Summer 2017 Solo Specific · 2017-12-02 · Solo Specific Contacts N.S.C.A. Officers and Committee...

Solo SpecificThe National Solo Magazine, by members, for members

Summer 2017

National Championship Report A.G.M. Minutes and Rule Change

New Website User Tips Barbados Profile

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Solo Specific Contacts

N.S.C.A. Officers and Committee 2017-2018

Title/ Name Address Telephone Email Address

President Will Loy

49 Ocean View Road, Ventnor, IOW, PO381DH

07713 011825 [email protected]

Vice President Vacant

Hon.Treasurer Andrew Liddington

[email protected]

Membership Andrew Thompson (temp)

membership@solosailing .org.uk

Hon. Secretary Shaun Welsh

12 Partridge Road Dibden Purlieu Southampton SO45 4LP


Chief Measurer Gordon Barclay

98 Norwich Rd, Chichester, West Sussex, PO19 5DF


RYA Technical Adviser Bas Edmonds

Newsletter Editor Guy Maygar

8 Roundle Square Road, Felpham, West Sussex PO22 8JX

01243 584835 Mob: 07527107403 [email protected]

Coaching Mark + Linda Lee

[email protected] [email protected]

Midland Area Rep Nigel Davies

[email protected]

Northern Area Rep Philip Barnes

The Old Rectory Brereton Park, Sandbach Cheshire, CW11 1RY


Eastern/T Valley Rep Godfrey Clark

28 Bassett Gardens, North Weald, Epping, Essex.

01992 523262 07713 871802

[email protected] [email protected]

Western Area Rep John Steels

[email protected]

Southern Area Rep Martin Frary

[email protected]

Sea Series Vacant

Webmaster Neil Hodges (Yellowphin)

[email protected]

Championship Venues Steve Ede

53 Seaview Avenue, West Mersea,Colchester, CO58BY


Committee Member Chris Brown

[email protected]

Scottish Area Rep Kevan Gibb

Crab Apple Neuk, Sea Rd,Drumeldrie, Upper Largo, KY8 6JD


Committee Member Steve Watson (Jury)

[email protected]

GM and Vet Rep Peter Fryer

16 Abinger Avenue, Cheam, Surrey, SM2 7LJ

020 8224 7624 [email protected]

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Solo Specific Summer Committee

Preditorial

Welcome to the Summer edition of Solo Specific, and, with lump in throat, my final editorial. I now join the long list of ex editors who will once again look forward to reading the mag while not knowing what is in it! Southern hotshot Guy Maygar has a background in font creativity and clearly enjoys his Solo sailing so will be a great edition to the team. Talking of that, we have some new blood on the top table, Andrew Liddington takes the role of Honourable Treasurer from Dave Walford, Martin Frary becomes Southern Area Rep, Philip Barnes takes over from Nick Hornsby as Northern Rep and Shaun Welsh takes over from Robert Laurie as hand of the King (aka Honourable Secretary). On behalf of the Committee and all the NSCA members may I thank those that are standing down for all your hard work and to those who have stood up to the plate, may I welcome you to, what is, one of the most successful classes in the UK. One man I have not mentioned is Andy Hyland, who has been busy with a sub team working on a re-booted website. Andy has a background in project management and his clear structured process should result in a site which will be much easier to navigate. We will supply some “how to” instructions in the Autumn mag. The Nation’s Cup in Medemblik was held in similar conditions to 2016, bloody cold and generally windy. Max Blom, CEO of Magic Marine has provided very generous sponsorship which includes the 2018 event in Lake Garda and the 2019 event, provisionally booked for Carnac (though our Championship Organiser Steve Ede mentions that communication with the french team is nigh on impossible, so watch this space). The Noble Marine National Championship was, according to the survey monkey result, a success. 90 entries could easily have become 100 but there were some notable absences, I will be chasing these up for apologies! That said, reviews of most of the other mainstream class attendances suggest that we have bucked the trend. Thanks to all our “Race Day sponsors who ensured that all competitors had a chance of taking something home, even if it was not the winners trophy. Some sad news is the passing of Ron Green, Jim Gates and Martin Grounds. These men were our foundations, ensuring fair play off the water as they were “the” Solo Class Measurers in a time when builders were exploring all kinds of innovative ways of making a Solo go quicker. The team also oversaw construction methods that made the Solo stronger which has resulted in the successful class we have today. I, like many long standing members reflect with warmth and some trepidation the measurement day pre-championship when Solos were built in wood. I can close my eyes and visualise Ron, waving one of his purpose marked Ash battens at an offending area of the boat while Jim stood with one hand on waist and other scratching his brow, figuring out how they were going to find a way of making it legal! My father would recollect many times (whenever we were driving to an open meeting) how Martin would actually be able to quote the actual rule number and explanation of the rule that was being broken, while they were on the water racing. The NSCA owe much gratitude to these three men and their role in making the National Solo great. Our commiserations to loved ones.

The AGM at the Nationals was, with no major contentious issues, a cake walk compared to 2016. The minutes are printed out for your consumption, thanks to Rob Laurie for paying attention and taking notes! We still need someone to stand for President at next years AGM as I will definitely be standing down. Unfortunately, serious back issues have come to the forefront of my life and priorities. We will require someone to take on promotion/Video so please stand up and be counted.

