President's Report

I'd like to welcome you all to the Annual General Meeting of the Canadian Shark Class Association.  Copies of the Agenda have been handed out, however, if you don't have a copy raise your hand and one will be delivered to you.

My comments will be very brief this year as I only managed to get in two regattas last year and can’t say much about events.

I think overall the class remains healthy as evidenced by continued 30 plus boat attendance most regattas.  The counter series for Shark of the Year consisted of 9 regattas, which took place in 6 separate regions in Ontario and Quebec showing the continued strength of the fleet in a number of areas outside of Toronto.  We were the second largest fleet at the Toronto NOOD last year and that was mentioned in sailing world.  I am however concerned with the drop in membership over the past year.

Financially the class also remains healthy as you will see from the Treasurer's Report to be presented hereafter.  The surplus that we obtained last year is largely left over from the reduced costs of mailings that are no longer required and having been able to control costs associated with the website, our primary communication tool.  As I mentioned, there appears to be a significant drop in membership over the last two years and we need to try to figure out why.  Part of that process is trying to determine what else we can do for members to add value to their membership.  I am hopeful that complaints dealing with membership cards and delays in getting transom stickers are fully overcome this year.

The coming year promises to be a productive and active year as Vince, our V-P of Racing, has again co-ordinated a full schedule of events, some of which you will hear more about later.  As well, the shark continues to be sought after by organizers of other events as a beneficial addition to any multi fleet event.

All in all we had a great year and my hope is that 2005 will be just as good, given I only managed two regattas last year, that shouldn't be too hard.  Who knows, after three consecutive years as a bridesmaid, maybe Scarlett can even win shark of the year.

On a personal note I was speaking with Adrian last Thursday and he sends his regards to all.  He is currently recovering from a sprained ankle that occurred when he slipped on a wet deck.  He also wanted me to let you know that Gangrene is still for sale and with some TLC down below, a bow plate and moving the handrails, it should be good to go.