Something to aspire to… An old sailor’s proverb that is confirmed by experience puts it: "The speed of your boat increases with your own confidence" - Manfred Curry.

While the Silver Fleet boys are feverously planning training sessions, bending masts, learning Thai phrases (those social animals), putting time on the water and in the pub, it’s more domestic duties for many if not all of the Gold brigade.

Congrats to two otherwise confirmed bachelors Owen and Norbert on their recent engagements. Maureen and Cliona, I hope you realise the amount of weening from the demon fireball that is ahead of you!! Great party, Owen!

Sleepless nights I’m told for Martin Treadwell - congrats to himself and Hilary on the arrival of Jennifer. Contented snores from Cass - well done to Cass and Michelle on their wee girl Caroline. Cass has been spotted at various sailing clubs practising his tacks, under the cover of darkness, with baby Caroloine in pouch, or perhaps nappie!! Matt, in the meantime, is waiting with intent and grabbing as much beauty sleep as he can. Best wishes to Matt and Karen.

I think it is wise to leave the rigours of serious training to a later stage (keep the month of May available - details to come). We have more important matters to see to such as Going Away parties (Thailand-bound contingent), Pub Quiz (09/04/2000 @ Clontarf), and Buying and Selling of the beloved Fireball. The Celtic Tiger has gathered momentum yet again and the net gain in Fireball numbers is rumoured to be about 45. Both Shergar and myself will be putting the push on everyone throughout the season but particularly for the championship events. We’re aiming at 40+ for the Nationals so let’s do it!

I’ll leave with this thought: "It will be races in the big winds that will live in your memory, not the days in the lee scuppers with one eye on the jib the other on the telltale and zinc oxide on your nose" - Jack Knight (this quote is from an old Salin’s book on tactics).

Bon voyage to the armada heading to Thailand,
Regards,
Ian.