RETURN OF THE SOLO CLASS!
As far as I can remember the last time I raced a solo at a class event was the 2006 Nationals at Felpham, quite a bit has changed in the class since then with multiple builders and an increase in the number of rock stars battling it out at the front which from what I can see, has brought the whole fleet on. The class is in a really strong place, 100+ new boats a year and well supported by a network of builders, sail makers and suppliers it is pretty hard to fault what the class has to offer.
My background for the last 20 years has been skiffs and it is only in the last 5-6 years I’ve gone back to racing in the more traditional classes. There’s a big difference between the tactics and demands when comparing something like a I14 with a solo. The racing is completely different but for me personally I think every boat has its strengths and unique skill set to perform at the sharp end of the fleet.
Compared with all the classes I have raced I really struggle to find fault with the solo, while I was racing in a fleet of 45 at Bough Beech there were numerous other events on around the country with similar turnouts. The racing itself is tight and competitive and the format of one day opens in a boat that is quick and easy to rig means the class has plenty of offer to a lot of people, not least because the boat itself is enjoyable and rewarding to sail.
If you haven’t had a go in one or it’s been a few years since you have sailed a solo I can’t recommend enough giving it a go!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=miYDAJ6b62Y
Pinnell & Bax is one of the leaders in this market, with the ability to offer not just new boats and sails but complete packages. We are the classes chosen chandlery, we have everything a solo sailor could need. From new boats to replacement sails and spars we give you the best technical advice to get the most from your purchases. With our HQ in Northampton and new base in Fareham we are now better positioned than ever to support the solo fleet.
If you have any questions or queries contact our Director Ben McGrane at Ben@pinbax.com or our boat Manager Oliver Wells at boats@pinbax.com they will be happy to answer any questions you may have.
P&B Race Team News!
Chris Catt and Roz McGrane won the RS200 Carnac Eurocup. With a battle down to the last race they secured the overall win with a final bullet.
Over the winter Chris and Roz’s 200 has been serviced by our workshop in Fareham, with hull and foils having minor repairs completed along with a new slot gasket to keep ‘Lily’ performing at the best possible level.
P&B are the UK’s leading dinghy specialists, and can offer many services to sailors racing in strict one design classes.
Workshop repair and refurbishments – our repair team work to the highest standard and can repair and refurbish boats to an as new standard quickly.
Sail repairs – our sail loft team understand the importance of racing sails and can repair damage without compromising the shape or strength of a sail in all materials.
Covers, foil bags, mast bags – made from the best quality materials and designed to give the best fit.
Trailing equipment and storage – agent for all leading trailer and trolley manufactures and stockists of everything you need to make sure your boat is safe on and off the road.
Chandlery – Largest stock of leading retail brands for hardware, rope, clothing and boat care products.
Rigging – Accurate rigging made for racing dinghies and tuning advice and services available to optimise your boat speed.
Fareham – email 01489 577748
Visit us in store or check out our website for the full range of products and services!
PRODUCT OF THE WEEK!
This week has been busy in the shop and the P&B made to measure harness has been a big seller. This is a firm favourite of mine and with our staff available in store to custom fit you, you are guaranteed a really comfortable and long lasting harness.
Visit us in store or go to our website for more information.
Contact us via e-mail (enquiries@pinbax.com) or phone 01489 577748 to take advantage of these fantastic prices while stocks last!
10% off Baltic Buoyancy Aids – offer ends 31st June 2015.
Visit us in store in Fareham or check our website for more information.
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