The Tokyo Sail and Power Squadron celebrated its 70th Anniversary in grand style with a sumptuous BBQ party at Yumenoshima Marina on Saturday 3 October. Neptune gave us his blessing in the form of a glorious sunny and warm day, with the sun sparking off the waters of the marina and the drinks in our hands.
The party was well attended with over 25 people including current and past members and their friends and family. Commander Remi launched the event with a speech in which he reflected on the long history of the squadron and the work of past commanders and members that had laid the foundations for what we enjoy today. After a toast the BBQ got underway, with large amounts of delicious food cooked, consumed and washed down with generous quantities of drinks over the course of the afternoon. To celebrate this significant milestone in the squadron’s history, all participants received a floating keyring holder as a 70th Anniversary memento.
During the party, Remi called upon past commanders Mike Snyder, Gary Thomas and Eugen Mall to share their memories and tales of the squadron in the past. Eugen gave his recollections while resplendently dressed in a cap that was a replica of those worn by the German navy in 1911.
Halfway through the afternoon the TSPS 70th Anniversary Grand Quiz was held, with 15 dastardly difficult questions designed to test the participants nautical and general knowledge to the limit. Tom Procter achieved the highest score with an impressive total of 12 correct answers, enabling him to have first choice of an extensive array of prizes including bottles of rum and wine, luxurious Imabari towels and other items of treasure.
Next there was a lucky draw with the winners receiving an elegant metal pin-badge of the TSPS flag, and throughout the afternoon a large selection of TSPS swag was on sale at discounted prices, including polo shirts, long-sleeved shirts and hats. Bargains galore!
No party can be successful without a huge amount of planning and organisation, and on this occasion it was largely due to the hard work of Svetlana. After thanking her for her efforts, we celebrated the fact that she and Alex were getting married the following weekend by presenting her with a wedding card signed by everyone and a bottle of champagne. Congratulations and wishing you a long and happy life together!
With the sun setting on what had been a glorious day and a thoroughly enjoyable party, it was time to take a photo of that wonderful group of people who are us, the Tokyo Sail and Power Squadron. Long may the squadron and its members thrive!
