

Congratulations to Roo Purves and Oliver Bull who won the 29er class at the recent one-design Regatta at Largs. You can view a full event report here.

ELYC Regatta Keelboat Report

Bruce — Sun, 13 Jun 2021 09:55:36 GMT

ELYC Keelboat Regatta Report

Hamish Thomson won the keelboat class in his Medina 'Red Herring' and commented:

"Wow what a beautiful day to sail! Thanks so much to all the peeps on rescue boats, race committees and huts that made this day possible! Oh and a special thanks to the lobster pots!"

A fine day out; Maiden Voyage of the Kinsman.

A Classic Race report from a couple of classics, best read in your Peter Sallis - Last of the Summer Wine - voice.

Maiden voyage of the Kinsman having sailed superbly in the boat park for the last two weeks during intensive training which included removal of thermos flask top. Nerves jangling as neither Gerry Hughes nor Mike Rigg had put a big toe in the sea for years, but as was shown these old salts have still go it, not sure what but they got something.

1st race, on the way to the start line skipper says wind the keel down, err won’t go down . Tried persuasion with an anchor , still would not go down. Back to harbour for a sledge hammer, still won’t go down . Ah maybe we screwed those extra cleats on with through the keel box. Cleats off sorted, missed 1st race.

2nd race 2nd last round windward mark, but by the time we rounded the Craig we were into 2nd place, The helming if Hughes was brilliant only surpassed by the superb spinnaker launching and handling by agile Rigg who once had disposed of his Zimmer frame was lightning quick.

Finished a comfortable 2nd over the line but should win on handicap, assisted by Sandison yacht who kept trying to steal lobsters from the creels.

3rd Race

Poor start and it was follow my leader despite walking it round the end of the Craig cutting the corner., by Hughes.

Verdict

More fine tuning plus heavier sledge hammer needed. Plus the boys need an extra pair of hands to serve tea and coffee and to wind in the jib.

Due to exhaustion and an early night Hughes and Rigg couldn’t make prize giving to pick up the over 150 years combined age cup, which Rigg was so looking forward to as the Commodore’s wife had promised him a cuddle.

Always next year.

Mike Rigg.

ELYC Regatta Dinghy Report

Bruce — Sun, 13 Jun 2021 09:45:44 GMT

East Lothian Yacht Club 2021 Regatta Report

East Lothian Yacht Club held their annual regatta 5-6th June 2021. A little different to previous years to meet Covid.

restrictions but volunteers and sailors were delighted the event could go ahead.

The regatta was split into two one-day events with Yachts, Streakers, ILCAs and Aeros on the Saturday, Skiffs and

RS200s on the Sunday, which allowed club sailors to sail one day and volunteer the other.

Lots of hard work, planning and training paid off to deliver 8 high quality races over two days, with ELYC winning 4 out of the 7 classes. Our new race officers got to hone their new skills, our mark team dusted off the rust and delivered pin sharp courses to the degree.

Saturday Race Officer Fiona Rigg kept a cool head in shifting conditions assisted by husband Paul with Bill and Grace Roberts in the race box.

Ffinlo Wright made the journey from Isle of Man to sail the Aero 9 and won the Aero fleet handicap:

"As always ELYC put on a fantastic event, it was a pleasure to sail with you. Many thanks to the race team and the café crew - it wouldn't have been so fantastic without them"

Local sailor Angus Boyd was chasing Ffinlo:

"The light wind for the second race favoured the 9's, all of which disappeared into the distance. The stronger breeze for the last races helped the 7's, although nothing slowed Ffinlo down Peter Craggs and myself in the 7 rigs and had some close racing, trading places quite a few times. A good day, the wind changes weren't that disruptive, arguably helped to give everyone something that suited."

In the Streaker fleet, Jim Sinclair won the class and shared some local knowledge:

"If this is your first visit to North Berwick, it’s always like this here. Always. If you’re wondering, the sea breeze always arrives at 1pm. Not 1.01pm, not 12.59pm. 1pm. If you’re sailing a Radial, it’s the tide!!!! Don’t sail the great circle down the reaches. If you’re the race officer, have a glass of champagne. That was perfect."

Iain McNeil was sailing his Streaker in his first regatta at the age of ...ahem, ahem....: "The crisp visibility was matched only by the crisp race management. The light winds picking up through the afternoon were a delight. Identifying lay lines was ‘interesting', with the wind both against and with the tide."

Local ILCA 6 sailor (speedy) Scott Logan won the class and taught up and coming youngsters a lesson while he still can:

"In Race 1, Scott Logan made the most of a good start to lead at the top mark followed Rory Ferrier. With a close race taking place for second place, Scott extended his advantage with Rory taking second and Maisie Russell third.

Rory Ferrier took an early lead in Race 2 and made the most of the tricky conditions to take the race, followed by Scott Logan and Suzie Homer.

The tide pushed a number of boats over the line at the start of Race 3, including Rory Ferrier. Scott Logan took his second win, with Rory working his way back through the fleet to take second from Suzie Homer in third.

Suzie Homer started well in Race 4 and lead at the top mark closely followed by Scott Logan and Rory Ferrier.

With the tussle for second place behind her, Suzie stretched out a good lead on the run with Oscar Morris moving in to second place. Suzie continued to extend her lead for a comfortable win ahead of Scott Logan and Oscar Morris.

Sunday delivers perfect 15-18kts consistent westerly. Robbie Lawson took over the reigns as Race Officer with speedy Scott as assistant. Robbie shared his views from the committee boat:

"The wind Gods smiled upon us today. We had champagne sailing in glorious sunshine with 15 knots from the west. The gannets put on a freezing frenzy for our entertainment and our local pod of dolphins appeared to show us that they are even faster upwind than a Musto Skiff!

The sailors well well behaved. Only one individual recall all day. I am sure Mr Rigg feels able to blame the race officer for that one with a tad too much port bias.

Incredibly slick work from the Mark layers allowed us to adjust the course as the wind swing right, giving a great course that tested all the sailors.

The smiles from increasingly knackered sailors as they crossed the line told us that everyone’s efforts were very much appreciated. A great step towards normality at ELYC."

Jamie Hilton took the win in the Musto Skiffs, full Musto Skiff report here:

"A really great weekend and the weather/wind definitely helped. Well organised - huge thanks on behalf of the fleet; and especially so for allowing a few of to arrive a day early keeping out of the way of the official goings-on.

The guys in the Musto fleet really enjoyed the racing, the venue and the hospitality; and will be looking forward to a return."

In the RS200s, local heros and Scottish Champions Brendan Lynch and Ellen Clark took the win with three bullets.

The race committee awarded two endeavour prizes to Simon Cowan in the ILCA 7 for smiling all the way round the race course and to Iain Duncan & Catie Warbuton in the RS200 for their determination and attitude.

We are starting to feel like a yacht club again.

Nick Roche

East Lothian Yacht Club

More Regatta Pictures

Bruce — Sun, 06 Jun 2021 15:42:31 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided some great shots of the action on Sunday

More of Derek's images can be viewed on his website, here.

Regatta Pictures

Bruce — Sat, 05 Jun 2021 18:14:43 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided some great shots of both the dinghy and keelboat fleets during our Annual Regatta on Saturday.

More of Derek's images can be viewed on his website, here.

Midweek Racing - Pictures

Bruce — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 17:48:07 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly sent on some pictures of the midweek dinghy racing action on 26/05/21.

Looks at all those Lasers!

Dinghy Racing - Pictures

Bruce — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 18:38:19 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with some snaps of dinghy racing on 24/04/21. You can view them in this album.

Racing Pictures - 10/04/21

Bruce — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 07:51:09 GMT

Mat Ford has kindly sent on some pictures of our long-awaited return to racing action on 10/04/21.

Race Squad

Alison — Sun, 28 Mar 2021 08:49:09 GMT

28th March saw ELYC Race Squad have their first coaching session of 2021. Covid restrictions have sadly meant a bit of a gap since the last one, but the cadets thoroughly relished their time on the water together. The session was led by our very own Steve Fraser who kindly stepped in as the regular squad coaches were not yet able to travel to East Lothian. Amid windy conditions, the squad practiced starts and triangular courses. Roll on the next session!

Rory Shows Us How

Bruce — Sun, 15 Nov 2020 10:05:50 GMT

Those in and around the racing, and training scenes at ELYC will be very aware of some of the very talented young sailors currently lining up on our start lines. Rory Ferrier is one such sailor.

Rory has recently stepped into the Laser class and is showing a drive an determination which is an example to us all.

Having sailed his Laser just four times, Rory submitted an application to RYA Scotland's Performance Manager, Matt Toynbee and Laser class coach Iain McLaughlin, to be considered for two non-residential training camps to be held towards the end of November and early December. The selection criteria for the camps are as follows:

• Commitment to progressing along the pathway towards the British Sailing Team

• Potential to develop adaptive expertise and to excel in developing key skills

• Application of the British Youth Sailing Values and Behaviours

Rory had already impressed Iain McLaughlin at a recent RYA Academy session at Dalgety Bay, having given some older and more established Laser youth sailors a real run for their money.

So much so that Iain and Matt penned a lovely email to Rory, inviting him to the first camp at Port Edgar this weekend (14/15th November). To be one of only five Laser sailors in Scotland to be invited to said camps, shows just how far Rory has come and how hard he has worked during his youth sailing career.

But wait.....there's more! Steve Cockerill from Rooster also learned of Rory's rise through the ranks and is not only sponsoring Rory, but has asked him to be an Ambassador for Rooster.

Steve was impressed with Rory's passion and humility and wanted to do something for Rory. Quoted as saying "WOW young Ferrier, your story brought back memories of my youth. You WILL go far!" What an achievement!

Rory's Dad, Colin, had this to say. "For Rory and me, our hearts lie off the coast of North Berwick, the opportunities for Rory’s development often lie elsewhere, so when he’s around in NB, he’ll be keen to come down to sail at the Club and do what he loves most, exchanging stories and fun with the members, young and old".

Hard work personified. Go get em', Rory. ELYC will be cheering you on.

Photos - Autumn 3

Bruce — Sun, 04 Oct 2020 12:11:29 GMT

Commodore Nick Roche has kindly forwarded on some pictures of Autumn 3's Saturday racing.

The brave souls who took to the water managed to get two races in before beating a hasty retreat due to a heavy squall and a building swell.

RS 200 - Scottish Championships

Bruce — Sat, 26 Sep 2020 09:25:41 GMT

Congratulations to Brendan & Ellen, Fi & Helen who finished 1st and 3rd respectively at the RS 200 Scottish Championships. Click for more.

Photos - Returning to Action

Bruce — Sat, 25 Jul 2020 18:24:39 GMT

Derek Braid, Nick Roche and Donald MacKinnon have provided us with some great photos of some of the action and activities of various club members, as we carefully and respectfully return to the water sports we love.

Enjoy!

The Lockdown Shakedown (Dinghies)

Bruce — Thu, 16 Jul 2020 08:10:29 GMT

Racing (for some) is back! The Lockdown Shakedown is on for this Saturday afternoon. If you have at least 2 seasons experience and participation in at least 10 sailing events in 2019 under your belt, register for one of the 3 racing flights departing this coming Saturday, via one of the following event links:

Flight 1 - 2pm start

Flight 2 - 2.20pm start

Flight 3 - 2.40pm start

There is a maximum of 5 boats per flight. Existing registrations should be visible on the event registration page for each flight to enable dinghy classes to self-organise. Club dinghy hire is not available at the present time so this is Own Boat only.

Please read and abide by the COVID-19 Operating Procedures, specifically:

Arrive ready to go afloat or be prepared to change outdoors. The dinghy park offers some sheltered spaces.

Stay in your allocated flight of five boats, do not interact with or join other flights on shore.

Allow flights ahead of you to launch before moving to the beach.

Do not use the harbour hose for wash down, fill a bucket before your launch and wash down in your dinghy space.

Race safe!

ELYC Regatta 2020 - Postponed

Bruce — Wed, 20 May 2020 14:44:23 GMT

The ELYC open regatta originally planned for 6-7 June is, of course, cancelled. If sailing resumes this year, we will re-schedule the open regatta for a weekend in September or October and we will issue a NoR when it is safe and sensible to do so.

Flying the flag, virtually!

Bruce — Tue, 19 May 2020 10:06:43 GMT

Great to see Rory and Roo doing superbly well at the first ever Virtual Eric Twinham Regatta, representing Scotland and of course ELYC!

The real event has obviously been postponed due to current restrictions, but not to be denied completely, preparations were made by British Youth Sailing and the Eric Twinham Trust to run the tournament online using Virtual Regatta. Roo and Rory competed in the Topper class and made their way through a fleet of 60 competitors to finish 3rd and 4th respectively!

You can read more about the event and results here.

Remember, you can take part in ELYC's Virtual Regatta events on Wednesday evenings at 7pm and Saturdays at 4pm.

Eric Twiname Regatta

Bruce — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 10:24:02 GMT

Great news for Rory and Roo who have both been selected to represent Scotland in the Topper class at the 34th annual Eric Twiname Regatta at Rutland Sailing Club in May (edit - fingers crossed for the boys that this event is quickly rescheduled).

Entry to this event is open only to members of an RYA Zone or Home Country Squad only. This highlights just how much effort Roo and Rory (and the supporting parents of course!) have put in over the winter to get to where there are now!

Roo - "I was so thrilled to be selected to represent Scotland in Toppers at the Eric Twiname Championships scheduled for May. This came after a lot of hard work over the winter. I have a lot to thank my RYA and ELYC coaches for. I know the event has had to be cancelled this year due to the virus, but I hope to be there next year. I’m thinking about it already! I am doing what I canto gain fitness and keep healthy and can't wait to be back out on the water. I’m also polishing my Topper to within an inch of it’s life."

Rory - “When I was selected to sail for Scotland racing at the Eric Twinhame event in May, my Mum and Dad broke out crying and I was beaming. I could not believe it. I was certainly not expecting it. I couldn't have done it without support from my family and friends and especially the club. I am so lucky that I go to a club that is open to all types of pathways from performance racing to just going for a joyride.

Photos Uploaded - 14/03/20

Bruce — Sun, 15 Mar 2020 10:20:33 GMT

Derek Braid his kindly forwarded on some great photos of the action from Early Bird 5 on 15/03/2020

PY Numbers - 2020

Bruce — Fri, 13 Mar 2020 09:43:48 GMT

The 2020 Porstmouth Yardstick numbers for Keelboats and Dinghies are now available in the document library.

Please note, you must be logged in to view the document library,

Early Bird 4 - Photos

Bruce — Mon, 09 Mar 2020 21:50:22 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with some great pictures of the action during Early Bird 4 when a number of brave souls took on some heavy gusts!

2020 - The Year of R & R?

Bruce — Sun, 05 Jan 2020 19:00:54 GMT

Congratulations to Rory Ferrier and Roo Purves, who kept cool heads in the opening races of 2020 to finish 1st and 2nd respectively in the Opening Muster & Ice Breaker Trophy!

Winter 6 - Photos!

Bruce — Sun, 08 Dec 2019 10:59:09 GMT

Bruce Millar has kindly provided us with a selection of photos from Winter 6!

Congratulations, Roo!

