Allen Solo class Midland Series at Chase Sailing Club

Second overall Neil Wilkinson - Allen Solo class Midland Series at Chase SC © Beth Tate

On Saturday 20th September, Chase Sailing Club rolled out the red carpet for the Allen Solo Midland Series, and what a day it was. With a glorious forecast of sunshine and a steady breeze of 10-15 knots, conditions couldn't have been better for some top-class sailing.

The event was twinned with the Lightning Nationals, and with the entire lake given over to racing, everything was set for a memorable regatta. The event saw a competitive fleet of eleven Solo sailors take to the water, representing both visiting clubs and home talent from Chase.

The race team, led by OOD Graham Flynn and assisted by AO Paul Lester, had been meticulous in their preparation. Marks were laid out the day before and fine-tuned in the morning, allowing for a slick setup and a prompt 11 a.m. start. After a clear and concise competitor briefing, it was straight to business, three races scheduled, one before lunch and two back-to-back in the afternoon.

1st Lady, Linda Instone - Allen Solo class Midland Series at Chase SC - photo © Beth Tate

Race 1 saw Jonathan Swain (Carsington SC, Sail No. 6055) lay down a marker immediately. Sailing fast and clean, he took the win, though the pressure was on from Neil Wilkinson (Shustoke SC, 5210) and Richard Instone (Chase SC, 6076), who both showed pace in the shifty conditions.

Race 2, there was a real mix at the top of the fleet. Once again, Swain proved unstoppable, taking his second victory of the day. Behind him, Gareth Wilkinson (Chelmarsh SC, 4792) found his form to secure 2nd place, with local sailor Linda Instone (Chase SC, 5837) putting in a superb performance to take 3rd, the leading lady of the day and a crowd favourite with the home supporters.

Race 3, the breeze had settled into a perfect strength, and the racing became even more tactical. Swain once more demonstrated his mastery, crossing the line first for the third time. Behind him, Neil Wilkinson (Shustoke SC, 5210) and Gareth Wilkinson (Chelmarsh SC, 4792) were locked in battle with Richard Instone (Chase SC, 6076), all fighting hard for the podium spots. It was tight, racing that kept the spectators glued to the action right to the finish.

Third overall, Richard Instone - Allen Solo class Midland Series at Chase SC - photo © Beth Tate

When the numbers were crunched, there was no doubt about the champion: Jonathan Swain (Carsington SC), with an impressive net score of 2 points. Behind him, the fight for the podium was incredibly tight, with Neil Wilkinson and Richard Instone both finishing on 5 points, giving Wilkinson 2nd place overall on last raced sailed. Gareth Wilkinson completed the top four on 6 points, just one adrift.

Further down the fleet, there were solid performances from Linda Instone, whose 3rd in Race 2 was a highlight, and Harry Marlow (Shustoke SC, 4315), who sailed consistently to finish with 9 points overall. Mark Blackham (Chase SC, 4389) and Dave Watkins (Chase SC 4676) also showed flashes of brilliance, battling hard in the middle of the pack.

At the prize-giving, Commodore Chris Anderson thanked all the volunteers, race team, safety crews, galley staff, and competitors for making the day such a success. A huge thank you also went to Allen, the generous series sponsor, for supplying the prizes that made the celebrations even more special.

The prizes were presented in front of a packed clubhouse, with smiles all round after a truly memorable event. Winner Jonathan Swain gave a gracious speech, praising the warm welcome, excellent organisation, and the close competition out on the water — a perfect end to a fantastic day at Chase Sailing Club.

Winner overall, Jonathan Swain - Allen Solo class Midland Series at Chase SC - photo © Beth Tate

Overall Results: