VICE COMMODORE'S DINNER 2026

On Saturday, 31st January more than 50 members gathered for a drink and an excellent three course meal prepared by Jean-Michel and the team. As is customary, the evening was organised by Vice commodore Ros Warwick-Haller.

The holder of the Uffa Spoon, Peter Impey, told us first hand from his father of Uffa's forceful character and went through the nominations and stories of the year. The winning entry was a most delightful illustration of dedication to sailing coaching in the club. Peter Bide had been coaching less experienced sailors from the foredeck of a 2000, where he had been standing. A slight gust tipped Peter into the river. Peter calmly switched his coaching from the foredeck, all the while relaying from a swimming position, to how to deal with a man overboard situation. Peter was successfully retrieved.

The Commodore had been ambushed with the Sea Cock Trophy last year in respect of events in a Mediterranean storm, shortly after the sinking of the Bayesian, fortunately in a seaworthy Hanse with a short mast. There had not been a lot of yachting activity during the year, but we could not miss out on a fancy dress event facilitated by some BBC spectacle-creators. Martin Thomas, who was awarded the trophy this year, featured as the God Apollo in a stunning sunrise photo. Reproduced with permission!

Photo Marcus Chavasse

Photo Marcus Chavasse

Apollo

Photo Ros Warwick-Haller