Bruce — Tue, 03 Dec 2019 18:08:22 GMT

Congratulations to Roo, who has been shortlisted for the RYA Scotland Class Academy Sailor of the Year Award. You can click here to read the full article!

Winter 5 - Photos

Bruce — Sun, 01 Dec 2019 15:00:07 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided us with some great photos from Winter 5!

2019 Prize Giving Photos

Bruce — Sun, 24 Nov 2019 19:57:21 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided a collection of photos taken at the 2019 Prize Giving. You can view them here.

Gold for Brendan & Crew!

Bruce — Tue, 15 Oct 2019 19:08:15 GMT

Congratulations to Brendan Lynch and crew, who took first place in the RS200 sprints!

The series, which took place at various Scottish clubs throughout the course of the season, including ELYC, concluded at Helensburgh at the weekend.

You can read all about it on the Yachts & Yachting site.

Crane-Out & Autumn 5

Bruce — Sun, 13 Oct 2019 13:16:25 GMT

Derek Braid has kindly provided some shots of the keelboat Crane-Out and Autumn 5 Dinghy racing.

Just click the links.

Roo takes Bronze!

Bruce — Mon, 23 Sep 2019 16:11:03 GMT

Huge congrats to our very own Roo Purves who finished an outstanding 3rd place in the Topper class at the recent RYA Scottish Youth and Junior Championships at Dalgety Bay!

Midweek Autumn 6 - 28/08/19

Bruce — Sun, 01 Sep 2019 07:31:12 GMT

Derek Braid was kind enough to provide some pictures from the exciting Midweek Autumn 6 races on the 28th August!

You can view them here.

Go Racing - The Last Blast!

Bruce — Wed, 28 Aug 2019 16:59:55 GMT

The 26th August marked the closing of a highly successful season of "Go Racing", which has been running throughout the summer on Monday evenings.

Designed to help both adults and children confidently participate in club racing activities, Go Racing is open to anyone who holds a minimum of RYA Level 2 / Stage 2 certificates or equivalent.

The Go Racing evenings are structured with an onshore briefing, multiple short handicap races followed by an onshore de-brief. Over the course of the season the team, led by Iain McGonigal, cover a wide range of sailing and racing areas to help you gain confidence around the race course. The team is made up of club volunteers who are themselves, active and experienced club racers.

This season saw a well attended Spring series which consisted of 17 races and 28 competitors. Hot on its heels was the Go Racing Summer series, which brought us 9 exciting races with an incredible 42 competitors!

The final races on the 26th August were dubbed "The Last Blast" where it was all to play for between Rory Ferrier, Roo Purves and Fraser Davidson for top spot. With an amazing 24 boats arriving at the start line it was obvious that this group of keen racers were determined to make the most of the last two Monday evening races this years series had to offer.

Rory Ferrier did just enough to fend off Roo Purves to add to his Spring Series success earlier in the year, with just 3 points separating the pair after all races were run.

Its not all about being the quickest though, with a variety of achievements being rewarded with spot prizes during the series.

You can view pictures of the Last Blast and the prize giving which followed in this album. You can also view the final results here.

Well done to all who participated in Go Racing this year! We cant wait to see you all out at the start line for Saturday racing!

A huge thank you to all the club members who helped make Go Racing this season a huge success.

Best Laser - Max Barbour

Most Improved Sailor - Struan Ferrier

Best Wolf (not a sheep) - Mel Richardson

Never Gives Up - Alastair McKinnon

Fastest Recovery - Jamie Cowan

Closed Regatta 2019

Bruce — Mon, 26 Aug 2019 06:57:43 GMT

Many thanks to everyone involved in running a very enjoyable Closed Regatta at the weekend.

To Paul and Fi for putting together a great format, about which I heard many a positive comment in the bar.

To the teams on the rescue boats who gave up their days to lay courses and provide safety cover.

To the social team, bar tenders and BBQ providers who helped quench thirst and silence rumbling tums after the racing.

More importantly though, it was great to see so many boats, new and regular, on the start line.

You can discuss this topic on the club forums.

Well done, Iain!

Bruce — Sun, 25 Aug 2019 16:59:50 GMT

Very well done to Iain McGonigal who finished a superb 16th at the RS Aero European Championships at Malcesine, Garda, Italy.

In an event which featured an incredibly strong lineup, Iain took to the water in his Aero 7 in a 63 boat fleet and scored consistently well throughout the week. The highlight being an amazing 3rd place in race 3! This was enough to also see Iain claim 2nd Master overall.

Well done Iain. You've done us proud again!

Fisherrow Yacht Club Regatta

Bruce — Tue, 20 Aug 2019 11:54:02 GMT

Fisherrow Yacht Club are holding their annual Yacht & Dinghy Regatta on the weekend of 31st August.

The yacht Regatta will be held on the Saturday while the dinghies will race on the Sunday.

Further details can be found here.

RS Aero UK Nationals - Pictures

Bruce — Wed, 24 Jul 2019 20:30:45 GMT

Derek Braid has been busy on the water providing us with some great shots of the action from the RS Aero UK Nationals.

Take a look!

Photos - Summer 3

Bruce — Mon, 08 Jul 2019 19:32:32 GMT

John Wilson kindly forwarded some great photos taken during Summer 3 racing on Saturday, 6th July.

