Issue 5 August 2026
SoloMagnificent 5
NSCA Committee 2026 President: Guy Mayger Vice President: Paul Davis
Honorary Secretary: Maria E. Franco Honorary Treasurer: Andrew Liddington Membership Sec: John Steels Championship Organiser: Vacant Demo Boat Coordinators: Paul Davis Web Site Coordinator: Nigel Davies Training Coordinator: Vacant Class Measurer: Jonathan Woodward On-Water Judge: Steve Watson Dinghy Show Coordinator : Guy Mayger Publicity Officer: Will Loy Southern Area Rep: Ian Matthews Western Area Rep: Vernon Perkins Eastern Area Rep: Mark Maskell Midlands Area Rep: Jon Swain Thames Valley Area Rep: Godfrey Clark Northern Area Reps: Andy Carter Scottish Area Rep: Charlie Brecknell
President’s Final Report Guy Mayger
Dear Solo sailors, As my time as President of the National Solo Class Association draws to a close, it seems appropriate to look back over the past few years and reflect on what has been a busy, rewarding and thoroughly enjoyable period. When I began writing these reports, the intention was always to keep members informed about what was happening across the class. Looking back, they tell a wider story: one of a class that remains strong, competitive and welcoming, supported by an extraordinary amount of voluntary effort both on and off the water. Throughout 2024, 2025 and 2026, Solo racing continued at every level, from regular club fleets through to open meetings, Area series, the Super Series, National Championships and Nations Cups. The weather did not always cooperate, with some events postponed, racing curtailed, but as sailors we know and understand this element of our fantastic sport… even if my wife thinks we are all slightly mad! Dawn may have a point having joined me at a storm reduced Salcombe weekend and a no sailing day at Whitstable due to fog. Despite this though, our enthusiasm for sailing, and specifically Solo sailing, remained undiminished. Across the country club racing continues to be the foundation of the class. Salcombe and Hayling Island regularly produced weekend fleets approaching or exceeding twenty boats, while Draycote, Grafham, Shustoke, South Staffs and the Scottish clubs are among the many other centres providing strong and competitive class racing. There are, of course, many more clubs I could mention. Together they demonstrate that the Solo remains one of the best choices for anyone wanting proper fleet racing in the UK. The open meeting and Area programme has been equally impressive. More than fifty events were organised during the 2025 season alone. Delivering such an extensive calendar requires a huge amount of work from our Area representatives, host clubs, race teams and volunteers. Their efforts have provided members with opportunities to race at every level and at a wonderful variety of venues. To all the Area reps who have served on the Committee, I am hugely grateful for all the hard work you’ve put into pulling the class calendar. Our major championships have produced some memorable racing. The 2024 National Championship and Nations Cup at Brightlingsea was a tremendous success. Although we narrowly missed the target of one hundred boats, the entry still placed the Solo among the best-supported dinghy classes in the country. Brightlingsea Sailing Club provided a fantastic welcome, excellent race management and an efficient and friendly shore operation. On the water, the championship delivered a genuine clash of the titans. Pim van Vugt led a strong Dutch contingent and became the first Dutch winner for many years, claiming both the Nations Cup and UK National titles on countback from Oliver Davenport. Charlie Cumbley finished only a few points behind, while Fergus Barnham’s fourth place suggested that a new generation was beginning to challenge the established names. The strength of the competition has been a recurring theme throughout my presidency. Our leading sailors have demonstrated an exceptionally high standard, but the depth of the fleet has also meant that a change in conditions can bring a completely different group to the front. That makes Solo racing both demanding and exciting, regardless of where an individual competitor sits within the fleet.
The 2025 Nations Cup at Lake Como provided a spectacular setting and another opportunity to strengthen the friendship and rivalry between the British and Dutch fleets. Of course, I was gutted not to be there! The conditions appeared particularly well suited to the Solo, and Tom Gillard added yet another championship to his considerable collection. Later that summer, the National Championship at North Berwick provided a rather different challenge. Storm Floris limited the programme to three days, but Race Officer Robbie Lawson and his team still delivered eight demanding races. East Lothian Yacht Club gave the fleet a characteristically warm Scottish welcome, even if the weather was rather less forgiving. The Tunnocks sponsored tea cakes were an excellent addition thanks to my ever hard-working Vice-President, Paul. Oliver Davenport produced an extraordinary performance, winning every race of the championship. As far as I am aware, this was the first time a Solo National Champion had achieved a clean sweep. Having also won the Inland Championship, Olly set an exceptional standard during 2025 and was a deserving Super Series champion. The results and trophies are important, but they are only part of what makes the Solo class successful. The atmosphere ashore, the willingness to share advice and the friendships formed through travelling and racing are equally significant. Whether someone is a former champion, a recent convert or sailing an older wooden boat at their first open meeting, there is a place for them within the class. Another development of which I am particularly pleased has been the expansion of class training. Rather than limiting coaching to the day before a major championship, the Association has provided funding for Area representatives to organise training closer to members’ home clubs. These free-to-members sessions have given club sailors direct access to some of the best sailors in the class—including, in some cases, the reigning National Champion. That generosity with knowledge is one of the Solo fleet’s greatest strengths. I hope training will continue to grow and help more sailors gain the confidence to move from club racing into open meetings and larger championships. The class has also maintained a strong public presence. Our appearances at the RYA Dinghy and Watersports Show have allowed us to display the Solo to a wider audience, answer questions and showcase both the heritage and continuing development of the boat. SoloInteractive and, more recently, Solo Magnificent have played an equally valuable role in recording our events, personalities and stories. My thanks go to Will Loy and everyone who has contributed reports, photographs, videos and ideas. None of this would have been possible without the support of our sponsors. Across the period, companies including Allen, North Sails, Noble Marine, HD Sails, P&B, CB Coverstore, Impact Marine, Hyde Sails and many others have contributed prizes, funding, equipment and practical support. Their generosity has enhanced our championships and series, and I hope members will continue to support the businesses that support the class.
