1994 Rotary Convention Taipei (China)

The 1994 Rotary Convention was for many Iforian's a difficult one as it was held in Taipel Taiwan (China). A successful AGM/Dinner was held under the command of Internationsal Commodore Jack Keyser at that meeting he reported on his recent trip to Osaka where he had the privilege of chartering the main Japanese Fleet followed by the chartering of two others.

Osaka Japan Chartering of New Japanese Fleets

At Korayand Y.C. Istanbul L to R Koray and Ferit Berin, Kay and Jack Keyzer, Nese and Atila Malker

The Iforian get together that year took place in Hawaii, where under the leadership of IRRC Joe Phillips a sailing event had been organised. Admiral William Retz US Navy, at the request of IRRC Joe Phillips arranged for "Rim Pack" war games. Fighting ships from Japan, Korea, Australia, and Canada together with unit's from the U S A steamed into Pearl Harbour while the IYFR Bridge and distinguished guests inspected them from the Admirals elegant Barge. Not since World War II had so many warships been in Pearl Harbour. A Truly wonderful historical event.

The following day having received special permission, Iforian's sailed to Pearl Harbour to once again visit the various warships, Submarines, Aircraft Carriers etc. In the afternoon a sailing race took place for the Les Vasconcellos Memorial Cup. The highlight of the festivities came that evening at the Commodores Banquet when Madelin Vasconcellos presented the cup to Charles Kinsey The last day again saw a sail to Pearl Harbour where a farewell brunch was served before Iforian's said their final farewells.

Eight new Fleets had been chartered in 1994 they were. In the U S A the Russian River Fleet with 20 members, The Coronado Fleet with 28 members, The Atlantic City Fleet with 20 members. From N S W Australia the Lake Macquarie Fleet with 36 members, from Jutland Denmark the Aaland Fleet with 10 members, from Japan the Osaka Fleet with 92 members, Kii Channel Fleet with 12 members, the Kobe Fleet with 41 members, and it was reported that we now had 62 paid-up active Fleets with a total membership of 2,250

It was also with deep regret that we learned of the passing of Past International Commodore Alfred Natkin who was our Commodore in 1977-1979 He had for many years supported in various ways many of our functions and was an avid sailor. He was a member of the Rotary Club of Encinitas and was very active in the San Diequito Boy's and Girl's club. He was 83 years of age when he sadly passed away.

Saturday 14th May the Great Sabot Race took place 11 Iforian's from Newport Beach attended plus members from the San Diego Fleet Trophy's were displayed at the Oceanside Yacht Club and some US$580.00 was presented to the Oceanside Youth Sailing Programme. After three races it was reported that PIC Marty Lockney finished 3rd and Fleet Cmdre Pete Barrett 5th.

A new Fleet was chartered in the Philippines on November 30th In February they participated in the overnight trip to Hamilo Bay, April found them sailing around the Marila Bay, and in April found them busy with the Manila Bay Yacht Club Easter Regatta and Subic Bay races.