Regards to all and fair sailing, Will Loy

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Solo Specific Summer A.G.M

NATIONAL SOLO CLASS A.G.M. MINUTES 10th July 2017, Royal Torbay YC Present:- 46 members in attendance of which 6 were Committee Members 1. Apologies for absence:- D Walford, A Liddington, G Clark, S Townsend, P Whybrow, N Fisher 2. Minutes of the last meeting There were no objections to the previous Minutes 3. Presidents Report Firstly, a warm welcome to Royal Torbay Yacht Club and to the 2017 Noble Marine National Solo UK Championship. It is indeed a pleasure to be standing before you at this, my third Annual General Meeting as Class President, in surroundings befitting of this prestigious event. The AGM is often thought of, as one of the least popular “social events” of the week. Not that we, as a Class could ever be accused of providing wall to wall post race entertainment. A cold beer and then an early night still seem the preferable to fancy dress and a dance. I have known members to fain injury or opt for a visit to the local crochet museum rather than attend, and yet, this meeting really is the pivotal moment in the year, decisions discussed and actioned by like-minded Solo sailors will define the future and health of the boat we all love so your participation is greatly appreciated. I would like to briefly outline the last twelve months since we met in Pwllheli, before we look forward to 2018 and beyond. We had 83 entries at Pwllheli in 2016 and while the competitors certainly did not appreciate the rather long distance and lack of matting for launch and recovery, the club itself was impressive and the staff, helpful and friendly. I would recommend returning to this venue in the future, provided the local council do remove sufficient sand from the ramps. Andy Davis won the title and is here defending this week with rivals including Charlie Cumbley, who won the title here in 2008 in a fleet of 84, sailing 4858. Nine years later the newest boat here is 5764, an incredible 900 builds in 9 years. Unfortunately the 60 Year Celebratory event to be held at Draycote Water in August was cancelled due to the forecast of strong winds, which was fully justified as the prediction held true. We manipulated the Inland Championships to include a Vintage criteria, but this proved a less popular format and was not widely supported. I do believe there is room for a Vintage section within our Open Meeting circuit, but this would rely on volunteers to organise and to be honest, the Committee has enough on its centreboard plate right now. One of the positives to draw from the event was the introduction of a live band for the Saturday evening social and with the draw for Solo 6000, ensured a memorable evening for all, especially for Patrick Burns. Andy Davis was once again dominant, winning all three races on day 1 and the fleet were relieved that day 2 was binned early as the forecasted light winds were realised. I must praise all who attended, despite the poor weather forecast, 79 of you turned up. Your attendance at these major events sends the very bold message to other classes that we are THE Class to race if you want big fleet one design racing. The Inland Championship also served as a platform for members to view an altered National Solo following some month’s serious investigation into possible improvements. A huge thank you to Dave Winder and Steve Denison for chopping up one of their Solos, and also thanks to the Member’s frank views on the version displayed. While the Committee made it quite clear that we would not support the changes, it was made clear that NSCA Members could still put a rule proposal forward at this year’s AGM. With the proposed rule changes put to bed, new boat sales quickly took off which was a big relief to all, especially the builders and to the RYA who receive a boat registration fee. At this event the latest new build is 5764, while at last year’s event it was 5682 and in 2015 it was 5628. There are currently builders with licences, Winder Boats, Ovington Boats, P+B who market the JP hull, moulded by Richard Wagstaff, Kevan Gosling Dinghy Craft, Boatyard at Beer, and Steve Parker Boats who have just applied for licence. I have to say, the modern day Solo is indeed a fabulous product and second hand values remain high with builders unable to keep up with demand. Wooden and composite examples can be bought at a price which really does not justify the work that has gone into them, the lack of free time put aside for maintenance has certainly affected these sales rather than by performance issues. The End of Seasons marked the finale to the North Sails Super Series, and despite re-arranging the event the weather would not play which resulted in cancellation. Andy Davis defended the North Sails Super Series and collected a brand new trophy for his efforts. Chris brown claimed the new North F2 sail and was suitably chuffed. Chris is a worthy winner and did complete nearly all of the events which gave him a better chance than some. Do more events and give yourself a better chance in 2017! Website During December’16 I had correspondence from our Webmaster Paul Dowman that he would be unable to continue to oversee the Solo site and this included hosting it. Paul also admitted that while the site functioned, it was not quite up to the specification that he would consider acceptable. These observations reflected Member’s views which we had taken onboard. Paul put us in touch with Neil Hodges at Yellowphin who specialise in web hosting and more importantly, web design. Committee Member Andy Hyland, who has some knowledge of website use and functionality acted as a conduit to ensure there was a seamless handover from Paul to Yellowphin. Paul agreed to pay back £1500 and this has been actioned. We do pay circa £200 + per month for hosting and maintenance and I am assured that this is the going rate for such a business. The next stage was to take on board all feedback and criticisms of site design and usability and initiate a re-design. Fortunately some of the basic platform created by Paul was in place so Yellowphin, working initially with Andy Hyland, put forward a number of proposals aimed at re-igniting the site’s visuality and usability. Andy has a background in project management and has been able to clearly define what the NSCA site should provide, and has been able to give clear instruction to Neil at Yellowphin. Working with a small sub Committee team, we hope that the new design will reflect the vibrancy and health of the Class. The cost, which we agreed at our last Committee Meeting in April is £5k with the hosting and maintenance fee remaining at approx £200 per month. Andy Hyland provided a brief update – A lot of feedback has been received about the design of the website and not engaging members in use of the forum. A test version of the alterations is shortly be undertaken, with a potential release of the redesign by end of August’17. A request from Gordon Barclay was made that the site send members an email notification when a new forum item was posted, and new for sale items, with the option for members to opt in or out of this central notification. The RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show Another successful show and huge thanks to the Committee and other volunteers for manning the stand. I highlight Andrew Thompson as the show Co-Ordinator who ensured everyone was where they should be and that the three Solos on show were delivered and exhibited without any problems. We intend to reduce the size of the stand in 2018 and show two Solos. Bribery will ensure the right boats are on show!

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The Noble Marine Winter Championships were hosted at Draycote Water. While the forecast was for strong winds with gusts in the 30s, the limit we had set is 33mph and, on the day we did not encounter that bomb on the racecourse. That said, Charlie Cumbley did go for a swim while winning the event so it was a tad breezy. Great effort from the 37 entries and a fine display of heavy weather racing from you guys. While we must keep one eye on wind prediction and safety, we must not get too soft and deter the younger healthier, fitter sailors from racing the National Solo - they are the future. Spring 2017 Committee Meeting The Committee met after racing at the Spring Championship at Oxford. The main point of discussion was how to get funds back up to an acceptable level following two years of spend. Among the “prudent” measures agreed: Magazine - For 2018 the NSCA policy will to offer advertising slots which must be pre-paid before inclusion. We estimate revenue to be between £1300-£1700 which will cover 50% of the cost of publication and postage. Following several years of judging which has proved largely successful in educating the fleet, thanks to Steve Watson, we are cutting back on the “on water umpiring” though we still hope to provide this form of policing at some of the major events including the Inland Championship. I must say I am very pleased to see, largely, fair racing on the water this week, please may it continue. I think Laurence Creaser may disagree and I am still waiting to see what happens when Andy Davis and Chris Brown cross tacks this week. In conclusion, since I have run out of time to type, the National Solo Class continues to flourish with over 90 new hulls built since last July. Members are stepping forward to fill vacant positions and the Committee is at full strength, albeit without a Vice President. Please visit your consciences, discuss with your wives and consider what a great job you could do as future President. 4. Hon. Treasurers Report In the absence of the Hon Treasurer, David Walford, his report was read out by the Class Secretary: After four years as your Treasurer I have decided that now is the right time to step down. During my time in the role matters have changed within the National Solo Class Association, and currently the finances remain in good order which will enable my replacement to take matters forward. Summary 2016 A challenging year for the National Solo Class Association where a trading loss of circa £12,000 is being reported. There are reasons for this loss which are summarised below. In basic terms 'One Off' costs have been incurred during the last year without an understanding of where additional income could have been generated to cover this expenditure. Going forward the Solo Committee have agreed to assess matters fully before additional 'One Off' costs are incurred. The objective being to cover this expenditure from other or additional revenue opportunities. Currently the Reserves maintained are circa £50,000 a reduction from £62,500 in 2015. If losses continue to be reported at this level then the reserves would last for just over 4 years. Overall the National Solo Class Association must operate profitably or break even, and no doubt this will be discussed at future Solo Committee meetings: Membership Numbers: 2016 2015 2014 870 812 963 · It is anticipated that membership numbers will remain stable at circa 860 in 2017. Subscriptions income: 2016 2015 2014 £19,531 £22,262 £22,401 · In 2017 and based upon the increased subscription of £25 this will increase to £21,500. Total income: 2016 2015 2014 £40,303 £43,353 £56,334 · A reducing trend attributable to lower membership numbers & other income sources, despite the increase in recent increased Championship income. Nationals: 2016 – Pwllheli 2015 North Berwick 2014 - Brightlingsea 2013 - Hayling Entrants: 84 Entrants: 70 Entrants: 69 Entrants: 113 £13,845 £9,765 £10,567 £19,010 It should be noted that despite increased income for Pwllheli, this did not cover all costs for the event and a loss of circa £1,000 was incurred. RYA Registration Fees - we have also have seen a reduction in RYA registration fees during 2016 due to fewer new Solos being purchased & registered. This being due to the uncertainty around possible Class Rules changes which subsequently have been addressed. Advertising Income - this has substantially reduced as advertising within Solo Specific Magazines has been paid via donation of sailing equipment as opposed to cash. These items have then used as prizes for members at various Championships. Going forward it has been agreed by the Solo Committee that this stance will change, with all adverts being paid up front in cash. Ongoing costs: 2016 2015 2014 2013 £52,334 £40,241 £39,976 £45,905 · A substantial increase evident for the reasons shown below. Solo Specific Magazine £10,305 - whilst lower than in 2015, income to cover this cost has reduced as shown above. Currently each edition of the Solo Specific Magazine is costing the Association circa £2,500 ie £7.5k to £10k pa depending on the number of editions.

