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Daylight saving ended three weeks ago, the Yachting New Zealand Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! trailer has been parked up for the winter and sailing clubs are now in reflection mode as they prepare for their closing days and prizegiving.
Blake McKinnon won the green fleet at the Optimist nationals.
But it's also only 159 days until daylight saving starts and the 2018-2019 season cranks up again,
While winter is a time for some parents and sailors to take a deep breath and recover from a great season, in club land it's the time to prepare for the next season.
The South Island annual strategic planning meeting is coming up at the end of June, and is a chance for clubs and class associations from the South Island to come together for a day to discuss the regatta programme as well as brainstorm the issues that are affecting the clubs in the South Island. This is a must for one or two representatives from clubs and associations to attend, network and contribute.
Winter is also the time for clubs to and members to up-skill for the upcoming season, which also allows new and other members to gain some valuable skills to contribute to your club.
Race management courses are being planned for the upper South Island as well as further south. These courses are provided free of charge and are always well supported so members are encouraged to register early to secure a place. More information can be found here.
Dates for coach development courses around the South Island are being confirmed and will be published shortly. Now is the time to shoulder tap individuals, perhaps some of your newer parents and supporters. See here for more.
The Queen Charlotte Yacht Club recently hosted the Optimist national championships. Photo: Lamirana Photography.
The South Island has again hosted several class national championships, including the Optimist, 420 and Laser, and pristine sailing conditions can be expected when the events are scheduled appropriately to the local conditions.
Part of our sport is traveling to new places, sailing on different waters and making new friends in different regions. It has helped that State Highway 1 down the Kaikoura coast is again open, the Interislander supported events where possible and southern hospitality was provided in abundance.
Clubs are looking forward to the winter break, conducting some training and moving forward to an exciting 2018-2019 season.
See you then.
