Commodore Newsletter - March 2025

As you all may have noticed, there has been a great stretch in the daylight and all boat owners and their crews are no doubt starting to think about the fast-approaching sailing season, or at least considering the preparation of their craft.

With this in mind, we have been active on the house front in regard to the solar panels, which have been now installed and should increase HYC's sustainability and make the Club somewhat less dependant on fossil fuels. These panels are grant-aided by Fingal under the Community Climate Action Grant. We are most grateful for their contribution and input into our club. As part of this project, i.e. becoming less dependant on fossil fuels, we are installing an electric bicycle charger. All this will be a very welcome addition to our club facilities. A big thank you to Robert Hayes, who project-managed above scheme from its conception. Hopefully, Helios the sun god will supply us with plenty of solar energy for our panels this year.

Our crane, which has served us well for many years, has been removed and transported to Rosslare for complete refurbishment. This refurbishment, which was originally thought to be impossible, will save us the expense of purchasing a new crane at a huge cost. Many thanks for this must go to Tom McMahon, for his input and invaluable advice. All going wel,l the newly refurbished crane should be back on station in five weeks time and will return to its full lifting capabilities.

The annual wash-up supper was a great success with a large number in attendance. This shows the committment and support by our members, all on a voluntary basis.

The new Sportsboats Class will be launched shortly. This class will further enhance Club competitive racing reputation; we wish them well in their endeavour and many days of fun and competition ahead. Watch out for them on the water!

I would like to encourage all our boat owners and crew - whether just pottering about, cruising, or racing - to make the very best of the coming season. 

Excitement is increasing with the imminent arrival of our newly built support vessel, yet to be named. The race management teams have been upgrading their skills and have invited participation of all interested members to join them and they are always looking for more participants. It's a very nice way to spend the day in Howth Sound, onboard with good company and ringside seats to exciting sailing events. Rear Commodore Robert Kennedy has invested a lot of time in bringing this project to fruition, on time and in budget. He is presently working on a training program for skippers of the support vessel, and his input is very much appreciated.

On the social side, the Club has never been as busy, with various events and meetings etc.  From 7 a.m. till closing time, there are many things happening in HYC. Our entertainment committee, headed up by Darren Wright, have brought in some new innovations, such as Quiz nights, Sunday Dining with music and Tango classes on Monday nights... rumours are that the Commodore has been signed up to take the floor!

 

Kevin Monks
Commodore