RALLY REVIEW
Seventeen boats berthed at Bucklers Hard Marina on Friday afternoon (12 power and 5 sail) and after a bit of a chaotic arrival, the rally occupied the entire length of the outside of the visitors pontoon, affording many vessels a fabulous view of the river and local wildlife.
The rally leaders made sure to place an order for glorious weather for the whole four-day weekend and it certainly was delivered! Pontoon drinks of Friday evening was well attended and some crews took advantage of the food and bar trucks in the boatyard, which this year featured Thai food.
On Saturday morning, 5 teams took part in a treasure hunt around Bucklers Hard, with some crews combining forces, leading to entertaining combined team names such as ‘Old Moon Clipse’. The team with the most correct answers in the shortest time was ‘Rubbish’ and the runner up was ‘Miamara’. Prosecco, novelty rubber ducks and bragging rights were awarded later during the evening festivities. Those not cracking codes, solving riddles and hunting for clues walked or cycled to Beaulieu village or relaxed on board.
On Saturday evening, the BBQs were lit and the marquee was filled with live music provided by the fabulous ‘The Dinner Set’. They took requests and cracked jokes while club members ate their meals and danced the night away (until 21:30!). And like all good pop concerts, there were VIP after parties on several vessels. **please see below for an additional comment on the evening
Six tenders and two main vessels made their way down river to Gins Farm on Sunday morning, where 19 members and guests enjoyed an excellent roast dinner in good company. Some returned to the marina by tender and others walked back. All made it back safely, some with the judicious use of a bung!
With some vessels having departed, Sunday evening was a relaxed affair of wine, sunshine and good conversation. Some stayed up late to watch the football and those who got orders in early enough, enjoyed a leisurely breakfast of buttery, warm croissants from the harbour shop before departure. All vessels left Bucklers Hard on Sunday to return to their home berth or to continue their seafaring travels.
Steph & Steve Jones - No Faffing
** Additional Comment as Steph is too modest
Well who knew.... ????
I don't think that anyone present at the Saturday BBQ evening will ever again hear the song 'Baker Street', without thinking of the very accomplished and wonderful performance delivered by its soloist,our very own Steph Jones!! She simply 'nailed it', with, professional aplomb, and made it a very memorable evening for all.
Thank you Steph.
Perhaps an encore at the PSYC Christmas bash?
Courtesy of Susan Scott