This years sailpast was a smashing success despite being rescheduled twice due to complications with high water levels. The weather was wonderful, the membership turnout was great, and everyone appeared to have a good time.
The day started with Vice Commodore Fred W holding the skipper’s meeting to outline sail past sailing orders. Next the membership gathering around the flag pole and George W performed the blessing of the fleet and Dave M did the ceremonial hoisting of the club burgee.
Twenty nine boats passed the stern of the Tomfoolery aided by a strong west wind. Aboard the flag ship was guest of honour deputy mayor Laura Vink and Commodore Tom W who enthusiastically greeted each boat as it passed. The wind, waves and clouds set the scene for some great pictures.
Before dinner live music was provided by Garry K and his group of musicians. prior to dinner bell, Chairman of the Board Rob A and Commodore Tom held a brief ceremony to dedicate the club’s new gazebo. The founding members, honourary life members and contributing member plaques were unveiled at this time.
The Commodore greeted 120 members plus children who gathered for a BBQ dinner accompanied by member prepared salads and ice cream with anniversary cake for desert. There was an outstanding selection of great food to eat. After dinner the master of ceremony, Herb sasquatch H took over and kept everyone in stitches with his monolog. 4 members then presented poems or songs. A surprise appearance by Sir John A McDonald tied in nicely with the Canada 150 theme.
The after dinner part of the program concluded with the awards. Prizes were give to Tomfoolery for best decorated boat, Salt Spring for Best dressed crew, and all the poems or songs were so good that they all received a prize.
Fred did an amazing job organizing the sail past on water activities. With cake baking, BBQ pits, ticket sales, 50/50 draw, tent/table organization, pot luck details the sail past committee under the leadership of Christine did an amazing job. Thanks also to all members who helped with the set up and cleanup for the event.
