At the end of each sporting season the kayakers, rowers and sailors of the Royal West come together for a Closing Cruise to celebrate that end of the formal season. This year the Closing Cruise was scheduled for 2 October. The morning arrived dry but with a wet and windy forecast. Always intrepid, everyone set out around 11am.
Eleven rowers took out the St. Ayles Skiff Bertie Bowers and the Heavy Four Zebra. They rowed towards the Battery Park and then returned in heavy seas against the wind and tide. Sixteen kayakers took their kayaks up the Esplanade. Three sailors took their Boat out for a sail in the challenging conditions. Everyone returned safely after around 1 hour, soaked but happy.
Once the Boats were put away everyone retired to the Club House for hot drinks and chat.
While the Closing Cruise marks the end of almost all organised sporting activity at the Club, Members will continue to kayak, sail and row throughout the year.
The Rowers thank everyone who helped with the launching and recovery of Zebra. Special thanks to Susie Clark who provided the teas and coffee when we were back in the Club House.