2024 Allen Solo Class National Championship and Nation’s Cup at Brightlingsea Sailing Club
Allen Solo Class National Championship and Nation’s Cup 2024 at Brightlingsea Sailing Club – Day 3
22-25 August 2024
The atmosphere in the clubhouse was calm, with most sailors relaxing over coffee while a few adventurous souls braved the rain to prepare their Solos for the day ahead. Conversation buzzed around the realization that rain might last until 2 PM, though the breeze was expected to pick up and shift to the right, providing some anticipation before heading out onto the water.
While waiting for the races to start, I savored a creamy beverage alongside some Maltesers, which perfectly countered the bitterness of the coffee. The race officer had other plans, lowering the postponement flag and sending the fleet onto the water. Dressed in my Aqua Marine offshore gear, I was all set, even if the ankle velcro needed some adjustment.
The shore team’s efficient management ensured competitors were on the water in good time, despite the challenging long beat to the race area. Footage from the deck cameras I had activated likely wouldn’t entertain viewers tonight due to the conditions.
I joined the Jury rib, with Steve Kirby navigating while NSCA Judge Steve Watson kept a watchful eye, undoubtedly pondering any rule infractions. Fortunately, the fleet was behaving well, suggesting they were cautious even with the presence of the judges.
Race 4:
With the wind holding steady at 6-8 knots and a triangle/sausage course set, Race 4 kicked off with a clean start, though the adverse tide held some competitors back. Many boats, particularly local sailors, favored the right side due to port bias.
Simon Derham led at the top mark, followed closely by Charlie Brecknell, Elaine Turner, Alex Butler, Michael Hicks, Jonny Coate, Andy Bines, and Dave Winder in the top ten. The strong tide made it tricky for any sailor attempting to round the top mark. Remarkably, I noticed Dave tacking repeatedly to clear it while Chris Brown humorously noted the movement of the marks.
Butler eventually took the lead, showcasing his skill in these tricky conditions, a point I had noted before the start. The two-lap race concluded with Butler, Derham, Brecknell, Hicks, and Coate taking the top five spots. Notably, Pim van Vugt finished 7th, Cumbley 20th, and Davenport 23rd—indicating some tough choices were made on the first beat.
Race 5:
Despite the dismal weather, with rain pelting down, I managed to sneak a Malteser while observing the racing action, trying not to draw attention. Alex, Kirby’s son, sought assistance for back pain, and after prescribing a solution, we prepared for the next sequence.
The breeze picked up to 12-14 knots, creating a lumpy sea state as the fleet headed upwind with a clear start. Pim van Vugt took an early lead, demonstrating exceptional skill, with Davenport and Cumbley following closely in second and third. The excitement intensified as they barreled down the reach towards the gybe mark.
The top finishers for Race 5 included Gillard in 6th, with Corby and Turner also performing well.
Race 6:
Drama unfolded as the first start was recalled; the fleet was clearly eager. The second start, under black flag rules, saw Cumbley launch from the committee end just in time, capitalizing on available space.
Ultimately, Vugt and Davenport fought a tight battle, leading the three-lap race, with Vugt finishing first and solidifying his performance, while Davenport secured a second place. The rapid reaches provided thrilling moments, with the gybe mark presenting challenges for all competitors.
As the fleet returned to shore for a hearty meal after the last race of the day, Vugt, Davenport, Barnham, Davis, and Gillard rounded out the top five. Overnight, Davenport held a significant lead, but with three more races scheduled, the competition remained fierce. Day 4 greeted us with promises of sunshine and wind, setting the stage for a thrilling conclusion to the championship.
The evening featured a lively prize draw, with appreciation extended to sponsors like KLG, HD Sail, Allen, Noble Marine, Milanes Foils, and North Sails. Their support has been instrumental in enhancing the experience for all sailors involved.
A memorable moment from the evening was Matthew Frary’s generosity in re-gifting his Milanes rudder to a competitor whose own had broken, highlighting the camaraderie within the sailing community.
Oliver Hayes, a seasoned sailor and marine journalist from Southampton, has a profound love for the sea that has shaped his career. Holding a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Portsmouth, Oliver is celebrated for his compelling and insightful storytelling. His work vividly captures the excitement of sailing and the rich maritime heritage of the United Kingdom, making him a respected figure in the sailing community. When not writing, Oliver enjoys exploring the British Isles’ diverse coastlines and participating in local regattas, always on the lookout for his next nautical adventure.