This cannot continue unless a different approach is negotiated going forward. Publicity £4,925 – a substantial increase on the £1,298 in 2015. This relates to advertising within Yachts and Yachting where increased charges are now payable. It is anticipated that in 2017 advertising within this magazine will reduce. Dinghy Show £6,167 – this cost has remained stable at this level for some years, but savings were made in 2017, and a reduced space has been booked for 2018. It is however necessary to have a stand for obvious reasons.

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Solo Nationals £14,843 - another significant increase on the £10,654 in 2015. The increased costs are attributable to higher mileage to Wales, On Water Judge, & Accommodation costs. Costs for the 2017 event have been reviewed & reduced, but it is likely another loss will be incurred. Other Costs £12,651 – up from £6,077 in 2015. A substantial increase but hopefully a 'One Off' occurrence. This does include the cost of 'Solo 6000' £5,691 which was offered to the Solo membership as a 60th Anniversary prize. Also the new Website which was very much needed cost £3,600 although a further upgrade is required in 2017 costing £5,000. · In total an Overall Loss for 2016 of £12k was incurred. The annual membership subscription fee was increased to £25.00 for 2017, but if costs keep increasing perhaps a further rise in future years may be necessary. The Committee continue to produce the excellent Magazine, Website & Facebook for the membership, and fund prizes for the various Series Events across the UK. These are funded from subscriptions, advertising & sponsorship, and in regard to the latter our key sponsorship is Noble Marine Insurance. This relationship has been in place for a number of years, and we wish to thank them for their contribution, which is greatly appreciated by all within the Association. Plans for the future We introduced a Web Collect option for paying subscriptions in 2015, and to date there has been an 80% take up of this option by the membership. In 2016 this was extended to Class Association organised events, and further enhancements are anticipated going forward. The Association website has been redesigned, updated & improved for future use by all members, with a further upgrade for enhancements which will benefit all within the NSCA. In summary 2016 was a challenging year financially, but we have a good foundation in place which must be protected and retained going forward. Finally my apologies for not being in attendance at the AGM, but should anyone have any questions with regards to any financial matters please email the Treasurer. Dave Walford 5. Membership Secretary’s Report The current total Membership stands at 787 (815 at same point last year). The ability for Members to pay by Direct Debit was introduced in March’17, and this is encouraged as will reduce significantly the time spent by the Membership Secretary & Treasurer going forward, as well as avoid members having to make a separate payment when renewing annually. At the request of Members, a reintroduction of Membership Stickers will occur in 2018. 6. Chief Measurers Report I am delighted to report that I have very little to comment this year, but I wish to announce that this will be my last year at Chief Measurer, and I shall step down at the next AGM. I wish to thank everyone who have helped me since I first started in this role, and the friendship within the Class. I am pleased to report that Nick Hornsby has volunteered to stand as my deputy, and will during the coming year learn the ropes on undertaking this role. 7. Election of Officers & Committee President Will Loy Vice President Vacant Hon. Secretary Shaun Welsh Hon. Treasurer Andrew Liddington Membership Secretary Andrew Thompson Championship Secretary Steve Ede Chief Measurer Gordon Barclay Assistant Chief Measurer Nick Hornsby Publicity Will Loy Magazine Editor Guy Mayger Training Co-ordinator Mark & Linda Lee Dinghy Show co-ordinator Andy Thompson Committee Member Chris Brown Committee Member – website Andy Hyland Committee Member Steve Watson Midland Rep. Nigel Davis Southern Rep. Martin Frary Northern Rep. Phil Barnes Western Rep. John Steels Thames Valley Rep. Godfrey Clark Eastern Rep. Godfrey Clark Sea Series Rep. Vacant Scottish Rep. David Parkin Vet/GM Rep. Peter Fryer No names were received from the floor, and a show of hands accepted all proposed. 8. Proposed Rule Amendments 8.1 Proposer: Dutch Solo Class Association: Rule C.5.1 (a) 1 Electronic or mechanical timing devices that do not indicate, transmit or collate data related to wind speed or boat location. The notice of race for an event may amend this rule to permit the use of a watch with additional GPS capability only. The proposal was put forward as Dutch organised sailing events already permit use of GPS watches, and that many modern watches already have GPS capability. Additionally information can be downloaded to show tracking during a race, and is attractive to sailors for coaching purposes.

Comments were made that other UK classes do not allow this equipment, that such watches are costly, and would provide live positioning on start line bias. Watches do not improve boat handling, and sailors would know they are over the line but if not spotted by the Race Committee, would be a breach of the Racing Rules.

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A suggestion was made that a 1 year trial at joint events with the Dutch Solo Class be undertaken to determine if any advantage was provided against non GPS watches.

Vote For the amendment: 4 Against: 35

8.2 Proposer: John Webster Seconded: Will Loy Rule D.9.4 (a) Corrector weights of any material shall be permanently fastened to the aftermost end of the centreboard case, or to the underside of the centre thwart, or a combination of both locations, when the hull weight is less than the minimum requirement. John Webster highlighted that many existing & new dinghy classes do not have correctors showing, as they are unattractive and can propose a safety risk with ropes catching around them. Historically correctors were placed in such a position to penalise builders from building underweight boats. With the change in materials over the years, boats are now produced significantly underweight and correctors are always required, hence the proposal to move them out of direct sight to overcome both issues. Comment was made that builders could easily produce boats to the minimum weight by placing more resin within the boat, but this would slightly increase costs. Comment also made that when capsized, by moving corrector weights to a slightly higher point within the boat, this may make righting harder. There would be no cost to Members in moving current correctors from their current position and re-attaching to under the centre thwart, which would be permitted.

Vote For the amendment: 28 Against: 4

9. Any Other Business9.1 A notice was received from South Caernarvonshire YC who host the Welsh Sea Championships that a required pre-entry level of 40boats will be set for 2018, and if not achieved the event may be cancelled at short notice.9.2 A potential venue for the Nations Cup to be held in Barbados in 2021 was raised by Chris Brown, who provided an indication ofcosts – Transport of boats £200 each within a container, Entry Fee £250, Flights £300+ and accommodation prices varying on standardof hotel etc. The Barbados Tourist Board have been very helpful with details. Andy Davis provided an insight when competing there atthe GP14 Worlds, and feed back from recent OK Worlds, that the sailing area is poor and organisation not good. Agreed Chris Brown tocontinue to make enquiries and report back to the Committee for further review, but other Overseas venues also to be considered.9.3 A concern raised that no on the water Judge was in attendance at this year’s Nationals due to cost. Consensus from Members thatthis should be provided in future event if this increased the entry fee slightly.9.4 Dutch Class Association requested that they be included within future consultation of proposed rule changes and Nation Cup venuesto ensure we are united going forward. The Meeting closed at 9.00pm The Next A.G.M. will be held at Hayling Island SC on Monday23rd July 2018 (subject to confirmation by the Committee)

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The NSCA Committee are investigating Barbados as a possible Nation’s Cup venue

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Solo Specific Summer Feature