My greatest thanks, however, must go to the people working behind the scenes. The Committee, Area representatives, membership and results teams, event organisers and numerous club volunteers have given many hours of their time to keep the Association running. Paul Davies did a tremendous amount of work securing championship sponsorship, while Graham Cranford Smith provided invaluable assistance with results, trophies and keeping the President in line. Andrew Liddington and John Steels have performed outstanding work as Treasurer and Membership Secretary, Nigel maintaining the website, while Maria, Ross, Nick, Godfrey, Vernon, Ian, Jonathan x2, Mark, Steve x2, Charlie, Andy, Chris and many others have each made significant contributions during their time on the Committee and the class in general. The 70 th anniversary has an opportunity to celebrate everyone who has contributed to the Solo over those seven decades: designers, builders, sailmakers, class officers, volunteers and, above all, the sailors. Please look out for the big celebration coming at the Inland Championships Sept 5/6 th at Grafham. It is also an opportunity to look forward. The Solo has endured because it has evolved carefully while retaining the essential qualities that made it successful in the first place. As President, I hope we have helped maintain the class in a healthy position: respecting the history of the class while supporting training, promotion, international competition and an ambitious programme of racing. Not everything has been perfect, and there will always be more that can be done, but I know the class continues in safe hands. Personally, it has been a privilege to serve as President. I have enjoyed representing the class, working with the Committee and meeting sailors at clubs and events throughout the country and beyond. I have also enjoyed competing alongside you—even on the occasions involving broken equipment, bent masts, bruised ribs and disappearing sunglasses! I thought my own high was to win the EOS at Draycote in 2024, but it seems you can get lucky twice as President, so I was delighted to be able to add the 2026 Nations Cup to my own list of wins (have I mentioned before I won that?). As a little challenge, I’ll throw a gauntlet down for Paul or any future Solo class President to win the Nations Cup at 60 years old ;-) A beer and one of Dawn’s homemade cakes is on offer if you achieve it! Thank you to everyone who has offered encouragement, advice, assistance, transported boats or trophies, or simply shared a drink and a story after racing. The Solo class is successful because of its people, and I am grateful to have played a small part in its continuing story. I know Paul and the Committee will continue to keep the Solo class at the forefront of the UK (and Dutch) dinghy racing scene, and wish them every success, and the 70 year old design will be giving sailors some of the best, most competitive racing for years to come. I hope all our members continue to race, travel, learn, volunteer and enjoy this remarkable little boat. Sail fast, sail smart. Guy Mayger President, National Solo Class Association
1999 plymouth
Mark Needler heads out to the start area just off Plymouth Hoe in his Andy miles built solo. I was among many sailors who decided to stay ashore, it was bloody windy. Jim Hunt would win that world championship in the sister ship 4218, the year 1999.
HIGH PERFORMANCE SKIN PROTECTION. Used and stress-tested by pro athletes, sports teams, the military and everyday folk, like us. Invest in your skin health for better-looking, better-feeling skin.
lifejacketskin.com
Flashback to July 11 2014 The 2014 Nation’s Cup on lake Garda was an epic battle between Cumbley and Couch at a venue surrounded by thousand foot cliffs, the latter would go on to win the championship but only after a match race royal. Both worthy of the title, couch hunted down his nearest rival in a pre-start game of cat and mouse in race 8 which saw them both weaving in and out of parked up solos who themselves watched the drama unfold with as much fascination as I did on the committee boat.
I like to think my summing up of those two competitors was both humorous and accurate. My biggest disappointment, not having photos of the two in action.
“Andy Couch leads the Nation's Cup here in Riva del Garda but only on count-back from reigning champion Charlie Cumbley. Michael Sims is a further 10 points behind and Andy Tunnicliffe is fourth. Pete Mitchell, Tim Law and Chris Brown fill fifth, sixth and seventh and Dave Mitchell, Ian Houston and Ian Hopwood complete the top ten. Shane MacCarthy (IRL) is thirteenth and Gerard Post (NED) is fourteenth. Friday is the final day of racing and with an early start of 9 a.m and three races scheduled, it should be enthralling. With 2 discards coming into play if the three races are completed there is still much to gain or lose. Both Andy Couch and Charlie Cumbley are big hitters and these two do seem to be destined for a showdown. I am divided as to who could take the title if it does go down to these two fine sailors. This is the Liverpool team of ’77' against the Arsenal of '89'. This is the mighty hitting of Botham against the stylish batting of Tendulkar. This is not Ainslie versus Scheidt because neither are Scheidt. Couch is wearing the fabled yellow jersey as event leader and what is certain is that we will have a British yellow jersey victory.”
