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It was forecast to be a cold day with northerly winds, but no one could have predicted the final outcome in the sailing or the weather. The warm and friendly atmosphere at North Staffs Sailing Club made the journey worthwhile, offering traditional bacon sandwiches, and an introduction to some local favourites (oat cakes). For the first Solution Open of the season a total of 5 visitors made the journey, giving 7 boats in all. Several members of the fleet also turned up to support the event.
With the first race underway Butler (North Staffs) was first to the windward mark followed by Clarke (Seafarers SC) and Pickstock (Rudyard Lake SC). Butler, on the first lap, pulled away to an early lead followed by Clark and Steven (???????) as Pickstock capsized. On the run from the windward mark on the second lap Butler capsized allowing Clarke to take the lead followed by the rest of the fleet. Butler worked his way up through the fleet finishing a close second to Clark with Keeling (North Staffs) third.

The wind increased for the second race with Butler capsizing just before the start. Pickstock got off to a flying start and was first round the windward mark followed by Manning (Delph SC) and Clarke. Meanwhile Butler was making his way from the back of the fleet to challenge Pickstock and Manning who finally caught Pickstock and overtook her on the third lap. Determined not to loose the lead Pickstock overtook Manning with excellent downwind speed to claim first position, with Butler catching Manning to finish second and Manning a close third.

This set up a very exciting final race. Clarke with a 1st and 5th, Pickstock with also a 1st and 5th and Butler two 2nd .

The final race of the day was as challenging as the sky above. The clouds darkened, the wind was building all proving too much for Tarry (Rudyard Lake SC) and Manning who had other commitments. Butler was first at the windward mark followed by Clarke who took advantage of the weather conditions and passed Butler on the first reach. Meanwhile Keeling and Pickstock were battling out for third place. Clarke built up a good lead but missed a big shift on the penultimate beat allowing Butler to close up behind him. Clarke stayed just in front with 3 boat length lead at the last mark leaving a short beat to the line. Clarke hardend up on Starboard after the mark and Butler tacked on to Port and picked up a big lift. Both tacked and Butler crossed the line 2 feet in front to take win. Pickstock pulled away from Keeling to secured third place.

As the boats returned to the slipway the clouds darkened and snow fell, Clarke was unsure what the white stuff was.

Final position:-
1st Dave Butler (North Staff SC), (2,2,1)
2nd Kev Clarke (Seafarers SC ), (1,5,2)
3rd Wendy Pickstock (Rudyard Lake SC) (5,1,3)
4th Stan Keeling (North Staff SC) (3,4,4)

Thank you to all at Stanley for your great hospitality, and the pie & pea supper.