An invitation from Keith Watson of the Old Gaffer’s Association (OGA) for us to join in their East Coast Race at Brightlingsea on 14 – 16 July 2017 – not to be confused with our own East Coast Rally at West Mersea on 26 August 2017. The OGA have for some time now had events involving Bermudan rigged boats and they are very keen for us to be represented. They have said that if there are three or more Atalantas taking part, they will award a separate trophy for the first Atalanta home. Further details etc are elsewhere in this newsletter. Please support this inaugural opportunity if at all possible. If it’s half as good as last year’s event (when it was flat calm and more of a drift), it’ll still be a great day out on the water.

The Old Gaffers Association has welcomed classic Bermudan entries for many years and all the races organised on the East Coast have a specific class and prizes for Bermudan rigged boats. Classic Bermudans are those designed prior to 1960.

The event starts during Friday with the arrival of competitors at Brightlingsea, berths are booked beforehand to ensure that there is sufficient space for all. Later in the day we have race registration and an informal get together at our hosts: Colne Yacht Club.

The race, which in good weather features courses of approximately 20 miles, starts on Saturday morning preceded by a briefing ashore for all competitors. We have prize giving late in the afternoon to ensure everyone has the opportunity to complete the course. This is followed by an evening meal.

On Sunday there is a small open boat event in the River Colne.
Since 1963 this has been an exceptionally well attended event, attracting both OGA members and non-members, including many of the local smacks, and we hope that this year is going to be equally popular.

Full details in respect of the Old Gaffers Association East Coast Race 2017, including entry forms, race instructions etc will be published shortly. If you would like to receive these details as soon as they are available or if you require other information please contact: