The Yachtsman 2017-2018 RPAYC Yachtsman 2016-2017 | Page 86

S A I L I N G S E A S O N O P E N I N G D AY
THE CLUB PLAYS AN IMPORTANT IN PROMOTING HEALTHY LIFESTYLES
T
he 2016/17 Sailing Season Opening Day
on Saturday 3 September at the Royal
Prince Alfred Yacht Club was certainly
a windy one! A 30 plus knot westerly
decided to put on a show lighting up all
the flags around the Club.
Commodore, Ian Audsley opened the speeches by
welcoming all with a nice summary of the Club’s 150
years of sailing and also mentioned the events which will
take place to celebrate the Club’s Sesquicentenary.
Rio Silver Medallists, Jason Waterhouse along with
his teammate, Lisa Darmanin outlined the role the
Club has in supporting fellow sailors to reach their full
potential. They also thanked the Club for their ongoing
support throughout their sailing careers and for waking
up in the early hours of the morning to watch them take
the Silver Medal at the Rio Olympic Games.
These comments were complemented by Federal
Member for Mackellar, Jason Fallinski who also
acknowledged how the Club plays an important in
promoting healthy lifestyles for the local residents
and how the sailing community showcases our
beautiful Pittwater.
The Hon. Bronwyn Bishop concluded the morning’s
speeches by acknowledging the important place the
Club has in the community, particularly with respect to
the support and integration of those with disabilities in
regards to the Club’s award winning Integrated disAbled
Sailing Program.
After the Commodore declared the Sailing Season
Open, the Hon. Bronwyn Bishop, along with Jason
and Lisa, fired the cannon. Unfortunately, the breeze
was so strong race management decided to cancel the
Pittwater Dash. A handful of brave sailors dressed up
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YACHTSMAN
and participated in the Sail Past. It was then back to the
clubhouse and Members and guests enjoyed a gourmet
BBQ , live music and the day’s presentation.
Norm Weaver’s Jazzamatazz won the Best Dressed
Boat and John McConaghy’s Second Time Around won
the Best Dressed Crew.