© Old Gaffers Association March 2012 The Old Gaffers Association: Formed in 1963 to promote Gaff Rig THE Association for Gaff Rig and Traditional Boat Sailing

Alone among the OGA Areas is the Trailer Section. This section at present covers most of the UK. Trailer section members belong to their local area, but because many of them own small trailable boats, they find that many of the events in their Area are only suitable for larger craft. Owning a smaller boat has many advantages, not least the freedom from mooring costs and the worry of winter gales. More importantly, unlike a cruiser which is often limited to 25 miles or so from its home port (unless it’s the annual holiday), the owner of a trailer boat can take the craft just about anywhere, and experience new challenges, not only at sea but also on rivers and lakes. Most members use tents or caravans when away, and a strong “après sail” tradition has grown up at camp sites. Quite a few play various musical instruments and most evenings either see an on site barbecue or a visit to a local pub for a meal. Truly, our motto is “Fun afloat, Fun ashore” All types of boats are welcome. Gaff rig is loosely interpreted to include, lug, gunter, sprit etc. Sizes vary from under 10 foot to 18 foot, but these are not limits. Types of boats vary from sailing canoes to small cabin boats. Neither are we into polished bronze and varnish, although you will see some excellent examples of this, it is not expected. The OGA is a broad church and encompasses members who love old boats and wouldn’t be seen dead in anything built after 1890, whilst others are perfectly content with brand new plastic. Please do not think that your  boat is too old or too new, or in some other way unsuitable. Contact the area: Area Secretary: Mike Stevens Tel: 01792 297445 e-mail: trailersec@oldgaffersassociation.org