Solo Open at Staunton Harold Sailing Club

Staunton Harold Solo Open © Nick Threadgill

Staunton Harold Solo Open © Nick Threadgill

Thirteen visitors joined six home boats for a great day's sailing in the final round of the 2015 Solo Midlands Series which was held at Staunton Harold Sailing Club on 10th October.

Despite a reasonable weather forecast, sailors were greeted at the club by mist and flat calm. Thankfully, the forecast proved correct and the wind filled in to a steady 8-10 knots which then held all day, and the race officer Simon Kelsall was able to get the fleet away after only a short delay.

Top Staunton Harold sailor Grahame Newton (5246), who was making a guest appearance in a borrowed Solo, took the first race in which a few of the contenders made an error of course and either retired or went back and corrected their error. Second was another Staunton Harold sailor Andy Foskett (4862) and Nigel Davies (5478) from Draycote was third.

After a hearty lunch the fleet set out for two more races sailed back to back. Grahame Newton secured the event with another impressive win in the second race. This time Andrew Wilde (5492) from Carsington was second with Nigel Davies picking up another third place.

In the third race, Chris Brown (5643) from Draycote stormed into a big lead, which he held onto until the finish. Andrew Wilde took another second place with Grahame Newton in third.

Staunton Harold Solo Open - photo © Nick Threadgill

So, with two wins in his first time out in the Solo, Grahame Newton took the title. Second overall was Andrew Wilde, with Chris Brown in third.

At the presentation the SHSC Solo Fleet Captain Nick Threadgill thanked the OOD Simon Kelsall and his race team and the Laser fleet who had manned the galley and had provided excellent hot breakfasts and lunches. Prizes were presented to the top three competitors with additional spot prizes to Tim Gray and Andy Foskett.

Overall Results: