The foundation was set up in the memory of Andrew 'Bart' Simpson to inspire the young generation through the sport of sailing. This event was a world first, embracing the concept of sailors racing each other from clubs across the country and across the continents. Apart from raising funds and awareness, the event was also an attempt to set a Guinness world record for the largest sailing race in 24 hours (multiple venues). All Yacht Clubs in South Africa have been urged to assist in the project and the Knysna Yacht Club has taken the request to heart.
Sunday dawned bright and clear, but by 09:00 there was not a breath of wind and the image of many yachts floating becalmed on the lagoon was conjured up. However, by lunch time a brisk breeze had settled in and it became rather fresh during the race, which commenced at 14:30 on a rising tide with the wind Southerly. A mixed fleet of 27 boats participated, ranging from RS Teras to Keelboats, one of which provided a magnificent centre-piece by running aground on the sandbank opposite the yacht club, and remaining 'parked' there, with sails hoisted, until the tide freed her.
The very stiff breeze conjured up at least nine capsizes during the race, more than one from some of our most experienced sailors. The Knysna Yacht Club president Roger Clancy, said he was well pleased with the turnout and the support of Bart's Bash.
The weekend of September 13 and 14 should have seen some class racing, which necessitates a minimum of four boats in any class sailing against each other, but sadly there were not four boats of any one class entering the race. Therefore the usual handicap racing was undertaken. The wind was light and undemanding, making strategy, tactics and skill important.
Three races were sailed and the first place went to Dave Shilton and the second position was Dudley Isaacs' both sailing Finns, and the third place went to Bhekumuzi Hani in a Laser.
On the weekend of September 6 and 7, the Founders Trophy was raced for in a two-day event with the course taking sailors from the Knysna Yacht Club to the Heads and back. Excellent winds provided some excitement on the first day of sailing and the club's recently refurbished Enterprise had to be towed back to the clubhouse. As the sailors came ashore, with skipper and crew looking very wet and bedraggled, a comment was overheard, "Sailing an Enterprise is like learning to sail all over again!” On the following day, however, there was little or light winds, but it was a glorious day to be out on the water.
The start line for GLYC's Bart's Bash race on Island Lake was crowded with 31 boats participating. Photo: Mark Taljard.
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