Meeting folks at the door of RVYC - Brian Huse, evening coordinator and fellow sailor telling stories

Richard talking to Olympic Star Silver Medalist Eric Jesperson and fellow sailor Paul Longridge

Olympic Sonar Silver Medalist David Cook passing his medal around the crowd starting with Zoë

On the West Coast we are coming down from a terrific high that was produced from attending an awesome event hosted by Royal Victoria Yacht Club earlier this week. Friend and fellow sailor Brian Huse spear headed the event which was a huge success. We had six of RVYC's past Olympians in attendance and recognized (Penny Stamper, Richard Clarke, David Cook, Jeff Eckard, Eric Jesperson, and Richard Myerscough). Scott Killam who gave us all a history lesson in Olympic Sailing pointed out that Royal Victoria Yacht Club has had members represent Canada in six consecutive Olympic games! FANTASTIC! The evening was very well supported by the membership. Over 70 people came out. Richard gave an hour long presentation regaling everyone with tales from the 2001- 02 Volvo Ocean Race of which he was a member of the winning crew. He also told stories from other keel boat races, dinghy stories, past Olympic experiences and kept the crowd in stitches. He also invited all Junior Club members and National Team members to a High Performance race clinic he will hold this fall in Victoria. Just over $9000 was raised, primarily from generous donations from fellow sailors. Fabulous Clarke/Bjorn Star T-shirts were on sale thanks to David Cook.

Richard closed the night reminding everyone that it takes a community to win a medal and that he and Tyler will need more support in order to accomplish everything they have planned before arriving in London 2012. There are many ways to support the Clarke Bjorn Team: auction and raffle items need be collected for future Gala Events and Auctions; introductions must be made before corporate sponsors can be secured; the fundraising team always need help; provide a service; give a object d'art you have made or treasure from the basement - of course write a cheque or go directly to paypal but please help us bring home the Gold for Canada!

Sunday we are heading off to Fremantle, Australia for two and a half weeks of on the water training before the 2011 Star World Championships begin.

Stay tuned and thank you for your support!