We had a fantastic total of 96 respondents to our SVOD Class Survey, with a vast amount of quality input, suggestions and support. The full results are on the 'forms' tab but here is a very brief summary:

Age groups of respondents:

•  12-15: 2 (2.1%);

•  16-18: 2 (2.1%);

•  19-30: 7 (7.3%);

•  31-50: 29 (30.2%);         

•  51 and above: 56 (58.3%)

Summary:

Responses were generally very positive about SVOD Class racing and social events. However, concerns were raised about some key issues which impinge on enjoyment of racing and social activities, and the Committee will be actively addressing them.

The good:

•  The quality of race management, particularly racing from the Committee Boat Enthusiasm and friendship within the Class

•  Efforts to maintain the one-design ethic of the Class

•  The Victory fleet – although it would be good to get bigger fleets

•  Our social events, although the Dinghy Dance needs a bit of improvement 

•  Rules adherence: respondents mostly ranked their own performance as good, but

•  others as less so

•  Communication with the Class is good – but we need to do more electronically, and

•  reduce the length of newsletters.

The less good:

•  60% of the respondents did not enter any of our three annual regattas – because of other engagements OR because the regattas are assumed to be only for 'better sailors'

•  The Cadet, Morning and Victory fleet races have relatively low numbers, which participants find discouraging

•  Amber fleet race starts are often delayed, causing frustration and tiredness in windy weather

•  Start times of races are not consistent; when evening races are not held at 1730,  people are caught out.

•  Still too much shouting and bad behaviour on the water, particularly at downwind marks

•  Starts are badly monitored; in big (+50) races, people cross the line early expecting

•  they won't be spotted.

The two issues we were particularly canvassing views on:

1. Ferry Service: 25.5% said they would use the £65/£38 SVYC launch service before

evening races, with 52.1% saying they would not 

2. Sails: The majority of respondents (60%) want new sails to be bought every 3 years,

as at present. 21% would like to replace them every 2 years.

Thank you to everyone who responded to the Survey. 

Please have a look at the full results and contact me or another member of the Committee if you have any subsequent ideas or suggestions.