Return to the Solo Charlie Nunn
Two years away from the Solo circuit, I've been exploring life in the fast lane, trying my hand at sailing a Blaze and even collecting a few more Kellogg's swimming badges along the way! The small skiff took quite a while to get up to speed, which isn't surprising considering it's at the opposite end of the sailing spectrum to the Solo. At this year's Blaze Nationals I finished 8th overall (767), although the result didn't tell the whole story. My hull cracked around the centreboard case, causing the boat to take on more and more water throughout the day. It was a real shame because I felt I was on course for a top result, having finished 3rd in the opening race before the boat became noticeably heavier. It definitely feels like there's some unfinished business for me in the Blaze class. I also had the chance to sail a Tasar with my younger sister. It's another wonderfully quirky class that rewards patience and incredibly fine tuning, especially as the boat planes both upwind and downwind. To this day, I don't know how my sister has put up with me! In a Tasar, the crew does almost everything while the helm mainly sits there sawing the traveller and barking instructions.
Pic: Petru Belau.
We borrowed a well-used 50-year-old hull (29) from local legends Jeremy and Suzanne Hawkins, now six-time National Champions. We had a fantastic Nationals together, showing excellent pace both upwind and downwind. Our Achilles heel was the reach legs, where in one race we went from challenging for the lead to slipping back to eighth in just two short legs. My fiercely competitive sister wasn't impressed, but I reminded her that we were racing against Tasar royalty and had only sailed the boat together for the first time that year at the Nationals. To be mixing it with the front of the fleet at times exceeded all our expectations.
The Nigel Pusinelli Trophy at Felpham was the perfect reintroduction to the Solo class. A huge thank you to the Solo Class Association for trusting me with the demo boat, and to Paul Davis for making it all happen. What a way to return to the fleet: 15 knots of breeze and 30°C heat on the Saturday! I was immediately reminded why I'd missed the class so much. The racing was incredibly close, and once I'd pulled the de-raker pin out before Race 2, the boat suddenly came alive. I rounded the first windward mark in second place in both Races 2 and 3, and my upwind pace felt as strong as anyone's in the fleet. The key was finding a rhythm through the awkward chop, stabbing the tiller through the shorter waves, then bearing away two or three degrees when a bigger set approached, punching through with speed before carrying the height back through the flatter water behind. It was immensely satisfying when it all came together.
Charlie followed up his pusinelli experience With a win at starcross in his new solo 5914. Photo credit: garnett showell
It was a shame the weekend ended with my well-publicised crash on Sunday, but thankfully former Solo sailor Kim Furniss came to the rescue, repairing the demo boat in just five days so it was ready for the next sailor in time for the Nationals. Since then, I've picked up my own boat: 5914 Paul Davis Boat Yard at Beer hull, complete with a new D+ Needlespar mast and a North P4 sail. I'm absolutely raring to get back out on the circuit, again. Shout out to Paul for sourcing all the bits to make a very competitive package. Western Area Representative Vernon Perkins has told me that, despite starting the season late, there are still enough qualifying events for me to compete in the Western Series. That means another shot at the Western Championship could be on the cards after winning the title in 2023 following a closely fought series. Looking ahead to the Nationals, my expectations are high. Equipment-wise, I've got all my favourite kit. I sailed in the bay at the end of June during the Tasar Nationals, and the venue feels remarkably similar to my home club at Porthpean. The water depth, wave patterns and the way the wind interacts with the land on offshore days all feel very familiar. I'd be delighted with a top-15 finish, but if everything comes together and I avoid any silly mistakes, I genuinely believe I have the pace to challenge for a top-10 result.
Flashback national championship 1993 Ian Mitchell and Jon clarke home in on the top mark at Paignton, it must have been later in the week because I can just make out some black gaffer tape on ian’s port side, the result of a collision a few days earlier.
I had borrowed one of mike barnes solos for the week, the Beckett build 3847 (Top Drive) he still races today and it was in pristine condition. Mike had faith in my boat handling ability so was confident it would come back in perfect condition… Race 2 and with the bay providing champagne conditions I round the top mark first with Mitchell sneaking inside me from the left lay line (ok I was technically Second). We both bare off with Carveth, McMillan, thresher and bond in our wake. I look down to grab my centreboard handle and by the time I look up, Ian has gybed right in front of me, the sound of timber splintering is unmistakeable, a perfect T Bone. We swap a few choice words and after a quick look I carry on, finishing sixth while Ian has to retire. Back on shore and Mitchell is already taping up the Solo bow shaped hole, fortunately the Beckett is largely unscathed. Happy memories.
Flashback 2018 National Championship 104 solos, unbroken sunshine and a classic Hayling Bay breeze.
Ellie Cumpsty arrived on the scene and put together a series which almost saw her finish second overall, had it not been for a BFD in a final crazy race which saw 17 more competitors bite the dust. Tim Law and Pete Mitchell had also been over but could discard their BFD but Ellie already had two and that mistake cost her the podium.
Ellie did win race 7 and became the first lady to win a Championship race. “The second lap was more dramatic in it's conclusion than as a visual spectacle, I should mention that my 'eye's on' reporting was slightly hindered by my rib drivers insistence on keeping to an exclusion zone the size of Norway. Cumpsty hooked into a left hand lift, never to be seen again which dropped some of the leaders down while Horey and Hicks, which to be honest sounds like an Estate Agency improved to third and fourth with race 6 winner Bailey back up to second, what a day he was having.”
HD Sails Scottish Travellers series update Charlie Bracknell
The HD Sails Scottish series is now more than halfway through but currently only one sailor has competed in more than two events due to sailors finding several events clashed with other commitments. This all Means we have only Ross Watson who has done three events qualifying so therefore he currently leads the series. Ian Baillie has won both the events he has attended in fine form with five bullets and a second showing that time spent in the boat is definitely paying off. Stuart Gibson proved the worthy winner at a challenging Scottish Championships at Chanonry with local Sailor Ben Yeats showing good speed to take second in his first Solo event, Ross Watson taking a solid third and Jon Bailey also from the home club in 4 th . Unfortunately, the weekend also saw damage to masts and sails due to the strong winds which came through on Sunday afternoon and saw PRO Marcus Wheel make the wise decision to can the last race of the day. Prestwick saw a reduced entry due to strong wind forecast meaning an elite group took to the water with Ian Baillie demonstrating his skills winning all three races Ross Watson showing good for in 2 nd and Kevan Gibb 3 rd . With a reported 7 Scottish Entries for the Nationals in Torbay in a few weeks’ time the fleet will be back racing in the middle of August at Loch Venacher a wonderful friendly club hidden away in the Trossachs followed by Loch Tummel in early September. The Final event will be at Dalgety Bay . It is still all to play for with these event will allow those still to do so to qualify for the series overall. Continued thanks to Andy at HD Sails for his continued support of the Scottish Solo fleet. Name Bardowie Largs Helensburgh Chanonr y Prestwick Venacher Tummel Dalgety Ian Baillie 2 1 1 DNC CANCELLED DNC 1 1 1 Stuart Gibson 1 2 rtd DNC “ 1 1 5 DNC Willie Todd DNC 2 1 3 2 “ 2 7 1 DNC Ross Watson 6 7 5 DNC “ 342 224 Alastair Stevenson 9 5 2 3 4 4 4 “ DNC DNC Kevan Gibb DNC 1 3 1 1 “ DNC 3 3 2
Bruce Birrell
4 6 5 5
“
DNC DNC
Neil Rosie DNC 5 7 8 7
“ “
DNC 4 5 3 687 545
Roddy Henry
DNC 8 8 7 8
Mark Millington Kenny Manderson
DNC 10 10 9 9
“
DNC DNC
DNC 9 9 6 6
“
DNC DNC
Patrick Burns
DNC 7 5 11 11
“
9 11 11 DNC
Charlie Brecknell
5 4 3
6 2 2 3
“
DNC DNC
Callum Gibb Robert Taylor Robert Signer
3 3 4
DNC
“
DNC DNC
Dnf 6 6 DNC
“
5 6 11 DNC
4 9 rtd DNC
“
DNC DDNCNC
Iain Morton 7 10 7 DNC Jon Bailey DNC DNC
“ “ “
DNC DNC 4 3 6 DNC DNC DNC
Keith Milroy
8 rtd 8 DNC
Stewart Carrie David Finlyson Andrew Hewitt
10 8 9 DNC
“
DNC DNC
DNC DNC
““
10 9 8 DNC
DNC DNC
“
7 5 4 DNC
Prize winners and action from the HD Sails Scottish champs at chanonry. Photo credit: Mike wilson
Flashback October 29 2012 The End of Season Championship at Draycote water was a bloody chilly affair but it did not put off the 51 competitors who enjoyed three frantic races in fresh winds. The star studded cast included Andy Davis (below), the National champion, Charlie Cumbley, Matt Howard, Micheal Sims, Andy Tunnicliffe, Ian Pinnell and a host of other 'top end' sailors. Kevan Gibb made the long trip down from Scotland and must have felt quite at home in the penal conditions.
Lewin photography
“Sims took a chance up the next beat, knowing that if Davis won the race he would win the event and only winners get to marry the prom queen. unfortunately for him, Cumbley exploited the situation and moved into second by the top of the fourth. Howard was comfortably in fourth position with Ian Pinnell revelling on the downwinds and looking equally at home upwind despite only 67kg approx. Thoughts of the 505 Worlds next year in Barbados must have warmed his soul and strengthened his resolve. Further down the fleet the racing was equally dramatic with Kevan Gibb's mast and shroud, casualties of an almighty capsize on the run, viewed by Davis as he crossed upwind, Andy's eyes widening as the out of control Scotsman careered towards him. Ian Hopwood, aka 'the gybe king' was entertaining us with his amazing balancing skills. In one gybe he first saved his steer as the boom planted itself into the leeward wave, just like Elvstrom, then as the boat heeled violently to windward and with the rudder completely out of the water, he somehow brought her level and went on his merry way like nothing had happened, genius. At the gun it was Davis who held his nerve to take the title with a race to spare.”
Davenport Sails
When I was developing my Solo sail I wanted to use Contender Maxx sail cloth as I think it works really well with the Solo sail, being able to make the sail a crosscut panel layout and putting the seams on the batten pockets makes a very clean looking sail. I also think the Maxx cloth responds really well to the use of controls, especially downhaul. I finished my first Solo sail on the Friday before the Winter Championships at Northampton with no time to test it so I launched for the first time not quite knowing how the sail was going to perform. As the day went on I realised it was too full, making it very difficult in the light winds that we had that day. After that day I made a few adjustments to the sail to flatten it off and managed to get out and sail a few times at Thursday night club racing against a few other Solos and was happy with the changes I had made. I knew that the Solo Spring Championship at HISC at the end of April would be a really good test for the sail. We had a good mix on conditions for the weekend with about 10 knots on the Saturday dropping to 3 or 4 by the end of the last race and 18-20 on the Sunday. I was really happy with how the sail performed especially in the light conditions on the Saturday where I managed to score 2,3,3 in typically my worst conditions. Oliver crewed for Georgia booth and they have just won the Fireball Nationals…at torbay.
My targets for the year for the business are to finalise my sail designs in my main classes, this being the Solo, OK and Fireball as well as a range of accessories like covers and toe straps. Sailing wise as I write this I am about to start the Fireball Nationals/Pre Worlds with the Worlds starting in a few days. I would like to try and improve on our 8th from last year at the Worlds. For the Solo I would like to keep hold of the National Championship although I can imagine this isn’t going to be easy as Torbay can be a very tricky venue.
It should be a fascinating week at torbay with davenport utilising the contender maxx cloth versus the new aramid Charlie Cumbley will be trialling.
Davenport won the spring championship at Hayling Island in a range of conditions
The Mystery Hull
Mike dray is in possession of a solo but with no number engraved in the hog or fixed to transom, it’s age and builder are hard to ascertain. The hull shell which is in remarkably good condition looks too robust to be grp so that would indicate it is an frp build. Omega did dabble in frp in the eighties but this looks newer so we would assume there it is a don marine. The slightly bevelled edges to the deck to side tank join would have been a big marketing feature as would have been the striking colour scheme.
There are some more clues that this is an early frp build, the transom port is relatively small and those transom gudgeons are pretty dodgy looking, certainly not seasure. The gunwale profile looks quite narrow in its depth and the transom itself looks relatively thick, modern FRP builds have wider gunwales to maximise leverage and minimum weight at the ends. The hull is in great condition and you could argue that Barry and Glynn were just ten years too soon with the frp build that would find favour with the class from 2000 onwards. It would be interesting to know where the bulkhead sits and how much rake can be achieved, my guess is that it is at 3050 so some fettling to be done mike!
So in conclusion, I suggest this is indeed a don marine frp build and mike dray can use it as his weapon of choice should he wish to attend the vintage championships or even that category at the inland championship celebration event. Just give the cockpit a wash first mate.
Taken from the solo mag archives 1992
Solo Nation’s Cup 2024 Brightlingsea
A picture can say a thousand words and you might guess, from the bleak expressions on Patrick and steve’s faces that something is wrong. I was behind the camera (phone) and seething after destroying my camera and stabiliser during the first race of the championship. We had been moored just to windward of mark 1 as the fleet closed in and I took up position at the stern with Patrick Burns, our cameras trained on the unfolding action. With no warning our rib lurched forward, the stainless frame and our razor sharp reactions the only things stopping us from going over the back into the muddy brown water Brightlingsea is known for. The Nikon and stabiliser were destroyed and I had to rely on my phone for the rest of the regatta. The atmosphere on the rib is best described as frosty though our driver seemed oblivious to it all!
Patrick burns Former class president
Steve watson Class jury
Southern area series update Ian Matthews
Glorious conditions at Felpham SC saw a high class field battle it out for the Area/ Pusinelli trophy, with Alex Butler from HISC claiming top prize (Full report elsewhere) It is not easy drawing direct comparison year on year, as nature of events (areas or opens) and event date changes, however, as best as I can calculate, the Southern Area is having a great year so far. Excluding Felpham, 153 competitors have taken part in the 5 events to date, up from 114 last year. Special mention to Rudi and the guys from Chipstead, who have made a big difference so far......And, to everyone else who has travelled, .....bravo and thanks! With 4 area events still to go, we already have 6 who have qualified (NB, there will be changes to criteria for next year) which when you consider we only had 10 in total in 2025, confirms the increased level of participation, which is great Fraser leads, from Simon and James from Chipstead is 3rd (full YTD results are on the NSCA website) We've now a break in the calendar until September 13th, when Littleton SC hosts event 6. Attendance last year wasn’t great at 13, I'm sure 2026 will be better. Being near Shepperton, Littleton is ideal for those based in the north of our area and is really easy to access off the M3/M25, and the club does provide amazing cakes! The event is joint with the TV area, so is double bubble benefit We need to support the smaller events/clubs on our calender, they provide the diversity and variation we need to enable our Class to thrive, if you can, get the date on your diary Enjoy your summer, see you in September, oh, and thank you P&B for your kind and generous support
Pic: John rogerson
Action from the dell quay open 2026 Pic: Jack de la Hunty
Winning move 2023 Ben flower was a dead and buried in race 9 of the championship with rival cumbley leading the fleet out to the right of the course.
“Flower and Davenport started at the committee boat with Cumbley twenty or so lengths down the line after the first start was recalled and the fleet punched their stubby noses through the Solent chop which was tame by day 4 standards. Michael Hicks threaded the needle and, hooking into a nice left hand lift rounded first, giving him bragging rights at Salcombe Y.C. for the next 365 days. Dave Mitchell and Steve Ede followed next from Han Duetz, Iain Magregor and Jon Gay. Cumbley followed Nunn around and looking back could see that Flower and Davenport were deep. The run was a perfect angle, the PRO Mark Wood and his team have done a marvellous job all week and they were not going to drop the ball today. Hicks held from Cumbley and they split, left and right respectively with Ede and Magregor following the Salcombe specialist. Cumbley was way out to the right with the majority of the fleet following but Flower and Davenport, fourteenth and sixteenth at the top mark headed out to sea, Flower's sail numbers out of focus, even with my Nikon P950 at full zoom. The right appeared to go soft and, unbelievably, Flower, smelling of roses was lifted to the top mark and the lead which he would hold to the finish following an undramatic run. Cumbley and Davenport followed in obediently with Hicks and James Goodfellow completing the top five.”
Solo nation’s cup 2015
Right time I had ordered my rib driver to take me in to shore when a squall suddenly appeared from nowhere, with the fleet rounding the top mark. right place We turned the rib around and set up just shy of the leeward mark with the fleet blasting down the final reach, afternoon Sunshine illuminating the laminate sails and whitecaps.
“This was proper man-testing stuff, therefore, incredible respect for the one lady competitor, Katie Masterson who completed all three races. The wind increased to a healthy 18-24 and with a tweak to 255 degrees and a course adjustment by Ted and the team, the re- scheduled race 3 was started. Clean away and with a few OCS casualties with something to prove it was big Jim Turner who gained the bragging rights with Cumbley second and Nick Bonner who had calmed down after a difference of opinion with Chris Brown at the start of race 9, third. As the newly installed President of the N.S.C.A I plan to introduce the naughty chair for transgressors of the racing rules of sailing. The reaches were epic. I was called away to shore so could not cover the race but made it back to video an epic reach. At the gun it was Cumbley who secured his third bullet of the day from Davis, Sims, Tunnicliffe (below right) and Turner.”
Competitors collapsed on the beach post ’big thursday’.
Eastern Series Update Mark Maskell
The Eastern series is now 6 events completed with 4 remaining. The next event is at Dabchicks on Mersey Island on the 29th August. Hopefully the weather gods will be kind this year and the event will go ahead. Racing at the mouth of the Blackwater Estuary. This is the third attempt for the club to run their first solo open, so please support them. Brian Morum has been doing lots of miles and attended all events so far and leads the series, but he could still be caught depending on attendance and results from the 4 remaining events.
Western Area Report July 2026
The P&B Western Series is now gaining pace with our third event at Starcross on 25 th July. Charlie Nunn has returned to the fleet with hi first win in his new, ex Paul Davis, boat. His Blaze sailing has obviously prepared him for capsize recovery which I understand came in handy. Sadly, the Welsh Champs at Llandegfedd were cancelled due to a lack of forecast wind. The Western Champs also nearly suffered the same fate as the forecast lied, but the RO did a fantastic job to get us 4 races in on Saturday in drifting conditions, but Sunday was cancelled with zero wind. With Torpoint being postponed for too much wind the weather has not been kind to us in the west. Olly Davenport held a great training day on the Friday before the Western Champs at Chew Valley. Everyone got a lot out of it and several who had not attended these training events before commented on how much they learnt, wanting more set up. So we are looking to see what we can do for the rest of this year. If you get the opportunity to attend one of the NSCA Training days, do it. You will gain a lot. Currently the P&B Western Series is headed up by John Steels in first place with Steve Roberts and Spod Olive in 2 nd and 3 rd . But only John and Steve have completed all 3 events so all likely to change. Full results on the NSCA Website. Next series event is the rearranged Torpoint Mosquito Open on Saturday 22 nd August. There is also an opportunity to take part in their regatta on the Sunday if you want to get a 2 nd days racing in. Then we have the Teign Corinthian Open on 20 th September, Salcombe Open on 17 th -18 th October and South Cerney Open on 31 st October. With only 4 events to qualify for series awards there are still enough events available. The Nationals at Royal Torquay YC are also in our area this year. Entry is still available and following my car accident and writing my Solo 6139, Trolley and Trailer off, I have already picked up a new one from Winder and all set to go. A superb job by all involved to get me a complete new boat etc. sorted in 2 weeks. See you on the water soon. Vernon Perkins – Western Area Rep. Below: Dittisham winner Giles Bradford with Stuart Hydon 2nd, Mark Williams 3rd and first lady Jayne Morris
SAILS
COVERS
RIGGING
Our Sails are designed, developed and tested in-house, to ensure they are compeƟƟve and at the front of the fleet. All of our products are meƟculously designed by sailors, specifically for your needs. Everything we make is made with the same care and aƩenƟon to detail, no maƩer how big or small it is.
Andy Tunnicliffe, Impact Marine Ltd, Unit 3/4 Tarnwater, Carnforth, Lancashire, LA5 9RJ. info@impactmarine.co.uk 015242 37183
‘Sing a rainbow’ 2017 nationals royal torbay
I was filming the solo national championship after retiring myself from the actual racing, as class president I felt a burden of responsibility for ensuring the event ran smoothly. That said, I do not want to hear Guy Mayger singing. Unfortunately the slipway was partially blocked by a fishing boat so with 87 competitors holding outside the harbour I devised a simple solution. Each group of ten finishers were assigned a colour and when we called it they would filter in. Red were first. the blue group had a long wait!
Inland Championship promo venue tips by Geoff Carveth first published 2011 ‘The first point to look at is that not all inland waters are the same, Rutland Water and Grafham Water do not have the same characteristics as smaller venues such as Frensham Pond or Burghfield.
The first thing to look at when arriving at a small lake or reservoir venue is the surrounding geography.
Take a look around for clumps of trees, islands, water towers or any other obstructions. Such obstructions can cause convergence or divergence of the wind and this is what makes inland sailing so tricky!
There are wind channels and wind shadows all of which are vital to be aware of prior to racing.
‘It’s also important to look up at the sky: clouds are a key indicator of what is about to come through, this is easier to work with on a coastal location but you still need to look up inland, it’s just the effects are much more immediate. If you are already familiar with the venue you may well know about ‘zones’ where you could run out of wind or where there is more likely to be a wind channel. Local knowledge proves that if the wind is coming from a particular direction, you know to stick to the opposite bank if sailing on a river, or that a particular part of the lake will generally have more constant wind. ‘Another big difference when sailing inland, is you need to keep your head well out the boat! Relax about your compass settings and sail with the boats around you. Try not to ‘bang corners’ or you risk getting caught out with no wind and instead try and get leverage on the fleet with height and positioning. There is no excuse for not keeping your head out of the boat, you have more time to do so in a sense because you do not have to watch waves or think about the tide.
‘I’m generalising here but in my experience lake sailing boats are often slow performing boats such as the Solo, so you can afford to take less risks, to tack immediately on a knock whereas on the sea you’d sail into it, get settled, then decide whether or not to take it depending on your angle and position. In both river and inland sailing both the helm and crew know that they’re tacking as the boat is often tacking them! ‘On the sniff of a shift you take the knock on a lake and you won’t have lost anything, in a faster bigger boat only tack at the vital moment. ‘In lake sailing you nearly always have boats upwind you can use as indicators of what is coming. Other variables to watch out for are hills, valleys and obstacles. Valleys, depending on the wind direction can produce big rolling gusts, on the other hand you can be completely trapped in the wind shadow of something like a clubhouse or water tower. ‘The important thing is to build up your race track theory before you cross the start line and observe obvious obstructions. Littleton, where I grew up is tree lined, the major variables are the larger batches of trees, the motorway and the clubhouse all of which can do some tricky things to the racecourse. ‘If there is anything you are unsure about such as shallows, remember to ask at the briefing, gather as much information as you can about a venue and log it for future reference. If you’re turning up for an open meeting at a club you’ve never sailed at, don’t be afraid to have a friendly chat with one of the top sailors in the class, they are bound to have sailed there previously and might be able to impart some useful tips. ‘One more generic tip that I can offer is that in most circular reservoirs such as Queen Mary Reservoir there is more chance of gaining an advantage over the rest of the fleet through breeze angles than sailing up the middle as you might on a coastal course. Because of the shape of the reservoir, there is generally always more ‘happening’ at the edges, in stark comparison to lake and river sailing where because of the effect of trees and buildings you tend to avoid sailing too close to the edge.
Rivers are different again, because of the one-way tide you can often find yourself crawling along the banks and making many tactical manoeuvres such as avoiding pleasure boats. ‘A key moment within a race situation on inland waters is the approach to a mark, you need to make sure you’re sailing in with speed as the mark might be in an area of little or zero wind. The legs of an inland course are so much more compact that this approach is crucial, you need to make sure you have everything in place by the final quarter of the beat as you might only get one go at it! ‘Inland sailing is not just about boathandling, it’s a mindset, almost a different discipline within our sport. You need to be able to change gear more frequently and be open minded about throwing tacks in. The more venues you sail at the better you become at working out the rights and wrongs of a place.’ Geoff Carveth is a multiple inland champion in Enterprises, Solos and RS200s. Having grown up at Littleton SC, sailing a British Moth at the age of 12, Geoff was self-taught all the way. Littleton SC, where his dad has always sailed, taught him a lot about ‘nip and tuck’ sailing.
