Sidmouth Sailing Club’s awards evening last Saturday was well attended. The Master of Ceremonies for the event was the Commodore, Keith Brodie, writes Richard Paterson.

Brodie announced the sailing winners following a very busy and successful season, including the introduction of a new class to the club, the RS Feva. He went on to praise the achievement of the club, with assistance from club sponsors, in already having purchased four Fevas, for use in training and by club members

In this year’s Laser series, the main winner was Chris Clapp. The Scorpion series’ honours were more evenly spread, with Nick Jennings collecting two trophies and Simon Price and Miles Hapgood gaining one apiece.

With the RS Feva only being adopted as a club class at the start of the year, it was a welcome achievement to be able to award a series trophy to Imogen Dinham-Price and Josie Robb for the second Saturday Series.

In the annual Long Distance race, Paul Wilson won the Laser Trophy, whilst Miles Hapgood and Steve Smith collected the trophies for Scorpion helm and crew, respectively.

Following a break for a sumptuous supper, Keith Brodie went on to single out a number of people for special thanks for their work put in to improving the club and contributing to keeping it running. These included Miles Hapgood, Kath Channing, Kaz Millington and Gaenor Wearing.

This year’s training sessions were very successful in introducing young people to sailing. The most improved trainees were Oliver Benson, Arthur and Henry Paterson and Theo and Rudi Tobin. In addition, Karl Webb, a new member recruited as a result of taking part in this year’s RYA training, was awarded this year’s Novice Cup.

Kyle Fitch received the Most Improved Junior award and will soon be competing against his brother on an equal basis! Sapphire Smith gained the SSC Egg Cup, for Best Junior Crew.

Mark Wearing, Chris Clapp and Andy Mitchell were recognised for their efforts in maintaining the club sailing and rescue boats. Paul Channing and Connor Fitch also received awards for their particular contributions to keeping the club running.