Classic J Class Solent Race

Summer skies, and temperatures in the twenties might have been missing, but the heat was on in the Solent.

Cutting inside the spectator boats whilst trying to gain the advantage, Ranger ran aground in Thorness Bay. Lionheart, led Valsheda, and the brand new Rainbow, round the windward mark. Four kites popped out, and the fleet charged back down the Solent. It was an awesome site. Spectator boats scattered as Lionheart rounded the leeward mark,hardened up, and accelerated; the others close astern.

In a flash it was over. The J's returned to their moorings, and the Solent emptied. We unfurled the headsail, put the kettle on, and enjoyed the sail home.