Under a grey sky and a shifting wind, Martin White and his team notched up another successful morning of Learn To Race (LTR), featuring short course races in Double Bay. The fleet consisted of six non-members sailing club boats, and four club members sailing their own boats.

Racing commenced on time, and the imposing Max Jura used his height to advantage in holding up the start flags and doing his version of a loud, raw, Aussie accent to give competitors the countdown to the start hooter for a 5-race format.

The racing at times resembled “dodgem cars” with each boat vying for top position at the turning marks with no holds barred. On water coach, Martin White, gave his words of wisdom, and by the last race, the fleet was starting to look more orderly.

LTR is not just for non-club members. It's also designed for tentative club members who are wanting to build up their confidence, so they can tackle the afternoon racing.
Congratulations to regular LTR sailor, Peter Darcy-King, who from raw beginner, has progressed to buying a boat, and is now doing the afternoon races.

Dave Evenden is also on the improve, and our regular LTR sailor and Club Secretary, Tory Epworth, has developed from being a sailing beginner at LTR, to being a highly valued club member.

A special mention to LTR sailor of many years, Derek Hand. This is a true story: He has recently signed up to a one-week coaching course with a USA coach in Mexico at the end of this month. Martin White sees this as a turning point in Derek’s sailing career and by Derek’s own admission if he doesn’t improve after this financial splurge, he will hang up his boots and sell his boat! Stay tuned for Derek’s article on his return from Mexico and we wish him well on his trip halfway around the globe flying the DBSC banner.

And lastly, many thanks to our regular LTR helpers: Martin White, Pat Levy, Peter Collie, Scott Hunter, Steve London, Tim Heath and Max Jura.

— Ian Tudball