Solo Open at Bassenthwaite Sailing Club

Bass Solo Open © William Carruthers

Bass Solo Open © William Carruthers

Innes Armstrong wins the Bass Solo Open © William Carruthers

18 soloists, including 7 home boats arrived at Bassenthwaite on Sunday 12 June to find the lake a mirror. However, as the fleet had not got to race at Windermere on Saturday, they were keen to get on the water at any cost (almost!), so when there was a hint of a breeze from the NE, the OD took to the water, laid a line and the hint of wind promptly veered to the SE, backing to the E.

The race sequence started, the wind shifted, and racing was underway, albeit starting on a fetch! With the light airs picking up, and continuing to shift, sailors did not get the best that Bass had to offer, but it was a race, and places were there for the taking, with Bassenthwaite's Mike Cowan pulling through from last to 5th, with the race being won by Innes Armstrong from Burwain.

The course was reset for the 2nd race, and conditions were somewhat better, and slightly more consistent, with Innes taking another comfortable win and securing the series trophy, and having the luxury of being able to sit out the last race, have lunch and pack up early!

While there was some wind, it was decided to stay on the water and hold the final race of the day, but the wind was in a devilish mood, swinging though 360 degrees! Commitment to progress the racing resulted in a running start, but it did mean there was a beat instead of a run on the third leg of the course! Much to his surprise, Bassenthwaite's Ian Hall found himself contending for the lead and ending with a very creditable 4th.The wind continued to swing, and vary in strength, but sailors were generally satisfied to have been on the water, however frustrating that may have been.

Overall Results: