Every year Perth Flying Squadron Yacht Club holds the Wally Pickford Memorial Marathon named after Past Commodore Wally Pickford. Wally was born and bred on the Goldfields and had rarely seen a river before a job opportunity brought him to the big smoke. Wally quickly grew fond of the water and before he knew it, he was sailing on the Swan at every opportunity. It wasn't long before Wally was a respected Member of the Club Committee and in 1995 Wally was elected as Commodore. He went on to serve as Commodore for 3 years.

 

In 2023, Perth Flying Squadron Yacht Club lost Wally's wife Glenys 8 days before the Wally Pickford Memorial Marathon Race was scheduled for the year. It was only fitting that the Memorial Marathon Race was renamed the Wally & Glenys Pickford Memorial Marathon Race. Glenys was the first and only female Life Member at the Club and continued to be involved in Sailing at the Club right up until the beginning of 2023. Glenys was an integral part of the Sailing community, attending Events and being part of the Starters Roster.
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The Marathon covers most of the river and is one of the Club's most important races attracting yachts from most other Clubs. Wally Pickford has sailed Seafarer, Rhumb Runner and in the later years his beloved Shibumi, in every possible race. Shibumi although not a fast boat could hold her own in strong winds. Such a day occured in 2002. Wally had been undergoing a long period of treatment for a debilitating cancer. Despite being ill, he was determined to at least start the race. Not only did he start, but he won the race which now bears his name. Sadly, Wally passed away a few weeks later. The battler from the bush more than made his mark as the Squadron's number one flag bearer and his legacy will live on forever.
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To commemorate Wally & Glenys Pickford our annual Memorial Marathon will be held on Sunday, 24 March 2024 commencing at 11am
 

This year our sponsor Hemsley Paterson Valuers & Property Advisors has contributed $750 for our winning sailors, which will be divided over Division I & II, and Division III & IV.
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Prizes and Presentations will be held after the Marathon in the Mele Bilo Room.
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To register your participation in this event please call Reception on (08) 9386 6437 or complete the entry form below and return it to the PFSYC office by emailing members@pfsyc.com.au. 

 

Entry forms can also be located in our Members restaurant, from the office or filled out online.

 

PLEASE NOTE - Entry forms must be returned to the office by 5pm on Wednesday 20 March 2024.

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To guarantee a table for Presentations please email functions@pfsyc.com.au