You can view them here!

Photos - Midweek Summer 6

Bruce — Sun, 07 Jul 2019 06:43:36 GMT

Derek Braid was kind enough to provide some pictures from the exciting Midweek Summer 6 races!

You can view them here.

Yachts & Yachting Regatta Report

Bruce — Tue, 04 Jun 2019 18:07:59 GMT

Yachts & Yachting magazine have published our Regatta report! You can view it here.

June 18th - RC Yachts (updated)

Bruce — Mon, 27 May 2019 16:56:35 GMT

Please note that due to weather forecast, the session planned originally for 4th June has been moved to 18th June. Same time, same place.

On June 18th from 7pm-9pm there will be a gathering of RC yachties sailing their DragonForce 65's at the North Berwick boating pond. You can head down on the evening for a shot, or simply watch the action. You can learn more about class by clicking the link below.

https://www.sailingworld.com/inside-classes-dragonforce-65

Go Racing 1 - 06/05/19

Bruce — Tue, 07 May 2019 16:49:52 GMT

Derek Braid was kind enough to provide some pictures from the Go Racing dinghy races!

You can view them here.

Spring 2 - 20/04/19

Bruce — Sun, 21 Apr 2019 08:18:59 GMT

Derek Braid was kind enough to provide some pictures from the Spring 2 dinghy and keelboat races!

You can view them here.

Early Bird 2 - 23/02/19

Bruce — Mon, 25 Feb 2019 12:30:54 GMT

Derek Braid was kind enough to provide some pictures from the Early Bird 2 races!

You can view them here.

Early Bird 1 - 16/02/19

Bruce — Sun, 17 Feb 2019 08:32:33 GMT

Derek Braid was kind enough to provide some pictures from the first Early Bird races of the season!

You can view them here.

A Sticky Situation

Bruce — Sat, 02 Feb 2019 15:52:30 GMT

Brian Cameron and John Hookway have kindly taken the time to describe a voyage they undertook aboard Brian's catamaran, "Sticky Paws" back in 2006.

Captain's Report

Vessel: "Sticky Paws", 47 ft ferrel catamaran, MGFV9

Owner and skipper: Brian Cameron ELYC

Crew: John Band DSC, Angus MacDonald DSC, John Hookway ELYC

Voyage: Part of a voyage from Lagos Portugal to Inverkip Scotland. Left La Caruna(ESP) at 1300UT 4 Dec 2006 intention Brest(FR) distance 390nm Forecast: 35 kts WSW

Boat speed was maintained around 8-10 kts with a following sea and 3 reefs in Main and 30% genoa. The wind built after 12 hours to full gale with maintained wind speeds of over 40 kts and gusts of over 60. Sea state was very rough and boat speed on occasions was over 20 kts down waves. These conditions were maintained for 20 hours. At 0530 UT the fore stay broke loose from the fore deck. The sail, fore stay and reefing drum, flew out to starboard immediately breaking the reefing line and allowing the whole sail to spin out. The sheets were flayling and shredding and the mast was panting and back stays shaking violently.

4 Horns brought the off watch crew quickly on watch.

Skipper assessed the situation as serious and quickly put out a PAN PAN to the rescue services. The rescue services immediately diverted a vessel to our waypoint assessed our drift and launched two lifeboats together with an ocean tug. John Hookway and later Brian Cameron went forward on deck, Angus a fluent French speaker maintained contact with services. John Band maintained a steady course hand steering dead down wind. The boom was dropped on the bimini and the mainsail dropped and made secure. Meanwhile John and Brian were trying to secure the reefing drum which was moving from starboard to port like a huge wrecking pendulum taking lumps out of the deck and anything in its way. The drum was eventually lassood and made fast on the fore deck. By now the foresail and sheets were in shreds. The spinny and spare halyard were brought forward and secured.

Brian and John on the fore deck, attempting to secure the forestay

Meanwhile the ocean tug had arrived (about 2 h after PAN PAN) and the diverted vessel stood down.The shredded sails were tied up as much as possible and shortly afterwards the first lifeboat arrived. We were now in fair shape and the engines were engaged. We were also delighted to see a helicopter flying overhead. This was not a rescue helicopter but Euronews who were taking live footage of the 'rescue' and also some stills which you see in the following pages and Angus was providing live French commentary!

The ocean tug stood down and we were escorted by lifeboat 1 who met lifeboat 2 on route to Cameret sur Mer . LB1 went East and we followed LB 2 to the dock. We were safely tied up at 1300.

Draft Calendar 2019

Bruce — Tue, 08 Jan 2019 12:00:29 GMT

A draft version of the 2019 calendar has been made available here. This is for discussion during the Race Forum on Friday 11th January @ 1900 in the club bar.

Pictures Uploaded - Icebreaker 05-01-19

Bruce — Mon, 07 Jan 2019 12:38:19 GMT

Pictures from the Icebreaker on 05-01-19 have been uploaded to this album.

Pictures by Derek Braid.

