RC Laser Class
Fleet Secretary - Tom Walker
The RC Laser is a one quarter scale model of a Laser Class sail boat. It is fitted with radio controls so that it can be sailed by a skipper from the shore. Starting in December 2008, a number of MYC members purchased RC Lasers. The following spring a group of skippers met and organized a fleet of RC Lasers. Informal sailing was enjoyed throughout the summer.
The following year, the fleet was organized and became “Manchester Model Sailing”. “MMS” applied for recognition by the American Model Yachting Association which is the National governing body for model yacht racing in the U.S. “Manchester Model Sailing” was accepted by AMYA and was designated as Club # 304.
During the summer of 2010, a few events were scheduled by MYC, but there was no formal racing as such. There were two factors which limited the activity. One was the small number of boat owners who are active in the club. The other was the venue selected for racing. Racing from the MYC floats, at least on a weekend afternoon, proved to be nearly impossible due to boat traffic, tidal current, eel grass and unsteady wind.
In order to increase the sailing opportunities for RC Lasers in 2011 the following changes will be made. Manchester Model Sailing will be promoted as an independent organization, with membership open to anyone who owns an RC Laser or is interested in model sailing. Sailing and hopefully racing will be held at a different location.
At present two locations are being considered. One is the Central Pond behind the Fire Station in down town Manchester. The Selectmen have given their approval for the use of the pond. It remains to be seen whether there will be enough wind and water. Once the dam is closed following the Smelt spawning season, sailing will be attempted. The second location is in the inner end of the Harbor between Morse Pier and the float at Reed Park. This area will also be evaluated. RC Laser sailing is scheduled for Sun July 17th and Fri Sept 2nd. The location will be posted on the web site and in the Trident.
If these objectives can be accomplished, the RC Laser Fleet should make a comeback and more detail will be added to the web site.
Should you have any questions or suggestions please contact Tom Walker at 978-526-4522 or twalker364@aol.com. You might also be interested in looking at the RC Laser web site: www.rclaserna@com and the American Model Yachting Association web site which is www.modelyacht.org.
I hope to see you on the water soon.
Tom Walker
Fleet Secretary