Sailboats set to shine
Mary Ellen Green
Staff writer
April 21, 2008
Next Sunday, Equimalt harbour will teem with sailboats, masts in full bloom and hulls gleaming from a fresh polish, to mark the opening of the Canadian Forces Sailing Association (CFSA).
Past and present Canadian Forces members in private yachts will commemorate the club’s 60th anniversary and launch of the summer sailing season.
CFSA member Charles Pash says most yacht clubs hold their opening day on the first Sunday in May, but since that day coincides with the Battle of the Atlantic, the Club decided to move it to the last Sunday in April.
The celebrations begin at 12:30 p.m. with a light lunch and meet and greet. For those interested in the association’s history, the clubhouse will display memorabilia chronicling the marina’s 60 years.
“We’ll have a wall display and table display with pictures and old news stories from the beginning to today,” said club historian, Lesley Quinn.
One of the more interesting pieces she’s uncovered is an old kisbee ring from her family’s boat.
Cmdre Nigel Greenwood, Commander of Canadian Fleet Pacific, will start the sail past by inviting everyone to “man their boats.”
The Naden Band of Maritime Forces Pacific will provide both ceremonial and celebratory music.
Since it is a private club, the festivities won’t be open to the public.
Pash said the best spot for public viewing is the Fisgard Lighthouse at Fort Rodd Hill national historic site.
“We’ll have the racing boats go first, followed by the cruising divisions,” Pash said. “I’m going to have my dress flags up for decoration.”
Members will return to the clubhouse where the Commodore will present awards for the best decorated boat and crew.
