The Old Gaffers Association: Formed in 1963 to promote Gaff Rig

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Membership

*Now Join Online - see below*

As ratified at the 2008 agm, the membership fees have increased from 1st January 2009

Are we all fanatics then?

Not at all! Actually we're just a friendly bunch of people who like meeting up to sail in company, have a barbeque on the beach, the odd race maybe - ok, we do think there's nothing better than the sight of 40 gaffers setting off together at the beginning of a race, and then there's the thrill of the bow wave when you stand on the foredeck of a gaff cutter.
Oh well, maybe we are a bit fanatical, but we're happy !! 

What age do you have to be to become an Old Gaffer?

Any age, lots of families take part in OGA events so our members cover a wide age range. The OGA was founded in 1963 when most gaffers were old and in need of preservation but these days gaff rig boats are being built again - some using traditional methods, others using modern materials -they're all very welcome in the OGA.

Some of our boats are older than our members, but thankfully none of our members is as old as the smack Boadicea built in 1808.

Did you say Smack?

Calm down, it's a type of sailing fishing boat dating from the 19th century

But I don't own a gaffer !

It doesn't matter. You don't have to own a boat - you could crew for someone else. Membership is open to all who are interested in sailing, building, restoring or simply admiring gaff rigged and other traditionally rigged craft.

Then what happens?

We sail. We cruise in company, organise races, meet up for rallies. There are so many places to choose from around the many areas of the OGA. Then there's the pleasure of telling your friends where you got your tan (don't tell them it's windburn )

What is this about racing then?

Some members are very keen racers, others take part simply to be in amongst the lovely boats. Classic Bermudian owners can be members too, though they race as a separate class. If racing doesn't appeal, you can either anchor up and watch or make your own way to an event.

Where is the OGA based?

We don't have a base but we're everywhere! There's a central organising committee and the UK is divided into separate areas that organise their own events and rallies.

We also have branches in Ireland, France, Germany, Spain, Portugal, Holland, USA, Canada and Australia.

 A copy of the association rules are available here

There are three ways to pay to join the OGA: By cheque or direct debit using the membership form, or on-line by going to this page.

Payment by direct debit will give you a discount of £2 on individual and family membership.

If you would like to join the OGA please print out the form here (you will need Adobe Acrobat Reader v6 or higher) and send it with a cheque for the correct amount  and made payable to the OGA, to the Membership Secretary.

Alternatively, complete the Direct Debit Mandate on the same form, and send it to the same address.

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