The MROA could not be more aware of the frustrations of our members with so many events cancelled in 2020 beyond our control. As a class, we book the Silver Tiller one year in advance, our Inlands two years in advance and our National Championship venues sometimes five to six years in advance. 

Covid-19 has quite literally thrown all our plans into complete disarray. There's a wonderful saying, 'You can't control the wind but you can adjust your sails.' Well, we are adjusting our sails so much so we are going to need some new sheets soon! 

We are all acutely aware that this year, for the first time in the history of our class we won't have a National Champion, a Silver Tiller Champion or an Inland Champion. However, we want to reassure you that we are doing all we can to be in a stronger, maybe better position to deal with what 2021 may bring, whatever that may be. By this we mean the committee is actively looking at factors which have prevented events going ahead in 2020, and considering all options to try and do what we can to lower the risk of losing these key events in our calendar in the future. On paper, Caroline already has plans in place for the Silver Tiller (plus other exciting events!), we have our Inlands venue (Bala, 25th and 26th September), and our National Championships venue (East Lothian, 15th - 21st August). 

We ask you to keep in mind that Covid-19 does not appear to be going away, and the running of events is being taken out of our control. We, therefore, suggest that we all take a cautious approach when making any bookings for accommodation for all events, we are on bumpy seas and no-one is sure when this storm will pass. It will pass and there will be an awesome event to mark the occasion! 

Our pledge to you is that we will look to have a clear communication channel (our forum). Updates on all class organised events will be shared at the earliest opportunity. In the meantime, we hope you enjoy sailing or racing in your Merlin Rockets either at your club or one of the open meetings which are being planned for later in the year.

M.R.O.A.