26/04/2024
At the recent East Cape Regional Championships this young fellow showed determination and grit as he manfully sailed with his Optimist Dinghy full of water - the wind from behind was certainly a bit of a hindrance to the "Sail and Bale" technique that all young Optimist Sailors learn.
Watching these youngsters being introduced to the sport of sailing on the Redhouse River always brings a lump to my throat as I remember watching young Philip learning the ropes at this very venue.
And I remember, with less fondness, learning that the title "Oppie Parent" is sometimes said with derision as we watch every new parent stride up and down the river shouting encouragement, commands and tactic suggestions (most vocal are the Oppie parents with no clue on how to sail!).
The Eastern Cape Regional Dinghy Championships were sailed out of the Redhouse Yacht Club from 20 to 21 April 2024. Sailors from Knysna, George Lakes, East London and Gqeberha revelled in the conditions. Related: NRO Site. - RYC 2024 Regionals - EH5J1805.JPG