My first year in the Solo has been a real rollercoaster ride from the very start. I've experienced life in a solo from pretty much every position in the fleet. I went from racing closely with the likes of Mike Sims across the winter, giving me promise in my eyes for the season ahead, to a few weeks later seeing Mike and others disappear off in front of me at the Spring championships, then to having a few moments at the sharp end of the fleet during this years nationals and everything in between! One of the biggest things I've had to improve on throughout the very steep learning curve are my starts. The Solo start line is probably the most competitive start line I have been on in my sailing experience. At the Springs, with 40 odd boats on a startline that was almost exactly the same length as 40 solos gunwhale to gunwhale, I discovered very quickly that I couldn't start for toffee! With a lot of practice at events throughout the season and by myself on the water, I managed to string a few starts together and get off the line well in Torbay. Various successful sailors have said that 50 percent of the race is over after the start, racing in the solo fleet for this season so far has really hammered that into my head. At Torbay a good start was the difference between a top 10 and a mid fleet result, which I learned the hard way! Before really getting going with solo sailing, I knew fitness and bodyweight needed work. When you look toward the front end of the solo fleet, there are triathlon and ironman competitors, cross fit buffs, fell runners and more. Already at a slight height disadvantage I knew I needed to take my fitness further and to work hard to get heavier! I had a goal weight of 80 kilos in mind, to be heavy enough not to be running out of kicker in 20 knots like I have previously but still light enough to be slippery downwind. I didn't quite hit my goal on either front (beer and women are far more interesting than spending every hour not at work in the gym..) but got pretty close which seemed to help a lot in the medium to heavy breeze. However towards the end of the nationals my thinking on bodyweight changed... After being rolled on more than one occasion downwind by Browny and Bonner, clearly bodyweight wasn't the most important factor in being slippery! Understanding the North P-2 and the solo rig is another thing that I 've developed throughout the season so far. Previously I would've read a tuning guide and stuck to it religiously by way of boat set up, but as my understanding has developed, so has my sailing. I spent a lot of time on the water by myself doing a lot of looking up at the sail trying to find what works and what doesn't rather than just thinking "I'm going upwind now, must pull kicker on". Now, the main things I'm looking at are the top tell tail and boom position. Until I'm fully hiking, keeping the top tell tail flying using mainsheet tension is probably my main consideration. The margin for error is pretty small here, one or two clicks of the ratchet too many can completely stall it! Once I'm happy with

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ZERO to HERO Laurence Creaser on his first season in the Solo.

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Solo Specific Summer Feature

mainsheet tension, I'm adjusting my boom position with the traveller to keep it on the inside edge of the side tank. As breeze comes up I use more mainsheet tension so end up with the traveller closer to centre, as it drops less tension and traveller down. As soon as I'm hiking I start moving to using kicker with the traveller almost bang on the centreline. As it gets really windy, I have to make sure I remember to let a little kicker off before a tack... I had numerous captain splash moments after becoming wedged under the boom as many of you saw and enjoyed! My biggest gains so far I think have come from improvements in my downwind sailing, both reaching and on the run. Opening the sail up enough required more kicker off than I previously realised and made the boat so much easier to steer around waves, while leaving a little Cunningham on in the bigger breeze reaching helped me to not be quite so overpowered when I had a big weight disadvantage. Wave sailing is something that has significantly improved for me through spending plenty of time practicing and getting it wrong to work out why was right, and spending some time working with Charlie to get my technique a lot further up to

speed. After this season so far I have two particular favourite things about solo sailing. First is the boat itself. While there are differences in setup from person to person and we all like slightly different things by way of boat fit out and sails, a solo is a solo. As we saw at the nationals, nearly every prominent sail maker in the class won races, nearly every possible hull you could buy was in the top 10, with people of all shapes and sizes sailing them. To me, that is what true one design sailing is about. The class puts the onus on the sailor, the best man wins rather than the arms race that can happen as we see in other classes. The second thing is the people. When I mentioned to people from my old club and various others that I was going solo sailing, the vast majority would come out with something along the lines of "a bit young aren't you? That's an old mans boat!". How wrong they were! While the average age of the class may be higher than others, you wouldn't know it. We all race hard on the water and to my surprise party pretty hard afterwards as well.. Surprise of the week for me was discovering Doug Latta loves a good jagerbomb! The banter both on and off the water has been great fun and has again surprised me, especially when compared to other fleets I've sailed in. The fleet also has an incredible depth to it.If you count the sheer number of World, European and National titles won at various times by various sailors in the fleet, it shows just how much talent there is sailing solos currently, which is another thing that really draws me to solo sailing and why I've enjoyed it so much. If you'd told me at the beginning of the year that I'd be holding my own among some of these big names at the nationals I would have assumed you were joking. I've really enjoyed my first season in solo sailing. I've sailed in some great places, in a great boat, against and with some great people. There have been some frustrations and some tough moments but all of it has been great racing and this season has improved my sailing hugely, which is what its all about! So thank you to everybody in the class for making me feel so welcomed into the fleet and for some fantastic racing, long may it continue.

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UK National Championship 2017 Royal Torbay Yacht Club July 9-14

90 competitors descended on RTYC to contest the 2017 National Championship, sponsored by Noble Marine and with additional sponsorship from Lennon Race Wear, Milanes Foils, P+B, Rooster Sailing, Allen and HISC.

I did plan to race but after two days realised my back had other ideas so I turned my attention to videoing the weeks racing. Normally, you would now be reading my reports but, in a change to the way we communicate I have instead provided you with the Solo Channel youtube links. I hope that the video reports give you a true feeling of the Championship.

Day 1 https://youtu.be/SpVoj-6OXJ0 Day 2 https://youtu.be/AJPYeK_Qbww Day 3 https://youtu.be/BItxXNBue3Y Day 4 Race 7 https://youtu.be/HN-VPZ2kx2k Day 4 Race 8 https://youtu.be/eJXVaMcllBQ

Day 5 Olly Wells Interview https://youtu.be/YyQSWiPBQvk Day 5 https://youtu.be/kmVGyEw0aqY

Day 6 Race 11 https://youtu.be/Xn8qSlc6rlI Day 6 Race 12 https://youtu.be/DBMcvdFcEd0

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Solo Specific Summer Report

Mighty Oak Solo Eastern Area Championship at Leigh-on-Sea Sailing Club It was a bright sunny Saturday morning when the first of 28 Solos arrived at Leigh on Sea SC for the 'Mighty Oak' Eastern Area Championships, a moderate breeze from the south west was blowing; all that was missing was water! The usual Leigh mud flats were much in evidence beyond the small sandy beach, but as the racers rigged and enjoyed the tea, coffee and bacon rolls the tide quickly covered the mud to allow the race team to get afloat with the marks to lay the course for race 1. After a short spell with the AP flying while the marks were juggled to get them in the best positions, it was time for three quick races before the tide would leave the mud exposed again. To persuade the fleet to stay behind the start line the RO used 'I' for this and subsequent starts. This was successful and the First Sub was not needed to call a General Recall. At the start of race 1, 5300 Doug Latta managed to creep over the line early and was asked to return around the Committee Boat end of the line. Ewan Birkin-Walls, 5738, quickly moved to the front of the fleet, behind him Andrew Boyce filled second place, with Steve Ede in third at the end of the first round. The wind had strengthen to a steady 24 knots which gave several racers problems at the gybe mark, a number found that they were having a spell of inspection of their centreboards and the bottom of the boat. At the end of the third round the Race Officer flew 'S', Ewan maintained his first place followed by Mathew Frary in second, having worked up from 6th at the first round, and Steve Ede in third.

!Heading for mark 4 during the Solo Eastern Championship at Leigh-on-Sea - photo © Dave Smith A quick turn round was planned for race 2, but 2 mins into the start sequence a squall caused the Committee Boat to drag anchor. A quick decision was made to stop the sequence and to reposition the Committee Boat and the start line. Another 'I' flag start saw the fleet away cleanly and Vince Horey took the lead with Ewan Birmingham-Walls chasing him in second. These positions remained the same until the hooter at the end of three rounds. Third place was a tussle between Steve Ede and Mathew Frary with Mathew getting the 3rd place. The fresh wind was reducing the fleet numbers, with only 22 of the original 28 starting the last race. Ewan moved to the front and established a good lead which he held for all three rounds. Mathew Frary finished in second after working through the fleet from his first round position of sixth. Steve Ede finished the series with a third place ahead of Andrew Wilson. Overall the Championship was won by Ewan Birkin-Walls, Vince Horey was second and Mathew Frary was third. Jonny Wells from Essex YC was the first boat with a sail number under 4000, while Nick Hann with the oldest boat in the fleet was the first Leigh on Sea SC boat. Steve Corbet pic; Dave Smith

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Guy Maygar talks about Lennon Racewear

“I’ve been using the Thermalite DRYSYSTEM Long John and Thermalite 1.5mm Top since the beginning of the 2017 season and have been very impressed with the quality of the suits and their performance. This in more the mid-‐range gear from Lennon Racewear but has served me well in colder condiKons with a thermal base layer top underneath and then switching the 1.5mm top out for the 1mm Superlite when things have warmed up making it very versaKle. With great ankle, wrist and neck seals you basically stay dry inside with the plush lining keeping you warm. The lining is also super quick to dry which is a huge plus when sailing mulK-‐day events. If you’d like a look at the gear catch me at Chichester Race Week or later season Solo events. Guy 5691”

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Solo Specific Summer 17 Product Feature

Guy has had a very successful season including sixth at the Magic Marine Nation’s Cup in Medemblik. Lennon Race Wear kept Guy nice and snug despite a very inclement 5 degrees and with the flexibility that the Lennon kit provides, recorded his best major result ever!

