by Paul Turner » Fri Feb 19, 2021 7:49 pm
Hi All
An update on plans and a further invitation to any new participants. We already have a good turnout; 13 Cape Cutters and a guest appearance from Bob and Loretta with their Sadler 29; but we are very keen to welcome anybody else. We're particularly keen to welcome CC19 owners who haven't done rallies before. I can guarantee that the group is very welcoming and supportive and you will have a great week whatever your level of experience.
I'm now very confident that the rally will go ahead. The catering will need to remain flexible for now and will depend on how quickly the coronavirus restrictions are lifted. But I'm sure the marinas and sailing will be fine. We now have a base sorted and an outline itinerary with some reservations already in place. We'll be starting in Lymington, not Poole as original planned. This will give us more options and flexibility and will make it easier for people to get home after attending the OGA rally in Yarmouth which is only a few miles away across the solent.
The outline plan is to have a few easy days in the western solent visiting the main beauty spots including Beaulieu and Cowes. We will then, weather permitting, cruise to Poole for a night on the quay before returning the following day in time for the start of the OGA rally in Yarmouth.
I've been in regular contact with the OGA reps and they're keen to welcome us to their rally. I haven't been to an OGA rally before but it will be nice to be part of a bigger sailing community. (If you want to know what an OGA rally is like talk to Charles.) The Yarmouth rally is a big part of their regular programme and, like ours, had to be cancelled last year. They're currently putting their programme together but I understand their will be 'friendly' races on both Friday and Saturday as well as other opportunities for cruising in company.
I've set up a WhatsApp group for more detailed communication with participants so if you're not yet on it download the app and accept my invitation.
See you all soon.