80 miles from the sea and thriving!

THE GERRARDS CROSS SAILING ASSOCIATION (GXSA) was formed in 1966 in the leafy valleys of Buckinghamshire and is one of the foremost off-season associations. II has over 300 members whose interests extend to anything that floats - from dinghies and yachts to multi hulls, motor sailers and power boats - racing or cruising, fresh water or sail.

MEETINGS
The Association meets every Wednesday evening from October to March - an excellent way of curbing withdrawal symptoms during the quiet winter season. The bar is open from 7.30pm and talks start at 8.15. Attendances regularly exceed 90 with nearly 200 coming to hear Ellen McArthur (Yachtswoman of the Year), who is an honorary member. The. winter programme offers a balance of celebrity and member, expert and amateur, practical and educational. Above all, the aim is to provide fun and information for the off-season sailor. See the PBO Diary column for forthcoming dates.

SATURDAY SPECIALS
The GXSA also runs practical 'handson' Saturday Specials, covering a range of subjects - from marine electronics, engines, glassfibre repairs and VHF radio exams to first aid, ropes and splices, flares and liferafls. Day trips are also arranged, and recent visils have included the Weather Centre, HMS Victory, the National Maritime Museum and the Coastguard Operations Centre.

RALLIES
Rallies are well supported, as much for the social aspects and the light hearted treasure hunts as for the racing. During 1999 events were held at the Royal Solenl Sailing Club, Bembridge Sailing Club and the Osborne House open air orchestral concert at Cowes.

CREWING
The GXSA runs lists of skippers looking for a crew - and crew seeking a berth.