2017 Results

1st Nation’s Cup1st Southern Area Championship2nd National Championships

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Solo Specific Summer

Nation’s Cup 2017

I sit here in the confines of my hotel room, the dulcet tones from the Bee Gees tribute band still ringing in my ears. The sneaky Dutch bar team having lulled us into a sense of security not dissimilar to a clubhouse in the lee of Everest. Those small beers do mount up and the sight of Cumbley, Bourne and especially Burton strutting their stuff to "How Deep is My Love" is something I cannot un-see. National Solo enthusiasts may look at their screens with confusion but relax, the Solo athletes had gone to sleep many hours earlier, their bodies hydrated and in hibernation for tomorrow's racing. The demographics of the Solo and OK classes may be similar but the Solo guys are far more sensible. For me the day has been full of ups and downs and not just due to the steep chop of the IJsselmeer, miscommunication to both fleets resulting in no rescue craft other than the mark laying ribs to attend to 100 + sailors. I have to ask if it is not the responsibility of the club to provide adequate cover to host a regatta of such size? While the relaxed manner of the Dutch is admirable, one has to question the wisdom of offering to host a championship event and, in the case of the OK dinghy, international point scoring one, with no specified rescue craft on the water. Luckily, a club rib and, at potential cost to both associations, a private rib were procured, but had to be manned by the media guy (me) and my able crew Fiona, while an OK sailor had to forego his regatta in the name of safety. On to the racing before I force the keys of my Macbook through the formica laminated desktop. Race 1 The OK fleet were first away and a full ten minutes past before the Solo start was signalled. Port bias resulted in a general recall and, I believe a black flag. The second start was less biased and the OK fleet were just behind the Solo fleet as they headed upwind in the 12-13 knot breeze. Sims, who had actually started quiet tardily, worked some shifts to round with Andy Davis just on his inside, followed by Andy Tunnicliffe and Kevan Gibb. Dutch hotshot Peerke Kortekaas rounded just behind but lost out as a gust with his name on it nearly sent him in. Davis and Sims continued to tussle with Davis appearing to have an advantage downwind while Sims took control upwind. Tunnicliffe and Gibb held position as the 62 other competitors battled with cold, the Ijsselmeer and each other for bragging rights at the bar. With triangle, sausage completed Davis set off up the last beat allowing Sims to tack off.A few tacks and many metres later Davis still held the lead but, choosing the pin end of the shortened course, over stood, allowing Sims, with the guille of a Ferrari tactician, to undercut him to the line. Tunnicliffe, Gibb and Guy Magyer completed the top five. Race 2 With the timing of a circus ring trapeze artist (where have you heard that before) the Solo start for race two coincided with the OK fleet reaching the leeward mark...you could not make it up. Sims led in from the right with Tom Lonsdale, Ian Hopwood and Olly Davenport in pursuit. Chris Brown, Tunnicliffe and Nigel Davies led the chasing pack with the wind a steady 12 knots. Davis was in eighth with plenty of places to make up. Sims continued to control the race and while Davis recovered to second he was never really threatening to the lead. Davenport revelled in the chop and recorded third infant of the consistent Tunnicliffe. M. Gifford and Guy Magyer completed a talented top six. Race 3 In a textbook copy of race two the fleet were released to coincide with the OK fleet as I shook my head in dismay and distain. We like the OK fleet but not that up-close and personal. Kortekaas hit the left harder than a snap election and rolled over the fleet to earn the President's Beer Voucher for first to the windward mark, an award he reminded me of when we later met in the bar. Lonsdale and Arnd Wolvetang were next but the latter was BFD so would have a sad face that evening. Lonsdale himself had been BFD in race two, the Solo bow maybe blunter than an OK but it still goes faster than you would like sometimes. Brown was followed closely by Davis who finally decided to arrive to the party and surged into the lead by the leeward mark. From there he controlled the two lap race with Sims surging into second at the gun. I have purposely used surge twice and now three times, the result of far too much beer and merriment, care of Magic Marine who have so generously sponsored our social programme as well as providing free prizes.So, Mike Sims is the Solo event leader with Davis and Tunnicliffe ready to pounce should he falter. Guy Magyer is an impressive fourth with Davenport and Brown next.

The fleet awoke to a brisk Easterly breeze with no sign of an increase in temperature. Tourism to this area has certainly flourished but there is no 'Med' in Medemblik this morning. I motored out to the race area, the wind strength was at around 15 knots with a very steep wave pattern and I use the phrase "pattern" with a caveat that it include "erratic" as there was not one I could see. Race 4 With the Solo fleet away under the black flag after a general recall there was a big split to both sides of the beat. Ian Hopwood, who loves the challenges of racing when the going gets tough nailed the beat to led in from the left. Olly Wells, Nigel Davies and Graham Cranford Smith were next around as those who had chosen the left of the course worked their way up, headed all the way. Oli Davenport, Andy davis and event leader Mike Sims finally rounded 13th, 14th and 17th with work to do. Wells had taken the lead by the bottom mark, the new P&B / JP Solo proving it can handle the waves with it's fine entry bow. It the top mark Wells continued to assert while Hopwood and Martin Frary held off the pack. Sims had performed miracles to get back up to 4th with Davenport up to 7th. Davies though was finding it harder and was still in 14th. At the

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Solo Specific Summer Championship

gun it was Wells with the bullet from a fast finishing Sims with Hopwood topping out the top three. Davenport and Frary completed a talented lineup. Davies had moved up to 7th but this he would hope to be a discard by end of trading.

Race 5 The sun hinted at joining the party and sailors were seen peeling back some outer layers of sailing apparel. Wells must have removed at least three balaclavas himself but this may have been just so those who witnessed his victory in the previous race would actually believe it was him and not a ringer. The wind was still holding at around 15 knots and the fleet were away cleanly at the first attempt. Wells, Davenport and Sims all powered out of the middle the line while Davis chose the left. The fleet were split across the course but it was man of the moment, Hopwood who once again stamped his authority on the first beat and gained a second "President's Beer token" for his skill. Chris Brown, Oli Davenport and Andy Davis were in pursuit with Kevan Gibb having a good race in 5th. Davis pushed the overdrive button and was in the lead by the bottom mark and extended over the pack. Clearly enjoying the generous waves and making use of just about all of them. Davenport also excelled and with Hopwood holding station, these three stayed in a tighter formation than the red Arrows for the remainder of the race. Tom Lonsdale broke through Brown to take 4th with Brown completing the top five. Mike Sims had his worse result but 6th was still a valiant result from where he had rounded on lap 1.

