Sonata Nationals 2023, sponsored by Axent Workwear, at Parkstone Yacht Club - Day 1

Sonatas Nationals at Parkstone Day 1 - Joe Cross leads the fleet © Sarah Hornby

Sonatas Nationals at Parkstone Day 1 - Joe Cross wins the day © Sarah Hornby

The forecast was not promising, an hour's postponement allowed the rain to pass with the fleet setting off into a freshening SE wind.

The courses for the day were trapeziums. The first race started under the P flag but within minutes the wind died and racing was abandoned.

The next race started under a U flag after some energetic tactics leading to a general recall on the first attempt. With a clear start, the fleet split, the starboard side of the course paying handsomely. 8053 Duette helmed by Joe Cross and 8314 Saraband raced by Mark Taylor broke away from the rest of the fleet and crossed the line in this order.

The final race of the day was a clear start under the U flag, discipline having been restored on the start line. Some aggressive tactics were used at both the windward and the leeward mark creating plenty interest for the spectators.

8186 Off Quay, helmed by Neil Schofield led the fleet at the windward mark, the starboard side of the course paying once again. Duette quickly overhauled Off Quay and led for the rest of the race, clocking up two bullets for the day.

Summarising the experiences of the day, Joe Cross agreed it was a tough day in very tricky conditions, "the game of trying not to stop" in a short chop in light winds.

Results after Day 1: