2023 Soling 1M National Championship Regatta (NCR)
by Ron Stephanz
Sun Coast Model Sailing Club hosted the 2023 Soling 1M National Championship in Punta Gorda, FL on February 10-12. The weather cooperated for the first two days with winds ranging from 10-15mph. Sunday was another thing though. Racing started with winds around 18mph but with much stronger gusts. Sadly, it was decided to cancel racing for Sunday as the forecast was for ever increasing winds through the day -- which ended up being true.
Peter Feldman continued his dominance, beating defending champion Don Ouimette, followed by AMYA President Chuck Millican. Filling out the five place podium were Ron Prokop and Sean Fidler, with Ron winning the tie-breaker.
A hearty “Thank You” goes out to the numerous SCMSC volunteers -- as many as 11 on a given day -- for their tireless efforts. They made this a successful regatta. Everything from mark watchers, finish recorders, rescue boat and food presentation allowed the skippers the ability to concentrate on racing. The race management was handled skillfully by Art Hawes, Chad Kasten, and crew. A raffle was held with two half kits provided by 3DRC Boats and K&K Hobbies in Port Charlotte, FL. Additionally, a suit of sails by Chuck Millican and another by Pat Dion were raffled off. Thank you to these sponsors for supporting our regatta. Summary of 2023 Soling 1M NCR, Gold Chevrons
Date: February 10-12, 2023
Location: Punta Gorda, FL
Host Club: Sun Coast Model Sailing Club
# of Entries: 24
Winds: 8-20+mph
Races Completed: 30 heats of which each skipper raced in 20
Scoring System: Low Point System
Regatta Committee & Valuable Assistants: Art Hawes RD; Chad Kasten ARD; Dave Petersen Starter; Paul Newfield Scorer; Pauline Lacroix Breakfast and Lunches; Dave Spencer Rescue; as well as, numerous SCMSC volunteers handling Mark Watchers, Race Finish Recorders, etc.