Solos

THE SOLO CLASS AT BEWL

The Solo dinghy has long been established as an adopted class at Bewl Valley. The boat is a single hander of traditional ‘one design’, originating from the 1950s and designed by Jack Holt. The hull is hard chine, in wood or composite fibre and with a low aspect ratio sail plan, relatively stable and yet exciting to sail. The class at Bewl compliments the more modern and demanding single handed ‘Laser’ by being for the ‘mature sailor’ who wants great competition without the physical demands of a ‘Laser’.

The class has 37 registered boats of which 31 race in the club series, typically 6 to 15 on the start line on a Sunday morning and afternoon.

The Solo fleet has a full racing programme throughout the year. The Southern Championship is held each spring at Bewl and an Autumn Open meeting in October.

This years Championship, due to lack of wind in April, was held on the 3rd of September, it attracted 45 entrants and was won by Michael Sims of Carsington SC with Ian Pinnell of Northampton SC second. The high number of competitors for our open meetings reflects the quality of the club organisation and race management, this together with our wide open water makes Bewl a popular venue.

The Autumn open, for the “Southern Quaich”, in 2010, was competed for by 31 entrants and was won by Godfrey Clark of Fishers Green SC. The 2011 event will be held in October.

During 2009/10 the class has welcomed 7 new members, reflecting the enthusiasm and pleasure of racing Solo at Bewl.

11 events are held in the region each year. Of the 10 club trophies in 2009 there were 6 different winners, 28 members sailed in the racing series.

For more details about the Solo and sailing at Bewl contact the fleet captain Don Buckle on 01580 753368 ( buckle826@btinternet.com)

The Club Office is open 7 days a week and can take your calls between 0900 and 1600. Please ring 01892 890930 if you want more information.

Bewl Solo Fleet Blog