ELYC Prize Giving - 2018

Bruce — Sun, 28 Oct 2018 09:35:03 GMT

Congratulations to Angus Boyd, Bill & Grace Roberts, Sandy Brodie, Alastair Skinner, Alastair Macintyre, Jim Sinclair, John Shaw, Robbie Lawson, Ben Wilcox, Iain McGonigal, John Hookway, Mike Willis, Rory Ferrier and Callum Williams for their racing exploits and resulting victories this season.

Extra special congratulations go to Rory and Callum who have both achieved a great deal this season, not just a haul of silverware! Its great to see the various generations an the club all claiming their prizes.

We look forward to seeing you at the Birthday Bash on the 3rd November!

Anyone seen the results?

Bruce — Mon, 22 Oct 2018 18:27:38 GMT

Thanks for all the effort, Mike.

Champion of Champions - Photos

Bruce — Wed, 17 Oct 2018 20:54:56 GMT

Photos from the RYA Champion of Champions event held at ELYC on 13-14/10/2018 have been added to the this album for your enjoyment.

FYCA Handicap Committee

Bruce — Mon, 15 Oct 2018 17:09:49 GMT

Message from Phil Walter (FYCA) via ELYC Race Secretary

As you are well aware the FYCA Handicap Committee is responsible for the management of the racing handicaps used on the Forth.

After serving 10 years on the committee, 7 as chairman, I am looking to stand down at this year's AGM. Therefore I am asking if there are any volunteers willing to take on the role.

This would suite someone who is interested in racing on the Forth and how the handicaps are managed. The main roles of the chairman are to track the handicap applications, liaise with the sailing secretaries, to call the committee meetings and obviously to chair them. The handicap chairman is also a member of the FYCA management committee, by attending these meetings you'll see the broad range of topics covered by the FYCA. Understanding how the handicap system works is useful but not essential. The current committee members have all agreed to serve another year and are more than able to handle the technical side of setting and reviewing the handicaps. Whoever takes on the role will be well supported in this aspect.

As it happens the current committee is made up of boat owners/skippers but that is not a requirement. Neither do handicap committee members have to be officers of the club they represent.

If anyone is interested or would like to know more then please get in touch (via racing@elyc.org.uk)

Phil Walter

Chairman - FYCA Handicap Committee

Olympic Cup

Bruce — Mon, 01 Oct 2018 08:04:44 GMT

Please note that the Olympic Cup, originally scheduled to take place on 13/10/18, has now been moved to 20/10/18.

As a result, Dinghy Autumn 5 has now been moved to 13/10/18.

Photos of Autumn 2 Dinghies, Autumn 3 Keelboats

Bruce — Mon, 24 Sep 2018 11:38:58 GMT

Photos of Autumn 2 Dinghies, Autumn 3 Keelboats on 22 September 2018 have been added to web site. (Photos by Derek Braid)

ELYC Retain the Elie & Earlsferry Passage Race Trophy

Bruce — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 09:02:29 GMT

The annual Elie & Earlsferry Passage Race took place on 02/09/2018.

This race involves keelboat fleets from East Lothian Yacht Club Elie and Earlsferry Sailing Club starting from their respective start lines, racing across the Forth to the "oppositions" club house, enjoying some hospitality, then racing back home again.

This reporter has never taken part in this event but always imagined water balloon broadsides as the fleets passed each other in the middle of the river. I very much doubt this is the case.

Fastest crossing on handicap is awarded to an Elie boat 'Monopoly' who achieved the return crossing from NB to Elie in 1:25:54 and a corrected time of 1:19:37. Our fastest crossing on corrected time was Dream Weaver also on 2nd leg.

3 Elie boats completed the 2nd leg in under an hour and a half.

ELYC won the event overall!

By all accounts a great day and thanks to Eric & Jane Robertson and Ian Kirkpatrick for managing the event.

A selection of Photos have been uploaded for your enjoyment!

Iain McGonigal - RS Aero Northern Championship Report

Bruce — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 11:33:37 GMT

By Iain McGonigal

Nineteen sailors signed up for the Northern Championships at East Lothian Yacht Club in the seaside town of North Berwick. Six local sailors were joined by visitors from clubs as far apart as the Isle of Man, Warrington, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and Aberdeen. Several arrived Friday and sampled the delights of the Puffin and the Herringbone in North Berwick, keeping up the traditional Northern race preparation!

The East Lothian coast was at its most benign for on Saturday morning, with a light to moderate westerly breeze and a relatively gentle swell. Race Officer Bill Roberts set a trapezoid course between the islands of the Bass and the Craig, to the east of the sailing club. With many Northern Circuit regulars chasing a good score for the traveler series championship, plus a few less weel-kent faces hoping to make their mark, it was all to play for. Most opted for the 7 rig, however local sailors Robbie Lawson and Donald Maclean opted for Aero 9 rigs, and young Ellen Clark, sailing an aero competitively for the first time, opted for a 5.

Robbie Lawson took line honours in all three races on the Saturday, scoring 2, 3, 3 on handicap. In the 7 fleet, racing was close in the first two races beteen Angus Boyd of ELYC and Gareth Williams of Leigh and Lowton Sailing Club, both showing upwind speed everyone else struggled to match.They scored one win each. A few were caught out by the significant tidal flow at the windward mark. By race 3 the wind had picked up a little and Iain McGonigal (ELYC), having been DNF’d for failing to go through the gate in race 2, got a clean start and led all the way. Angus Boyd again showed his consistency to take second and finish the day on top of the series.

After three hard series races, ELYC laid on an extra treat for the tired sailors; an optional one-off race around a couple of the local islands.A beat of over 2 miles westwards to the Lamb, against the tide in a building breeze, saw the local sailors heading inshore from the start to rockhop their way up the coast.Visitors less familiar with the shoreline followed tentatively. Iain McGonigal and John Wilcox, (ELYC) ducked and weaved all the way up, with Iain just reaching the Lamb first. The island was rounded to starboard a with a turn downwind to leave the Craig to starboard. The downwind leg in a good 15-20kts with bigger waves caught a few out, as did the rounding of the Craig which involved crossing through the wind shadow of the island cliffs. A capsize behind the Craig put paid to John’s chance of catching Iain but he recovered well and still finished second. First visiting sailor was Steve Stewart (Yorkshire Dales SC). As it turned out this was a race that only a local should win, so fair play to all the visitors who got round!

Saturday nights on the Northern circuit are legendary, however this was a subdued affair. After a free drink provided by NB Gin and an excellent meal provided by Andreas and Karen in the ELYC Sail Loft Cafe, including FREE PUDDING! of course (thanks to Steve at the Airshed), everyone retired to the bar where exhaustion set in. This resulted in the earliest Saturday night in the history of the Northern circuit.

Sunday dawned windy as forecast, with wind against tide generating some big wave sets.A few decided that discretion was the better part of valour and opted not to go out, and a few more opted for a 5 rig. Out on the race course the wind was well into the 20-30kt range, with gusts of 31kts recorded at the club weather station on the shore. Chris Perry (Aberdeen and Stonehaven YC) and Peter Craggs (York RI) mastered the conditions first and shared the first two races. The remaining positions were decided mainly by who capsised the fewest number of times! The wind continued to strengthen and in race three Robbie Lawson took the line honours again, but in a 5 rig! However as he was sailing under his 9 rig handicap he only managed second! Iain McGonigal (ELYC) in the 7 rig managed to get round the 3 laps with the mast pointing at the sky and took the win.

Angus Boyd (ELYC) continued to sail consistently and did enough on day 2 to maintain his first-day lead and take the series overall, with Iain McGonigal only 1 point behind and Peter Craggs (York RI) coming through to 3^rd overall.

A great weekend’s sailing, with the closeness of the racing and 5 different race winners testament to the growing quality of the Aero fleet, among both circuit regulars and those we don’t see around so often.

ELYC put on a very well-organised event both on shore and on the water, and a big thanks from the Aero fleet to all the volunteers and to the sponsors Airshed and NB Gin. ELYC host the next Aero Nationals from 24^th to 28^th July 2019, and we hope that our Northern friends return and many more will come enjoy this fantastic venue next summer.

Michael Alexander - 4th at Hadron Nationals

Bruce — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 07:20:42 GMT

Big congratulations to Michael Alexander, who finished an excellent 4th place at the 2018 Hadron H2 Nationals at Herne Bay Sailing Club.

Source and report: Sail World

RS Aero Northerns - Photos

Bruce — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 17:31:47 GMT

Additional photos of the RS Aero Northern Champs have been uploaded. Take a look here.

Jon Shaw Places 14th Overall

Bruce — Mon, 10 Sep 2018 11:14:30 GMT

Jon Shaw did East Lothian Yacht Club proud during the 2018 Phantom National Championships, by placing 14th overall in a fleet of 51 boats.

The event highlight for Jon, which ran from 7th-9th September at Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club, was in race 5 during which he secured a highly impressive 5th place!

Well done Jon!

Source: Yachts and Yachting

RS Aero Northern Championships

Bruce — Sun, 09 Sep 2018 16:55:33 GMT

Huge congratulations to Angus Boyd who took first place at the RS Aero Northern Championships, at his home Club no less, on the weekend of 09/09/2018.

It was a strong showing from East Lothian Yacht Club members. Not only from those competing in the event itself, but those who gave up their weekends to provide rescue cover, race management and hospitality to our guests!

Thanks also to those who traveled considerable miles to join us for the event. We hope you enjoyed it and hope to see you all back for the Nationals in 2019!

Photos will be posted as we get them.

Jon Shaw - Standing tall at the Phantom Nationals

Bruce — Sat, 08 Sep 2018 07:45:23 GMT

Our very own Jon Shaw has ventured south to Felixstowe Ferry Sailing Club to compete in the 2018 Phantom National Championships.

Its a good thing he's used to heights as he finds himself 17th in a fleet of 51 after day one!

All the best for the rest of the week, Jon!

Yachts and Yachting are covering the event here

Photos of Midweek Autumn 6

Wed, 22 Aug 2018 21:09:31 GMT

Photos of Midweek Autumn 6 - (22 August 2018) added. Pictures by Derek Braid

RS Aero Charter Opportunity

Bruce — Wed, 22 Aug 2018 19:16:10 GMT

Northern Aero Championships at ELYC

September 8th and 9th September 2018

If you would like to sail an Aero at the above regatta but don't have your own boat then JP Watersports is able to offer a number of charter boats for the weekend. The cost will be £150 and the boats will be delivered to and picked up from North Berwick.

If you are interested please get in touch directly with JP Watersports (james@jpwatersports.co.uk, or 07712896502)

You will need to be quick though as there are not many available and I'll shortly be putting out an email to the wider community of Northern and Scottish Sailing Clubs.

RS Aero Worlds - Weymouth & Portland

Bruce — Sat, 18 Aug 2018 17:34:48 GMT

3 of East Lothian Yacht Club's most dedicated souls, Iain McGonigal, John Wilcox and Robbie Lawson, dragged themselves, and their boats all the way down to the Weymouth & Portland for the 2018 RS Aero World Championships during the week of 4th-10th August.

A sum total of 208 boats competed across the 4 fleets. 61 Aero 5's, 43 Aero 9's and Aero 7 Gold/Silver fleets consisting of 53 boats each. This shows exactly how popular this boat has become since its release in 2014.

A total of 12 races made up the series for each fleet (i'm exhausted just thinking about that!) with Robbie finishing 17th in the 9's, Iain taking 33rd in the 7 Gold fleet and John securing 47th, also in the Gold fleet.

All three a credit to the club and no doubt they were promoting East Lothian Yacht Club with the Northern Champs and Nationals visiting us in the near future.

Well done chaps!

Dinghy Summer Series - Results Updated

Bruce — Sun, 05 Aug 2018 21:22:23 GMT

The results for the 2018 Summer Series, have been updated.

You can view them here.

Dinghy Wednesday Autumn Series - Results Updated

Bruce — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 11:40:46 GMT

The results of the Dinghy Wednesday Autumn Series have just been updated.

You can view them here.

Dinghy Summer Series - Results Updated

Bruce — Mon, 30 Jul 2018 11:20:28 GMT

The results for the 2018 Summer Series, have been updated.

You can view them here.

Dinghy Wednesday Autumn Series - Results Updated

Bruce — Thu, 26 Jul 2018 12:42:35 GMT

The results of the Dinghy Wednesday Autumn Series have just been updated.

You can view them here.

Dinghy Summer Series - Results Updated

Bruce — Wed, 25 Jul 2018 09:31:27 GMT

The results for the 2018 Summer Series, have been updated.

You can view them here.

Photos - Go Racing 17/07/2018

Bruce — Thu, 19 Jul 2018 11:51:21 GMT

Duncan Williams kindly took some photos of the action during Go Racing on 17/07/2018.

You can check out a selection of them, here

Updated Guidance Notes for Racing

Bruce — Mon, 16 Jul 2018 17:20:24 GMT

The Guidance Notes for Racing have been updated to include amendments to the start line configuration, introduced this season.

You can view the changes here

East Lothian Yacht Club Dinghy Racing

Bill Sneddon

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Open Regatta 2025

RYA Celtic Cup

Photos - Winter 1

Closed Regatta 2023

Racing Marks Updated

May Island Race Report

"Fidra" Wins!

NBHS Wins Brown Cup

Keelboat Calendar Updates

Pictures - Spring 4 - 29/04/23

Pictures - Midweek Early 1

Pictures - Frostbite 3 - 21/01/23

Pictures - Winter 4 - 03/12/22

Presenting - The 2022 Trophy Winners

RS200 Rooster National Tour

Photos - Winter 2

Sailing is Bullship...

Streaker Nationals 2022

ELYC Members at Tummel

Jimmy on the Podium

Tales from the 400s - Vol.1

You can't park that there, son!

Alastair & Roo Head to the Champs

Lifeboat Pennant - 02/04/22

Racing Pictures - 05/03/22

Frostbite Series - Pictures

RYA Scotland Winter Champs

Jon Shaw at the Phantom Nationals

ELYC Cadets at RYAS Junior Champs

Keelboat Race Report

ELYC at Loch Lommond

Closed & Cadet Regattas

Cadet Regatta ResultsClosed Regatta Results

We're On The Road Again

ELYC featured on Y&Y

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Well done, Roo & Oliver

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ELYC Regatta Dinghy Report

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Dinghy Racing - Pictures

Racing Pictures - 10/04/21

Race Squad

Rory Shows Us How

Photos - Autumn 3

RS 200 - Scottish Championships

Photos - Returning to Action

The Lockdown Shakedown (Dinghies)

ELYC Regatta 2020 - Postponed

Flying the flag, virtually!

Eric Twiname Regatta

Photos Uploaded - 14/03/20

PY Numbers - 2020

Early Bird 4 - Photos

2020 - The Year of R & R?

Winter 6 - Photos!

Congratulations, Roo!

Winter 5 - Photos

2019 Prize Giving Photos

Gold for Brendan & Crew!

Crane-Out & Autumn 5

Roo takes Bronze!

Midweek Autumn 6 - 28/08/19

Go Racing - The Last Blast!

Closed Regatta 2019

Well done, Iain!

Fisherrow Yacht Club Regatta

RS Aero UK Nationals - Pictures

Photos - Summer 3

Photos - Midweek Summer 6

Yachts & Yachting Regatta Report

June 18th - RC Yachts (updated)

Cadet Regatta Results
Closed Regatta Results