Sailing season opens in style

AMID much colourful activity, the 2013/14 sailing season was officially opened at the Zululand Yacht Club (ZYC) on Sunday.

Attended in perfect weather by one of the biggest numbers of boats and crews for many years, the day started with the official flag ceremony led by the 1st Richards Bay Sea Scouts, followed by the traditional ‘Blessing of the Waters’ service.

Then it was all crews and passengers to the water as the fleet of yachts, motor boats, small craft and even paddlers formed a long flotilla that wended its way down the Mzingazi canal towards Pelican Island – with many a private battle taking place as water balloons were flung and hoses sprayed water and foam onto unfortunate victims.

Standing on a floating platform with his wife Michelle, ZYC Commodore Rod Banwell returned the salute as the armada passed by and each crew paid their respects.

Plenty of on-land activities took place throughout the day, while some informal ‘racing’ was held in the bay.

Banwell called on members to support the club well in its endeavours to remain one of the best yacht clubs in the country and the port of call of choice for international yachties.