January 2013

STREAKER NEWSLETTER

Hello All

You will perhaps realised by now that the Streaker class is gaining popularity at our club; perhaps its the clubs race results for 2012, or more likely that the secrets out that this is a very rewarding dinghy to sail; its so light (48 kg) and responsive and performs well in all wind strengths. It also caters for a wide range of crew weight; 62 - 92 kg with a choice of flexible or stiff mast & flat or medium cut sails to suit. Sail shape control is such that one sail suits all conditions. Its so easy to sail, full attention can be given to the “black art” of racing with all the rewards that brings. Don't just take my word for it but try it for yourself and ask me for a trial sail.

Derek Braid introduced the class to ELYC in 2010 & it soon became apparent to some of us that it was a single hander well suited to the club. I followed in 2011 & much to my surprise found myself having great fun toward the front of the fleet. Mike Rigg & Jim Lundy quickly followed with Mike enjoying a particularly race on his inaugural sail.

Mike 1771 inaugural sail

In the last few weeks a very attractive new Butler“composite build” boat of Hugh & Philippa Marston has joined the fleet, and Ted Hill has just ordered a new Rooster FRP boat for delivery in the Spring. These helms bring depth in racing skill & additional strength to the potential fleet to 6 boats as we head into 2013. Regrettably there has been damage to many boats in the dinghy park, including two streakers, the owners of which are considering their options. It is now confirmed that one of these boats will return with a new composite & the other will become available on the market after slight restoration to its former high standard. It is hoped that a new buyer can be found from within the club.

Last year we hosted the first ever Scottish Championship at the club regatta & this is to be repeated in 2013. This has the full support of the Class Owners Association with the following entry from their December Newsletter:

“June was a busy month, starting with the Scottish Championships at North Berwick as part of East Lothian YC’s annual regatta. Dave Butler made the trip north, won the trophy and returned home full of praise for the event; this will be run again by ELYC in 2013 and is well worth supporting. “

( It's no surprise that Dave weighs in above 92 kg and won all races in convincing style, in a Force 4, gusting 5.)

Approaching the top with Dave Butler out of sight.

Although plans are available for home construction, all hulls are now invariably built by Butler Boats and Rooster Sailing. The former offers an all wood hull & a particularly attractive hull of composite construction; and the latter, a proven to be fast hull, well thought out in its design and well engineered on Rooster Sailing's behalf by the Boatyard of Beer.

If you wish to learn more on this class then speak with me or any owner, or go to the Streaker Class Owners Association website on “www.streaker-class.org.uk”. Within the “Market Place“ section of the web-site, information can be found on second-hand boats available. But you have to be quick; they do not stay long.

Best Wishes for 2013

John Hookway No1775, “[email protected]”