The celebration Dqy, 20th July

The celebration Dqy, 20th July, is our oppotunity to celebrate absent friends of the club. There are three trophies where we honour past members for their contribution to the club:

Paul Smith Pursuit Race

Paul was an active member of the club from 3 days old, 1988, his parents Liz Smith and Colin Smith being very active members at that time. Paul developed his sailing skills over time and became an active cadet. When I rejoined the club in 1999 Paul's sailing ability shone through, but so did is camaraderie with the other cadets. He shared his infectious enthusiasm for sailing with cadets and other club members and took on leadership of a group of cadets helping them develop their skills.

Paul loved to dance and attended the Central School of Ballet in London. But by the end of the course Paul chose sailing, and went on to be part of the support team for the British Para-Olympic sailing team, sailed in the highly competitive B14 fleet with Mark Barnes coming 6^th in the Europeans

Paul succumbed to cancer at the young age of 25, 2013. His optimism and enthusiasm continued to shine through his battle.

Brian Golton

The Colin Sproxton Memorial Trophy

is dedicated to the memory of Colin, a lifelong Mirror sailor and one of Herne Bay Sailing Club's most committed and respected members. A trained electronic engineer believed to have worked for Marconi Colin contributed countless hours to the club, maintaining its radio equipment and supporting the running of races. Long before formal RYA training was introduced, he took it upon himself to teach and inspire young sailors, generously sharing his knowledge and passion. Colin's competitive streak wasn't limited to the water he was also a keen rally driver, regularly entering events including the Monte Carlo Rally, in 1959. That spirit of competition stayed with him throughout his life. Tragically, he passed away doing what he loved most racing his beloved Mirror dinghy. During a Wednesday evening Lone Mirror race, Colin crossed the finish line in first place, tacked, and sadly passed away onboard. This trophy honours his legacy, both as a skilled sailor and a true club man.

The Jim Newberry Memorial Trophy

commemorates another exceptional member of Herne Bay Sailing Club. Jim Newberry was a lifelong sailor, a past Commodore, and a passionate Mirror enthusiast who mentored many of the club's young sailors. During the Second World War, Jim served as an RAF officer flying reconnaissance missions over Europe as a photographer aboard Lancaster bombers. His wartime service is reflected in the unique trophy a compass from a Lancaster aircraft. Jim continued sailing into his late 80s, always encouraging younger members with kindness, wisdom, and unwavering enthusiasm. A highly capable sailor and dedicated volunteer, Jim's legacy lives on through this trophy, celebrating the values of mentorship, service, and community spirit.