Wells was seen nursing his Solo back to shore for repairs which later turned out to be a failed splice to the kicker system. He was though back out in time for race 6. Race 6 The sun was out and with the wind failing to spoil the party it was Medemblik at it's finest. Peerke Kortekaas and a group including Davis came out of the pin end while Sims was unsighted. At the top mark it was Lonsdale who would get the free beer while Gibb, Davis and Davenport pursued him down the reaches. Kortekaas, Andy Tunnicliffe and Guy Magyar completed the top seven as the fleet powered upwind. Davis was once again in control by the end of lap two and loose covered Davenport to take another bullet and see him top the leader board overnight, ripping the lycra event leader rash vest from sims grasp. Davenport himself had a good day at the office and 2nd would see him move up to 3rd overall. Sims recovered to 4th and 2nd overall from Lonsdale who's 3rd would keep him in the top four. Gibb held for a top five finish but has some hefty scores to count while Tunnicliffe's lack of time in the Solo this year is showing by his own very high standards. Still, 5th overall and still two races to go there is all to play for.

Off the water Brakeboer was the chosen bar to host the Magic Marine prize draw and it also served as the OKs shindig though, they were so quiet we hardly knew they were there. Magic Marine had supplied us with an amazing array of sailing kit and I can testify to the quality of the product as the box it came in was very heavy. Sailors were full of praise for the gifts they were lucky enough to receive so huge thanks to Max Blom, Clare Blom, Linda Bomhof and the whole team at Magic Marine who have made this a memorable event for the Solo fleets of the UK and Holland. The Dutch Association also provided us with a huge batch of vintage event T shirts which were happily received by more winners than a chicken dinner. So, we go into Super Sunday with two races remaining and a pleasant forecast for racing. It appears a two horse race for Davis and Sims with Davenport seeking a podium finish in this "Major". Behind him it is closer than a shave with a new razor so please look out for a short report tomorrow and then a full round up early next week.

All was set for an exciting finale to the Magic Marine Nation's Cup, hosted by the Royal Hollandia Yacht Club. The athletes stood onshore, stretching and triggering slow and fast twitch fibres for the day's racing. The elite sailors headed of to their 49er FXs so the watching group of Solo sailors disbanded to their race craft. Out on the water the conditions were conducive for a splendid final two races of the regatta, 15 knots and some nice waves to work with. Race 7 The fleet were released and, like the local women here, the PRO was taking no nonsense and brandished the black flag from the get go. The sailors were also keen to get the job done and with ferries to catch and Amsterdam and Rotterdam to negotiate, started impeccably. At the top mark it was the guys coming in from the left who benefited and Tunnicliffe, who had started right on the pin rounded first with Davenport, Davis, Brown and Lonsdale completing the top five. Sims was not where he needed to be and once again found himself having to mount a comeback of Oracle proportions. Davenport revelled in the conditions and took control while Davis moved up to second, consolidating his grip on the title. Sims was awesome downwind, his dynamic style and hunger to win seeing him move up to 4th but at the gun after the three laps was Davenport from Davis and Tunnicliffe. It would now require a Sims win and a Davis disaster to deny the Nation's Cup defender the auld cup.

Race 8 Pin end favoured and with a black flag and shattered bodies, the brave would be stepping up for this final race. Davenport was on the pin with Sims almost in his lap to windward, it this moment in time there are yet to be results posted but lets hope no names were taken. First to the mark was Nigel Pybus with Brown and Nigel Davies completing

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an amazing Draycote Water 1-2-3. Sims was in fourth and guaranteed to improve by the bottom mark. Davis was seventh and, by my on water calculation, if Sims won would need to finish in 6th! Sims and Brown continued their battle as the sun shone and wind held at 12 knots but worryingly for Sims, Davis had moved into the top four. At the gun it was Brown who recorded his first Championship race win with Sims second by the slimmest of margins. Davis finished third from M.J Gifford and Guy Magyer.

So, Andy Davis has successfully defended the Magic Marine Nation's Cup he won here last year. Mike Sims is second and must not be disheartened as he was right on the pace, just let down by some first beat tactics. Oliver Davenport completes the podium with Andy Tunnicliffe and Chris Brown filling the top five. Marleen Gaillard is first lady in 34th from Clare van der Does in 36th. Finally, Peerke Kortekaas is the first Dutch boat in 10th overall. Thanks to the Dutch Solo Class Association and to Royal Hollandia Y.C. but special thanks to all competitors for attending and making this such a successful championship. Thanks to Magic Marine for their generous sponsorship, and for this initiative to connect the hidden classes. Noble Marine are our class insurer, please support them like they support us.

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Solo Specific Summer 17 Membership

A Year In The Life of the Membership Secretary

I thought that it may be an interesting exercise to demystify some of the ‘behind the scenes’ work of this aspect of your NSCA committee, and also to seek your views. The Membership Secretary has an important role in ensuring that members can both join and renew their membership a manner that is easy to them. Recently this has seen the move from paper based renewals to predominantly online, as well as offering new payments methods such as Online Banking and Direct Debits, although paper forms and cheque payments are still available. The working year of the membership secretary actually starts around the end of October when new members are also afforded membership for the following season. This begins the process of receiving payments from over 800 members and ensuring these payments are attributed to the right person. January and February are the busiest months for this process. During the year the committee will have discussed and agreed the membership fee and membership categories for the following year. These changes will be uploaded to Webcollect and also paper forms updated. You can expect to see these changes up on the site from November. For all current members an email inviting you to renew your membership will go out towards Christmas along with a New Year reminder. For those of you with a security conscious mind (all of you I hope!) please note that this email will be addressed to you personally and also contain your Solo membership number. This email will not ask for direct payment! Instead you are requested to follow a link to our WebCollect webpage and renew your membership there. Please note I use the term ‘Renew’. You should always renew your current subscription and not take out a new one unless you are changing your membership category.

So what happens when you renew? The Membership Secretary has an administration page on Webcollect where they can see the orders as they arrive. If you are renewing and paying by direct debit (new in 2017) then no further action is required by either member or Secretary – simples. If you are paying by Bank Transfer then the member will receive an email asking them to log into their online banking and make a transfer to the NSCA account of the required amount. This is NOT an automatic process and does require the member to send this transfer! Please note the email will ask you to use a special payment reference number. This is looks like 8 random characters. This reference number is unique to each member and if used allows us to automatically correlate your payment to your account. Please use it – it makes the life of the membership secretary so much easier – imagine if you will trawling through five pages of statements all with similar payments, looking for one that has a reference ‘Solo Renewal’ or similar??? It happens So, the use of Bank Transfer is highly encouraged as it simplifies life and ‘should’ ensure your renewal goes smoothly. The final option is to send in a cheque. In this case your email will ask you to send a cheque written out to the NSCA and the address to send it to. Please note, and write, the correct account name!! Processing cheques is of course a manual process both for the Membership Secretary and for the Hon. Treasurer. Therefore renewals using cheque payments, whilst accepted, (and we would rather this payment than not at all), please use the previous two methods where possible. Now for those that still prefer offline (paper) renewals a renewal form can either be downloaded from the website or, if an email address is not registered online, then a paper form will be sent out to you by post. The next few months from Spring to Summer mainly deal with sending out the odd reminder to those that have not renewed, and chasing payments. Even now in July I am still chasing payments from April !! Please, please, please, if I send you a payment reminder can you get back to me! Most likely it is that the system has not recognised your bank transfer correctly, so let me know when you made it and I can manually check the statement. But as I mentioned before, I do not relish the task of trawling through 800 payments to find them without a date to go by. Anything else? Well yes, the Membership Secretary is also (currently) looking after any orders of the Solo ‘Training and Tuning Guide’ DVD’s, ‘Sailing the National Solo’ booklet and car stickers. Again by necessity this is a manual process. Orders will only be sent out once payment is received. Processing of these orders is normally done once every week or two. I know everyone is very understanding of delays in processing orders but it bears reminding that this is a voluntary role and needs to fit around normal work schedules etc. That being said I have no objection to a chasing email asking where the order is J. So who has access to my details? Full access is restricted to a subset of the committee on a ‘needs to know’ basis. We do however distribute some details of current members such as names and boat numbers to your regional series reps in

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Solo Specific Summer 17 Membership

order they can check only NSCA members are given places on the regional series and championships. Also the training organisers get this list so they know they are training members. Details will never be shared e.g. with our sponsors, unless we have your explicit permission to do so. But what about transom stickers and membership cards? Well the transom stickers will be back by popular demand in 2018! Keep an eye out for it in your Spring Solo Specific magazine (it will not be sent separately). Membership cards were only ever sent out to new members and in the modern online world where we can more easily check your membership these are still deemed redundant. It’s possible they may make a come back if I can find a way to send them out with no added workload. Your membership number does not change across years and can also be found on the Webcollect site as your ‘Unique Id’

Now over to you, what would make your life easier in the renewals process? · Do you want credi t card payments? · Would you l ike automatic renewals if paying by credit card or Direct Debit? · Do you have any suggestions on anything else such as membership categories? Please let me know w i t h a n e m a i l t o [email protected] if you have any quest ions or suggestions. Many thanks and I look forward to your 2018 renewal!

