Following the AGM at the Royal St. George Yacht Club in Dun Laoghaire Harbour earlier this week, a new team of flag-officers led by Commodore Richard O’Connor is preparing for a busy season once Covid restrictions are eased.
Like many sporting bodies, the Dun Laoghaire club has faced a potentially severe impact due to the pandemic but there were also signs for optimism reported as well.
The club has managed to sustain its 1,500-strong membership base and the virtual AGM held via Zoom heard that a combination of loyalty by members and staff alike have left the club in a stable position and ready for the 2021 season.
In addition to the new Commodore, Mark Hennessy was elected Vice-Commodore, Kate Fogarty as Rear Commodore (Sailing) and Derek Ryan continues as Rear-Commodore (Social). Robbie Walker and Brian D’Arcy were also appointed to the club’s operational board.
Tributes to Outgoing Commodore Peter Bowring
Paying tribute to outgoing Commodore Peter Bowring, Richard O'Connor said: "Peter Bowring has brought our club through, especially turbulent times to a point of resilience. Covid has seen people rediscover Dublin Bay's potential for leisure and interest in membership of our club is up, thanks to Peter's guidance and efforts to keep Sailing and watersports our priority."
Depending on final guidance from Government and Irish Sailing, the club has prepared plans to resume training, coaching and racing activities and anticipates Junior sailing courses for the Summer in accordance with guidelines.
The club will also relaunch its outdoor Bar & Catering services when permitted and looks forward to resuming its full range of social 'clubs within a club' later in the year when pandemic counter-measures are eventually eased.