When you step into the world of sailboat racing as a volunteer for the race committee, you're embarking on a journey filled with diversity and engagement. Every race day holds its own unique dynamics, thanks to the ever-changing nature of Lake Maumelle. Yet, the foundation of success lies in a well-structured plan and a transparent process.
A Glimpse into the Typical RC Volunteer's Day
Much like orchestrating a memorable dinner party for friends and family, a sailboat race involves distinct phases: Preparation, the Event, Clean-Up, and Socialization.
Note that the times listed are approximations. You will be given specific times by email or text before the event. During the event, the Principle Race Officer (PRO) will dictate the start and finish times for the races depending on the weather conditions. More information can be found in the Sailing Instructions (SI) and Notices of Regatta (NOR) found in the website Racing Section.
Preparation:
11:30 am - Join the Pre-Race Meet-Up
- Arrive promptly at GMSC's designated meeting point.
- Support boat drivers, committee boat drivers, and helpers converge at Westrock Marina to prepare their vessels before ferrying them to GMSC's property T-dock.
- Simultaneously, other race committee members convene at the T-dock, initiating the day's preparations. This involves equipment checks, inflating race buoys, and arranging personal items aboard designated work boats.
12:30 pm - Embarking
- By 12:30 pm, all boats, equipment, and volunteers are ready to depart from the dock.
- The Principal Race Officer takes the lead in coordinating pre-race activities, including timing the departure of boats to establish the race course.
- Depending on conditions, support boats might head out earlier to assess the lake conditions and position buoys.
The Event: Racing Begins
1:00 pm - Launching the Races
- The first race gets underway at 1:00 pm.
- Typically, the Race Committee manages 1-3 races during the afternoon, making start-time and finish-time adjustments based on weather conditions.
Clean-Up:
4–5:00 pm - Wrapping Up
- With precision, equipment finds its storage, and RC boats return to the marina.
- Once the tidying is complete, you're free to conclude your volunteering tasks.
After-Race Socialization:
After a fulfilling day of contributing to the race committee's efforts, take the chance to relax and connect with fellow volunteers and racing crews.
- Join the Post-Race Gathering: Share post-race refreshments with racing crews and enjoy the club's facilities.
- Seasonal Get-Togethers: During warmer months, hang out at the pavilion or parking area; in colder months, gather in the clubhouse.
- Forge Relationships: Chat with skippers and crew members. This is a great time to learn more about sailing and racing.
Volunteers participating in regattas are also invited to the club's meals and regatta festivities.