Hi everyone,
A few points to bring to your attention:-
1.  Our first De May series event, 19th April, is at DATCHET SC and not UTSC as shown in some previous advertising. This is our first visit to Datchet so please come along and support.
2.  We are trying to get our own start at the Inlnad Champs - so please sign up on Dave Lee's forum posting (just follow his links).

Oh! I nearly forgot - Mervyn has posted a new De May series HANDICAP for 2008 !! (to be used in all events)

Does the new handicapping system mean the use of age handicaps will be dispensed with?

The new handicap only relates to the De May series (merlins racing against merlins). The old boat handicap was provided for mixed handicap fleet / club races and is provided by the MROA Rules and Measureemnt cttee.

Can we have an exact definition of beam please? Is it inside hull to inside hull, outside hull to outside hull or outside gunwhale to outside gunwhale as gunwhale overhang can vary considerably between boats?

P.S. Datchet sounds like fun as it's a nice big water so I'm sorry we won't have a Merlin fit to sail by then as there's a re-deck to do.

Hi Sandy and/or Pat
I do not know the precise definition and we may have to seek this out. I expect that it is the sheer line at the widest point, if that helps!! (where the projected hull intersects with the deck, its a bit like measuring the lower black band, if you know what I mean??). Sorry, Sandy that is probably complete gob...gook - but it is that time of night!!!

2007 Yearbook describes classic boat beam as not exceeding 5'8" excluding gunwhales. If that helps. So presumably that would apply to 6' measurement? I'm probably seeing  the Mythical Mervyn later today and will ask.
Nick

Just wondered if in the consideration of handicaps the ease of getting going again after a capsize was taken into consideration.  The ribbed boats with a stern deck are out of the race after a capsize while other vintage boats have transom flaps and can clear water really quickly.  Just a thought but I won't be reaching for the jigsaw and perspex!!

Capsize issues are rather wind-dependant...hard to allocate a fair number for all conditions I would say.

We managed OK last time Garry! All it needs is a firm pair of thighs wrapped round the centreboard case, and the whirling arms on bucket duty...

True, true Mags - but you have to admit it wasn't sail away on a reach and empty the boat!!

Garry, with those wide side decks the trick is everyone in the water so the boat floats high and dry on its side and it will come up more or less dry!

We are looking forward to seeing the Vintage merlins at Datchet next weekend, which also is our "On the Water Show".  There is lots to do as well as see these loverly Merlins race.  So even if you don't have a Vintage come down and spend Saturday at Datchet, enjoy good company, great food and some great activities.

I'm told the old boy from the chandlery might get 2905 out for a sail, if he can get her ready in time! Everyone who beast him on the water will get 10% off in store, not a bad reason to turn up.
It will be a great day and you'll be assured of a very warm welcome.

Forgive me if I've missed it somewhere but what is the schedule for Saturday at Datchet? 
Nick

For Datchet

1st Warning signal not before 1255hrs, 3 races, £10 entry fee.
Easy launching, great club, friendly people and great beer (Flowers & Becks on draft. Views of Windsor Castle.

I'll post NoR on club site this week and prvisional SI'1 to include new Vintage H/C.

FIRST START is at 11.00am.
Mike has kindly agreed to alter this from 1.00pm