Article by Toby Heppell, sailing today 2011.
Geoff carveth and Harvey Hillary clash horns back in the 90’s.
PRECISION BUILT SOLO SAILS.
Our 40+ years of championship sail-making expertise, plus our dinghy hardware, masts and foils, ensure your boat delivers when it matter most. From custom rigging to premium fittings, covers, sailing gear and footwear - we understand what makes the difference to Solo sailors on the water. SHOP OUR SOLO RANGE ONLINE.
SCAN CODE TO SHOP:
HEATHFIELD WAT, NORTHAMPTON, NN5 7QP • CALL 01604 592808 • INFO@PINBAX.COM PINNELL AND BAX LTD
PINBAX.COM
Scottish Series at Prestwick
The Scottish Solo fleet visited Prestwick Sailing Club on Saturday 25th July for the next round of their HD Sails Scottish Series and yet again, it was a windy event. This put off several potential participants and with the wind onshore at 20+ knots and producing a nasty looking shore break, it didn't seem to be the worst decision. But the forecast was to ease by start time and that is exactly what happened, leading to a great day on the water playing in the waves that Prestwick is well known for. Race one set the scene for the day with Ian Baillie quickly taking the lead off the start line by driving over Kevan Gibb. By mark one, Ian had a small lead over Ross Watson and Kevan. The reaches were a bit roller coaster and the gybe was either very easy or very wobbly, depending on how you caught the waves. Ian opened up a gap by the leeward mark and then consolidated his lead over Ross, who was covering Kevan. There were no changes of places downwind or on the next lap to the finish. Fourth was Neil Rosie sailing his wooden Solo that he had saved from someone's garden and renovated over last winter and fifth was Roddy Henry, who had made the trip down from Inverness to get some pre-Nationals practice. And commiserations to Stuart Gibson, who broke his kicker just as he launched, which turned out to be un-repairable. At least he'd only come from Milngavie. Race two and Ian and Ross were very close at the top mark and rounded within a boat length. It was still as close at the gybe mark but Ian nailed his gybe while Ross got a bit wobbly and allowed Ian to open a gap. There was never much in it on the next two laps until Ian decided it was time to head to the finish line, when it wasn't the finish, letting Ross take advantage of the mistake to get into the lead. However, Ross over-stood the windward mark and Ian squeezed past, then used his downwind speed to take a second win. Kevan was third again and Roddy sailed very well into fourth ahead of Neil. The final race and while the three leading boats were having a chat, the race officer decided to start the count down. This led to Ross missing the start by enough to put him behind the fleet. There was a bit of a left shift up the first beat, which had Neil and Roddy right on Ian's tail by the first mark. Kevan overtook Roddy on the reaches but couldn't get past Neil over the next two laps, with Ian carefully covering both of them to maintain his lead to the end. Ian won all three races to win overall, with Ross second, Kevan third, Neil fourth and Roddy fifth. Prestwick sailing club laid on a great welcome, with particular thanks to race officer Neil Beveridge for keeping us well informed of the day's plans and to David McClay, who kept the food coming before and after sailing. Also, many thanks to our sponsors, HD Sails and Cairngorm Brewery for their support and generous prizes.
Photo Katie Masterson
It is with great sadness we have to announce the passing of one of our former Class Presidents, Gordon Walls. Gordon served on the Committee in various roles before taking the big seat from Winston Knight in 1982, relinquishing it to Craig Moffett in 1984. The Class was in quite a dire situation with boats sales dropping off and some dissension amongst the ranks so it was a breath of fresh air to have this man leading the way forward. I remember Gordon with warmth, a gentleman on the water, cheerful and yet fully focussed while off the water he had the sort of presence which was commanding without any nonsense. Gordon had a team of equally race minded individuals to call on and a stoic Chief Measurer in Frank Mountfield. Gordon was one of the pioneers of the Omega foam sandwich Solo, racing 3340 in an era which was still full of Lovett builds. His overall finish at the 1984 Nationals at Brixham did not reflect his skill but a 5th in race 2 must have felt good. Gordon was a proud father and had every right to be one as his son Ewan has produced some great wins in the design they both love while himself remaining a gentleman on and off the water, the best possible reflection on his dad. Our condolences to Ewan and his family. Will Loy
FOR SALE Winder Boats only Available Solos: • W1 4946 – £4,900 • W1 5224 – New sail – £5,150
• W1 5262 – £4,900 • W2 5262 – £5,300 • W1 5506 – £5,400 .W1.A 5675 ex tom gillard £5800 • W1A 6013 – £7,600 sold • W2 6148 (June 2026) – Alloy trolley, M2 mast, North sails. Very fast boat with lots of extras – £10,900 Extras & options • Part-exchange possible at trade price • Choice of mast and sail to suit your weight • Road base available • Delivery possible • Set-up settings shown • All boats have been checked . Hull and deck polished . Any faults replaced . All boats very nice condition. Contact
Email: sales@cbtrailerstore.co.uk Regards Chris brown Avon Cnc
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease