Hadron H2 Solent Trophy event at Warsash Sailing Club - Day 1

Close racing on day 1 of the Hadron H2 Solent Trophy 2022 at Warsash © Keith Callaghan

Chris Hughes' stunning new on day 1 of the Hadron H2 Solent Trophy 2022 at Warsash © Keith Callaghan

While not quite up to last year's record entry of 18 boats for this event, a dozen very keen H2 sailors, including several newcomers, were welcomed by the club which hosted the class's very first Nationals, back in 2017. Unlike last year, the forecast promised moderate breezes for the Saturday, with less for Sunday, and racing got under way at the scheduled time.

Last year's winner and the pre-race favourite, Richard Leftley, shot out from the start line in impressive style - giving the competitors due notice of his dominance. But newcomer to the class Tim Garvin, who is still 'settling in' with his H2, gave notice that he was going to be a force to be reckoned with by snapping at Richard's heels at the weather mark. Also in the mix was Andrew McGaw (never far from the front at open events) and newcomer Josh Hamer. Richard held off multiple challenges from Tim, winning in convincing style as the breeze increased slightly.

Richard Leftley winner of all 3 races on day 1 of the Hadron H2 Solent Trophy 2022 at Warsash - photo © Keith Callaghan

Race 2 had the same two front runners, with Roger Millett finishing in third place. Race 3 might have been similar, but Tim managed to sit on his tiller, which promptly broke, leaving him with no option but to retire. Andrew McGaw jumped into the gap to finish 2nd, with an improving Josh Hamer in third place and Ian Little 4th.

It was a great day's sailing! True champagne stuff and the day was rounded off by a convivial evening at the Club, with everyone looking forward to a less strenuous day on Sunday.

The above gives a brief summary of the day but we have prepared a short video which shows you some of the racing.

Results after Day 1: