The National Solo is a classic, one-design, single handed dinghy. Designed by Jack Holt in 1956,the Solo remains a popular dinghy, sailed at many clubs in the UK, Holland and Australia.
Originally designed in wood, competitive boats are now widely available in Foam Reinforced Plastic (FRP) or composite construction (FRP hull and wood deck) as well as wood.

• Light, double-chined hull
• Constructed from wood, GRP or composite (GRP hull, wooden decking)
• Available as a kit, part-built or complete. Plans available from the RYA for a completely DIY boat
• Keel stepped, stayed mast
• Fully battened sail
• Inward sloping decks for comfortable sitting out
• Most boats have centre mainsheet, but aft sheeting permitted by class rules
• Nationwide Open Meeting circuit
• Championships held alternately in the UK and Holland
• National Championships held annually in the UK, Holland and Australia
• National Inland Water Championship held annually in the UK

Fleet News

I am very pleased to be able to write this as it means that we have a Solo fleet once again at Staunton Harold after a gap of many years. We currently have ten boats in the fleet with a few more in prospect; this time last year there were only two, quite a growth.

Despite being more than 50 years old (the Solo was designed by Jack Holt in 1956), the National Solo class is thriving with around 100 new boats being built each year. Last year the national championship had 95 entries, making the Solo 7th in the list of all classes by nationals attendance. The boat was originally designed for wood construction. Now there are boats in FRP and composite (FRP hull and wood deck) as well as all wood. With so many new boats being built, there is a flourishing second hand market, with boats available in a wide range of prices.

A full programme of national and regional events is held each year for those wanting to test their skills - and Staunton Harold is part of the programme with our own open meeting on 20th October. The Staunton Harold Solo Open is the last event in the 2012 Midland Series so should be an exciting finale. You will see most of the Staunton Harold Solo fleet competing in club racing through the season, and to help us all to hone our skills we have a training evening provisionally scheduled for 25th May.

So, the Solo is a thriving class nationally and a rapidly developing and friendly fleet at Staunton Harold. You would be very welcome if you would like to join us.