Andrew Thompson Membership Sec.

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Solo Specific summer 17 Area Report

We are now in the Summer break after holding seven of the eleven events in this years ‘Dinghy Rope Midland Series’. I’m pleased to say the series is going well, with smoothly run events and a good average turnout of 26 boats at each event which is higher than last year.

This year the sponsors of the series are; Title sponsors, Dinghy Rope, they will give the first 23 series qualifiers a £25 gift voucher to use in their online shop. Dinghy Rope sell all types of rope, chandlery and clothing so there will be plenty to spend your voucher on.

Fernhurst Books are sponsoring the Vintage Boat prize. At each event the first boat with a sail number under 5000 receives a free Fernhurst Book.

There will also be series prizes provided by the Solo Class Association.

As our last event is after the Solo End of Season this year the Midland series prize giving will be held at the Winters in Feb 18, hosted by Northampton Sailing Club. Northampton have been a great supporter of the series sending the most boats to events and have a big home fleet so I feel it is fitting to hold the prize giving at their club.

Northampton are the current holders of the team prize and look strong to retain it again this year. Barnt Green have been sending three boats to some events which is great to see and they could push Northampton for the team prize. Their Open is back in the series this year and it will be nice to see a good turnout at their beautiful club.

The Midlands area has a large number of sailing clubs with Solo fleets and a number of them want to hold Opens but as I want to keep the series at around 10 events a year means not all clubs can have their Open included in the series. This

Pic; Malcolm Lewin

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Solo Specific summer 17 Area Report

year I will again create a League table at the end of the season to decide which clubs will be included for the 2018 season. The League will be calculated in the same way as previous years but with some minor adjustments around the average turnout so it reflects the changes in popularity of the Solo Dinghy at different clubs. I will email the details to the fleet captains over the Summer. Qualifying for the series helps your home club stay in the series.

We have been treated to some really tasty food at our events this year and it’s nice to see clubs offering more than just good racing and showcases some good bakers in our region. I believe some could challenge the bakers of Felpham who put on a real show for the Southern this year.

Now onto the racing, getting to the top of the fleet becomes more challenging each year as the quality of the sailors goes up and the events get bigger. Each event so far has had a different winner. Having the ability to sail in all wind conditions and on different sized lakes will be the key to winning the overall series. Currently Chris Brown is in first place followed by Ian Ingram and myself Nigel Davies in third.

Stand out moments so far this year include the big fleets at Carsington and Draycote, the high winds of Northampton and heat at Shustoke. Please see the Midland Area pages on the Solo Web site, which has more details and reports of the events held so far.

2017 Dinghy Rope Midland Series: (top ten after 7 events) 1st Chris Brown 2nd Ian Ingram 3rd Nigel Davies 4th Bob Suggitt 5th Richard Blunt 6th Paul Bottomley 7th Brian Fisher 8th Oli Wells 9th Kev Hall 10th David Badger Richard Blunt in 5th is leading the Fernhurst Books Vintage Boat Category.

I have been the Midland Area Rep for three years and feel its time to start looking for my replacement. I will be prepared to run the Area for one more year but then I intend to stand down. The series really doesn't take much time run so if there is anyone out there who is interested in taking on the role please come forward.

The Midland events and information are posted on the Solo web page and on Facebook group ‘Solo Midland Area’ so please take a look and come and join us, please remember we are in the middle of the country so none of you have far to travel! I have just been informed by Barnt Green that their water level is very low and therefore their Open Meeting, scheduled for the 16 September has been cancelled.

Nigel Davies. Solo Midland Area Rep

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Congratulations to Bill Hutchings, Charles Stimpson and Doug Latta who won free entry to next years National Championship, courtesy of HISC.

Venue for the 2018 National Championship

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Solo Specific Summer 17 Area Report

Solo Western Area Report

So, we are already just past the halfway point of the Western Area Series and thus far it has been a good season. The entries have been up and down and the pattern of few people travelling to events continues, last years’ series winner, who shall remain nameless, has yet to surface! We have had 103 entrants with an average of 17 per event. With wind strengths from gentle at Dittisham to 35+ knot gusts at Sutton Bingham. It was great to see TATA SC re-enter the series with the first event of the season, their lake is excellent with loads of open water and no trees / obstructions to spoil the wind. After 6 events only two helms have so far attended the 5 required to qualify for the series with John Steels leading on 15 points from Vernon Perkins on 36 points, there is however still plenty of time left for qualification so please get those dinghies on the road! See below for the results. We have just launched a Facebook Group – Solo Western Area – Hopefully this will provide easier / better communication for us all to read and interact with.

I have been (and will continue to be supported by Vernon Perkins) as we get the show on the road.

The page has been set up as a Public Group, with all the Western Area reps having editing rights to simplify publishing and enrol members at their respective clubs.

It there are any questions regarding the use of this site please contact myself or Vernon – from my limited exposure it is fairly self-explanatory / intuitive so if in doubt have a go and remember it is OUR facebook so together we can make the most of it so please join, participate add your photos, club news and involve the solo sailors at your home club.

Hope to see some of you at the the remaining 2017 Western Area Opens the dates are as follows Frampton SC - 23rd September Teign Corinthian SC – Saturday 30th September South Cerney SC – Saturday 7th October Western Championships – Salcombe YC - 28-29th October

John Steels

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Solo Specific Summer Area Report

Southern Area Series Update

With 6 events done the Southern Series is hotting up. Some notable performances from Martin Frary, Doug Latta, Tim Lewis and Richard Lovering have underlined the quality we have in the South of the UK. Broadwater S.C opened the series. Unfortunately the forecast of zero wind was accurate and the event was abandoned. The Southern Area Championship was this year moved to Felpham Y.C. and the 25 sailors were treated to some fantastic, albeit exhausting racing. Day one of the event provided enough breeze and wave action to keep everyone, including the rescue team busy. Andy Davis held off Martin Frary for the win and is already the strong favourite to secure the North Sails Super Series for the third year running. Solo newcomer Richard Lovering finished third, just ahead of local boy Guy Magyar, who wrote a fantastic report with photos supplied by Bill Brooks.

Bough Beech S.C attracted 24 entries with Steve Ede taking the win, his 1-1-2-3 pipping Tim Lewis, 1-1-3-5 and Jarvis Simpson. It is always tight racing at Bough Beech and with a nice force 4 must have been great fun for everyone.

Chichester Y.C. was unfortunately blighted with light winds which also varied substantially in direction. Ironically, the previous 5 days had been wall to wall sunshine and fresh winds from the south. Fraser Hayden mastered the conditions for the win ahead of Andrew Boyce and Patrick Fell, a 1-2-3 for Papercourt S.C., well done and great effort.

