Successful students were awarded prizes by RYA chief examiner Richard Falk at the end of training dinner on Tuesday 23 April.

Kevin McMullan carried off the award for highest marks in the Dayskipper examinations with Rowland Berry being a close runner-up.  Rob Scott won the prize for highest marks in the Yachtmaster tests, with Michael Werle coming second. In accordance with tradition, Richard Falk, training manager and chief examiner for the RYA – was on hand to present certificates and Paul Banks took pictures of those awarded the highest marks.

Both of this year’s classes were of above-average standard and all who completed the courses were successful. Due to his earlier illness, Norman Hummerstone had been unable to run the Yachtmaster Ocean class but has indicated his willingness to run it this coming autumn. This year’s Yachtmasters and those from previous years who have not yet done so, are strongly recommended to sign up for this under-rated but very rewarding course; at only £95, it represents extraordinary value for money.

For his after-dinner reflections, Richard Falk drew on his column in the April number of Sailing Today. His analysis shows that, in proportion to the populations of the two countries, American sailors suffer 20 times as many casualties at sea as their British counterparts; all states have a system of compulsory licensing. In Singapore, both theoretical and practical training and testing are compulsory – yet yachtsmen take their practical test in a power boat. We can but rejoice that the Elizabethan spirit of adventure at sea and taking personal responsibility for acquiring skills are still alive in English waters. Richard developed his theme by emphasising that training is only the beginning: experience and confidence make a sailor and Jill Moffat reminded guests of the imminent Seamanship Rally (read Rob Scott's account of the rally here).

As usual, Richard leavened his thoughts with some of his characteristically Australian humour. Colin Abdey - Rear Commodore, Training - alluded to the high standard achieved by this year’s students and mentioned a forthcoming addition to the training programme: a new, two-evening event, addressing splicing of braided ropes, will enable members to master the technique and take away a full kit of tools at a handsomely discounted price.

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