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Club News

End of year message from the Commodore

Posted: Wednesday, 16 December, 2020

Here we are at the end of another season and this year more than ever it’s time to thank the many people who in different ways enable the club to operate, from the behind the scenes administration and maintenance work through to those providing the operational support for our on the water activities. Responding to the challenges of this year demonstrated the tremendous commitment of employees, volunteers and participants alike. I extend my personal thanks to you all.
Although our planned racing and training programmes were significantly reduced this year we were able to start reopening the clubhouse, hold over 20 races, introduce supported social sailing and hold the annual Whitstable Week event with really good turn outs. Windsurfers were able to take to the water and pleasingly the Cadets were able to hold their annual CadetFest where tremendous fun was had by all. We have benefited from the Royal Yachting Association’s guidance on Covid restrictions and, with the advantage of wonderful summer weather, managed to support people of all ages and abilities to get afloat and enjoy our watersports safely.
Going into next year we have planned for a full programme of activities although some may be subject to change depending on any government restrictions applied during the year. We also plan to hold the AGM in March, further details of the format will be published nearer the time.
The impact of the pandemic has meant that some of the changes we were planning for this year have been delayed. However there have been some successes. Online booking for training completed a successful trial, work has started on setting up the Dutyman application for next season making it easier for members to review and manage their duties, and we have introduced membership cards, the first benefit of these being a discount on purchases when produced at the bar. We also had the unplanned benefit of being chosen as one of the locations for the Whitstable Pearl filming.
So whilst the year has been somewhat unpredictable there have been some positive outcomes and we look forward to next year when things will gradually return to the new normal.
Finally, on behalf of the General Committee I would like to thank everyone for their continuing support for the club and wish you all a Happy Christmas and a healthy and safe New Year.