The double header of Dell Quay Y.C. and Porchester Y.C. June 10-11 provided champagne conditions for both events. These venues offer some superb sailing and the challenge of sea sailing would test all competitors. Dell Quay was won by Iain McGregor with Doug Latta second from Tim Lewis. Iain McGregor completed the clean sweep with the win at Portchester, Tim Lewis second and Jonathan Otter third.

Frensham Pond has a long history associated with the Solo class, I won this event many years ago and the trophy is riddled with famous sailors of the past. Fraser Hayden added his name to the trophy from Vince Horey and Andrew Boyce. So McGregor and Hayden have 2 bullets each with the consistent Boyce and Lewis right in the mix with 5 events still to play for.

Spinnaker September 2 Mengeham Rythe September 23 Hayling Island September 24 Chipstead October 7 Papercourt October 15 (revised date)

Martin Frary has agreed to take over the Southern Series in 2018 so look out for him on the circuit.

Will Loy

Pics; Chris Raymont

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Hayling Island Sailing Club welcomed a whooping 63 National Solos to contest the prestigious Nigel Pusinelli Trophy over the weekend of 3-4 June. This event was originally created as the "Pre-Championship" with the emphasis on providing some last minute practice on the sea. WPNSA had been the chosen venue for the previous 8 years but with next years National Championship returning to HISC, this event would also serve as a taster for 2018. HISC have a long and illustrious relationship with the Solo class and with over 60 Solos in the dinghy park, can be relied upon to provide a healthy home entry and some seriously strong talent. It has been a really good season for sailing conditions, I have missed some great events with sun and good breezes and though the allure of sun drenched beaches in Greece was some comfort, HISC combined force 4-6 winds, unbroken sunshine and a huge swell to twist the jealousy knife a little deeper into my back. Add 43 visitors to the local fleet of 20 and you have an event that some other classes would consider as a National Championship. The calibre at HISC is high, just walking around the club you can smell the talent and see the racing confidence in the eyes of even the youngest sailor. Like moths to the light, this also attracts visitors, keen to test their skills against the best the club can muster. With Solos rigged and sailors oiled up the fleet launched into a building W-SW breeze and headed across the famous Hayling Bar to the race course. For anyone who has yet to experience this, they should do, as once done will forever be remembered. The sail out also provides a perfect warm-up for the days racing and any pond sailor will, by the time they reach the start area, be ready for the bumpy stuff.

Draycote Water based sailors Chris Brown and Nigel Davies did a split tack test before racing commenced (a good reason to get out to the course early) and noted that an inshore route to the top mark would present less tide. With spray tops donned as the wind strength increased to a max of 25 knots, the fleet set off in the building sea state. Full rake on, full hiking on and in fact, full everything on! Charlie Cumbley owned the event with five straight bullets but that does not tell the whole story as he admitted that he could not start for toffee! Fortunately he showed formidable downwind technique and was able to overhaul early race leaders, including Chris Brown, Paul Childs and Olly Davenport. The trick upwind was, to quote Chris Brown, "start at the pin end, get a clean lane, tack on the lay line. Sometimes it was hard to tack in front of the starboard boats but if you cleared them you were in the top 5 at the mark." Downwind was another story and the key according to Cumbley was "keep the boat flat out planing and not being too greedy on the waves. For the Solo readers reference, Cumbley's boat (Winder/North) set up was:

• Heel position; 3070mm• Rake from mast tip to top of transom; 5.94m• Shrouds set so tight 5mm from front of gate.• Plenty of kicker upwind and centreboard well up when going upwind to foot fast through the waves.

Cumbley opted to use a development polyester 3DL for day 2 and this will hopefully be the sail design for 2018. Commenting on his race 5 win, "After a freak gust knocked me over just after the start I filled up and rounded pretty deep so worked my wotsits off to get back and finally get Browny on the last reach to the finish! Particularly enjoyable that one but I then took the opportunity for a breather and an early shower. Browny had been getting quicker through the day so not surprised he won the last race...." Chris Brown commented, "I thought I had a good chance of winning as Charlie was some distance back. I led the pack until the last two reaches, behind me Charlie hard worked hard and was on my transom. I kept him off me the first

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Nigel Pusinelli Trophy at Hayling Island Sailing Club

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reach but on the last leg he pushed me way high of the mark and we ended up running to the finsh line where he used his skills to find a wave and under take me." Brown won race 6 and commented, "Last race was again pin end with the usual suspects at the top mark again. This time Ian Hopwood, the capsize king lead the race and revelled in the conditions. I was wondering if he would inspect the centerboard on his first gybe, it was now force 6 with some sizeable waves. Unfortunately he stayed upright! The 2nd lap we were pulling away from the fleet, a quick shout to Ian as we were going way past the lay line to the top mark... He tacked, let go of his tiller and went swimming. Sorry Ian, but I did wave as I passed him! I kept an eye on Olly Davenport and held for the race 6 win. I have been using a new CBCoverStore polish and maybe that made the difference as my results have improved."

So, as we set up for the Noble Marine UK Nationals there have been some notable performances from Cumbley, Olly Davenport in the P&B powered JP/P&B hull who finished second overall and has catapulted him into the top ranks of the fleet, Chris Brown who scored the last race bullet in his North F2 powered Winder and locals Nick Bonner (Winder/Doyle Sails) and new Solo convert Richard Lovering, both who upheld the HISC tradition of excellence! I can throw in around another 35 names who will be looking to put themselves into the top 15, Andy Davis, Mike Sims, Andy Tunnicliffe, Martin Frary and Steve Ede among them. It should be an unmissable event and full of drama and excitement. Thanks to all who attended and to HISC for hosting an excellent event. Thanks also to Noble Marine who keep us on the water 24/7. More photos can be found at haylingisc.smugmug.com/Open-Events/2017/Solo-Open-Meeting

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Full results on HISC website

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Chris Brown commented, "I thought I had a good chance of winning as Charlie was some distance back. I led the pack until the last two reaches, behind me Charlie hard worked hard and was on my transom. I kept him off me the first reach but on the last leg he pushed me way high of the mark and we ended up running to the finsh line where he used his skills to find a wave and under take me." Brown won race 6 and commented, "Last race was again pin end with the usual suspects at the top mark again. This time Ian Hopwood, the capsize king lead the race and revelled in the conditions.

!

I was wondering if he would inspect the centerboard on his first gybe, it was now force 6 with some sizeable waves. Unfortunately he stayed upright! The 2nd lap we were pulling away from the fleet, a quick shout to Ian as we were going way past the lay line to the top mark... He tacked, let go of his tiller and went swimming. Sorry Ian, but I did wave as I passed him! I kept an eye on Olly Davenport and held for the race 6 win. I have been using a new CBCoverStore polish and maybe that made the difference as my results have improved." So, as we set up for the Noble Marine UK Nationals there have been some notable performances from Cumbley, Olly Davenport in the P&B powered JP/P&B hull who finished second overall and has catapulted him into the top ranks of the fleet, Chris Brown who scored the last race bullet in his North F2 powered Winder and locals Nick Bonner (Winder/Doyle Sails) and new Solo convert Richard Lovering, both who upheld the HISC tradition of excellence! I can throw in around another 35 names who will be looking to put themselves into the top 15, Andy Davis, Mike Sims, Andy Tunnicliffe, Martin Frary and Steve Ede among them. It should be an unmissable event and full of drama and excitement. Thanks to all who attended and to HISC for hosting an excellent event. Thanks also to Noble Marine who keep us on the water 24/7. More photos can be found at haylingisc.smugmug.com/Open-Events/2017/Solo-Open-Meeting

Full results on HISC website

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Moulded from epoxy foam sandwich the hull is very light yet enormously stiff. They are jig-assembled in the mould to ensure accuracy and consistency and the hand-layed epoxy is done by the same skilled team who have been building Merlins for years.

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forgiving ▪ Carries more weight Mark 1a . Optimised deck moulding

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