Some of the reasons Off Soundings won the Stu Silvestri award were because in both the spring and fall races they set a great course and got 100 to 150 boats going. Then they had to move their lovely committee boat across to finish us. We all know what can happen when a race is run poorly, but lets stop and think about when a race is run so well that you don't have to worry about it.
The Richard H. Roberts Trophy went to the Thames Yacht Club who dedicated their Commodore's Trophy Race to his memory. Richard Roberts passed away in November of 2002. He was the secretary of the Eastern Connecticut Sailing Association and is still missed today. The Thames Yacht Club pulled off an outstanding party. They always welcome racers to their beautiful club and make them feel at home. They greet and wish us well. The food that was served was delicious. When the oysters were going to be late, they announced it to us. Wow what a refreshing way to handle things, just telling the truth!
If you want your race to be the best it can be, here are a few things to help. Make announcements. For example, the Mudheads did a great job with this over the radio. First they made the announcement and then they said that this announcement would be repeated in 2 minutes. Make sure the course is correct and that the line is square. Make sure the boats know how to finish. If all marks were to be kept to port, the mark to finish should also be kept to port unless otherwise instructed. Shorten the course if the wind dies! Or if you have a wind delay, shorten the course to accommodate the finish time. Make sure the buoys don't drift! If you have a lot of current, put out enough rode or use government marks. Pulling off a great race isn't just luck, it takes a lot of hard work. If your club doesn't have the experience, hop on another committee boat and learn.
Here're some tips to host a great party. Greet us! We like to know who you are and that you care if we had a great day. One of the best parties I went to was at the New Haven Yacht Club. They pitched a tent and served us hot dogs and hamburgers. They made us feel welcome to their humble club house. If there is going to be a delay in the food, let us know. We all have had problems, we'll understand. Nothing is more frustrating then being hot, tired and hungry and not knowing when we'll be fed. Whether your party is catered or not you have an equal chance at this award. Remember too that if we had a great race we'll look at the party afterward as better.
For a successful party and race you will need the help of all your members. While the Stu Silvestri Trophy may have a bit of luck attached to it, you may want to start praying for a steady breeze, no rain, and a temperature of 75 to 80!