There has been a sizable increase in the Aero fleet at Notts County Sailing Club so the club decided to add RS Aeros and Hadron to the Solo Open. The extra numbers made for a successful event with over 30 entries. Entrants came from far and wide with many local midland clubs along with entries from Lymington and Snetisham, Queen Mary, Woodbridge and Weymouth.

The weather was kind with sunshine most of the day, it was relative warmth and the wind varied from light to moderate, meaning there were some spills at times. Race Officer Rebecca Ogden provided an interesting course with reaches and runs, and a good beat, she was aided by many other members of her family in safety boats and as Assistant Race Officer, along with many other volunteers. One race was held before lunch with two afterwards. 

The largest fleet was the Solo with 14 entries, The racing amongst the Solos was very close, with the first three spending most of the day swapping places. Martin Honnor (Ogston) winning the first race, Chris Brown (Draycott) the second, and overall winner Nigel Davies (Draycott) the final race. The three first places were on equal points after discard showing just how close the racing was. 

The Aeros had one less entrant and although Grahame Newton (Staunton) won with a string of firsts there were others snapping at his heels. Second place was taken by Notts County sailor Alan Beaton two points behind, with Tim Rush from Notts County third, first lady was Isis Bemrose also from the home club in forth.

The Hadron H2 saw a good turnout of seven boats with Richard Le Mare (Castle Cove) winning all three races to take the open. Tim Garvin from Queen Mary was second, with Andrew McGaw (Grafham) third, all finishing each race in that order.

Prizes were awarded thanks to sponsorship from  Allen (Solo), Aero (Rooster) and Hadron.

Results: Solo – Aero – Hadron 

yachts and yachting report