Last Friday evening 17 April, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia hosted a dinner to thank retiring Principal Race Officer, Life member Richard Grubb. Richard had served the CYCA for over thirty years, 28 years of which were spent as the CYCA’s Principal Race Officer.
 
The dinner was attended by 20 of Richard’s invited guests including current Commodore Matt Allen, Past Commodore Hans Sommer, life members Denise Van Ewijk and John Keelty and many of those who assisted Richard in carrying out starting and finishing duties in countless events.
 
Commodore Matt Allen thanked Richard for his commitment and devoted service to the club.  Others recounted their experience working with Richard and praised his high standards and the camaraderie he inspired amongst his teams.  Commodore Matt Allen presented Richard with a beautifully framed CYCA burgee on which was mounted a memorial plaque celebrating his years of tireless service, on behalf of the Club. 
 
In responding Richard thanked the Club and those who he had worked with.  He stressed the importance of teamwork and valuing volunteers and thanked the Commodore for his contribution to this during his term in office. 
 
Whilst Richard has retired as CYCA Principal Race Officer he hasn’t gone ashore completely.  He continues to volunteer his services in this area at clubs closer to home and will never stop throwing in a line or going for a sail, whenever the opportunity arises.  – John Keelty