We have had another very successful year, with a few new members. Starting from the beginning of the season, we had another successful Training Day. Once again Brien Hennessy and his daughter Rosie did a wonderful job again for us, with a different format this year by doing short races, where people could get start sequences etc. Everyone said they got quite a lot out of the day.
Our State Championship this year had 24 entries. With all the races conducted at PDSC and 4 Heats being contested prior to the National Championship, giving good practice leading to the Nationals.
The National Championship was very successful, with a number of competitors expressing their thanks for a great regatta. They commented on the good winds and professionalism of the on-water
team, lead by new age P.R.O. Larry Smith. I would also like to thank PDSC for hosting and their volunteers assisting in making the Regatta successful.
I have enjoyed the past 16 years being involved in growing the class from initially 3 boats to the numbers we have now. Also having the class in several clubs. There were pitfalls along the way but
overall, my experience as President was enjoyable. I would like to thank the current committee for their support, and I would like to make a special mention to our Treasurer Mike Dean for his valued contribution in keeping our books so concise, as well as his assistance in various matters.
I also have 3 long term committee members that I wish to pass on my special thanks for their long term commitment. Our State Measurer Rob Depiazzi who has built so many Sabres over the years in building the fleet
from the beginning and then took on the position of State Measurer 16 years ago. Also, my 2 family members, who took on positions at the beginning as well. The Association would not have eventuated if Jenny had not agreed to investigate how an Association is formed and run 16 years ago.
Chelsea took on the position of promoting the class here in WA with so much enthusiasm and has done a fantastic job promoting the class Australia wide. Her career in event management was invaluable as well. I know we all wish Chelsea well in her upcoming position as Commodore at PDSC.
Lastly, I would like to thank the wonderful sponsors we have had over the years. Firstly, Boating Hardware was on board for our first State Championship 2011/12 through to 2021/22 as well as our
National Championships in 2013/14 and 2017/18. We now have SQP Engineering, who came on board in 2022/23 for our State Championship, continuing through to our current State Championship and then became our major sponsor for our last National Championship with their very generous sponsorship. Another Sabre member, Ed Bannerman from his business 4Branding has also been involved with merchandise assistance over the years.
In closing I wish the new incoming Committee all the best and keep the momentum going.
Brian Jones
6th February 2025