In this issue

 Clearing the annexe

Have you been in the annexe lately? There's so much mess you could lose a squadful of Oppie sailors.

With the arrival of sea kayaks and the ever growing clutter, space is shrinking.

THE big job planned for the coming work parties is to empty the building, make sure all items are tagged and identified then tidy them up in a more pleasing order.

Unidentified belongings will be disposed of.

All members can help in various ways:

• - If you're keeping any belongings in the annexe, come at any time before the work party and make sure we can identify your stuff (label, tag, marker pen - make it clear).
  If you are keeping old mangy stuff you didn't even remember was there, please take it away or it'll be thrown out.
• - Some of the equipment in there belongs to people who are not members any longer. If you know any past member who is likely to have left an old windsurf board, a bent mast or a Topper sail, please contact them.
  It's not a witch-hunt to find out if everyone's paid their fees, it's a genuine clear-out to gain precious space.
• - Finally, on Sunday 1st March, Sunday 15th March and Saturday 21st March, come along, roll up your sleeves and help us. It will be worth the effort.

To summarise, if you have anything in the annexe: TAG IT,TAKE IT OR LOSE IT.

Thank you!

 Sunday lunch on 22nd February

On the 22nd February, we're doing the monthly Sunday lunch at the club.

We're offering a 3-course meal with coffee for £7.50.

It's a great opportunity to enjoy good company and catch up with other members, all in a relaxed, family atmosphere.

Book a place or let us know of any dietary requirements with Mark and Isabelle on 01273 703512.

See you there!

 Calendar 2009

For all events happening this year, the Calendar 2009 is the place to look. From the earliest work parties all the way to Boxing Day, the new format is full of information about our club and other external events. If we have forgotten something, please let us know on webmaster@lancingsc.org.uk and we'll include it. Thanks!

Finally, we're already putting together all the elements we need to ensure successful Open meetings and Youth Regatta, as well as the Streakers Nationals. There's a bunch of people behind the scene that really believe in the club and get it working day in, day out. But despite their enthusiasm, things won't happen if no one else follows. Lancing sailing club is a great place to be. It belongs to all members and it is what we make of it. So, come along and enjoy!

 What's coming this winter

You know it as well as I do: Lancing SC doesn't hibernate totally. We've got a few events planned before the start of the 2009 season.

The next event is the Sunday lunch happening on 22nd February.

March will see a lot of activity. Bob our bosun has chosen 3 dates for the work parties. They will happen on Sunday 1st March, Sunday 15th March and Saturday 21st March. Please come and help, as it is usually the same few people who spruce up the club for the benefit of all. No need to be superfit, there are plenty of jobs that don't require heavy lifting. Work parties are fun and get people together after a few months of inactivity. The Lancing e-news will send you an email in plenty of time.

March is also the month for the RYA Dinghy Show at Alexandra Palace. It is taking place on 7th and 8th March and promises a lot of special events and bargains, as well as a shiny new boat on the Contender stand. See details, directions and entry prices on their website: www.dinghyshow.org.uk.

Quite a few things coming up as you can see. Keep an eye on the forum for more details, and in your inbox for the news emails.

 Training programme revealed

This year, we are very lucky to welcome Gavin Hardman as our training officer and youth coordinator. He's been already very busy preparing the new season and has come up with a comprehensive training programme, targeting all abilities and focussing mostly on our younger members.

Gavin presents his training programme in the Training page. He's planning 6 dedicated training days to help juniors and adults with various aspects of their racing.

David Trout (Laser fleet captain) is also going to run a Laser training day on 13th June. This event was highly successful last year and Laser sailors have been looking forward to a repeat.

For all questions, offers and suggestions, please email Gavin on training@lancingsc.org.uk. He'll be very happy to help.