Goldhanger Kestrel Open Meeting - 21st/22nd June, 2008

Entry Fee - £15 per boat including Camping, Free Tea and Coffee.

I guess to those already initiated in the joys of sailing 2 hours either side of Low Putty at Goldhanger, this missive is superfluous. To those who have not yet been tempted, shame on you for having missed sailing at the "Jewel in the Crown" of the Kestrel fixture list.

I guess I am the epitome of someone who loves the venue, as I upped sticks and moved house last year, to be the nearest possible resident to the Goldhanger S.C. So, it falls on me to tempt you to a venue which has, shall we say a certain reputation.

The club is quite unique in that it is accessed via a road that turns into a track through the famous Strawberry Fields of Wilkins (of Tiptree), purveyors of fine jams. You then arrive at a veritable haven of a dinghy park tucked behind the sea wall, where the club members have been busily preparing the club for this flagship event. The KOA may not actually be aware that the Kestrel Open is big news in the Goldhanger village calendar.

The club veranda/decking has just been renewed and the grass is starting to look like a lawn. The prizes have been bought, menus prepared and club members have been organised for the breakfasts and evening meal preparations. You may even find yourselves with some more of that wonderful Tiptree Jam if you're not careful.

Both of the club rescue boats now sport fresh engines, with the principal one carrying a brand new 40HP Honda 4-stroke. Those who recall the "Big Squall" from a few years ago will appreciate the extra power and control available to combat any adverse conditions - not that such conditions have been booked for this year.

So - the home fleet are keen to be taught how it should be done!! The venue is prepped and manned by a crew of Goldhanger vict... I mean volunteers. We have even managed to fill the Creek with Pacific Oysters (true!!) for those that fancy pearl diving between races. All we need is for you to join the home fleet.

The hospitality is guaranteed to be second to none and the water is looking sooo inviting...... See attached photo.

Directions - Drive to Goldhanger, turn right at the Chequers Pub and drive down to the bottom of Fish Street. Onwards through the entrance to the Farm and past some cottages on both sides of the road. Turn Left at the end of the Polly Tunnels and drive slowly down the rutted track to the Sailing Club. Please remember that this event is run with special dispensation from Wilkins, who maintain their Organic status with stringent restrictions on vehicle access for the rest of the year.

Evening Meal Saturday 21st June 2008 @ 6.30pm

Jacket Potatoes, Chicken in Goldhanger Sauce or Beef Curry or Vegetarian dish - salads a plenty with Chunky Bread and Butter.

Dessert - Tiptree Strawberries or Trifle with cream.

£6.00 per head.

Breakfast on Sunday 22nd June from 8a.m.

Fruit Juice, egg, bacon, sausage, baked beans, toast & marmalade

£4.00 per head.

If anybody would like breakfast in the clubhouse on Saturday morning (after having travelled down on Friday night), please let Rod Brown-Lee know on 07778206079

Note - First start is 1300 Saturday.