National Solos at the Virtual RYA Dinghy Show
by Will Loy 26 Feb 2021 09:19 PST
The Solo has developed into a weapon of choice for thousands of sailors © NSCA
Finally, it's that special weekend, the Dinghy Show, Class Association Stands, manned by enthusiastic Committee members, thousands of visitors, great deals on kit and optimism of a superb season ahead... it will probably be perfect sailing weather too.
The NSCA has been working tirelessly, fumbling with Zoom apps and planning an escape from the clutches of the virus.
First up, how do we provide visitors with that very special show experience when it is done via laptop, tablet or phone.
Luckily, the RYA and Y&Y have built a platform that really does give users the show vibe, enter the exhibition halls and wander around, stopping at different stands to chat with like-minded sailors before drifting off, probably getting lost along the way until you stumble onto another booth that takes your fancy.
The NSCA have chosen a stand that we feel reflects the Solo Class, large, like the fleet, vibrant and full of energy, not unlike the competitors that race the Solo, and filled with action and drama, just like the start line at any Solo event.
We were fully aware that this show needed to harness the wonders of the web and fortunately the class has built up an unrivalled video catalogue of Championships from as far back as 2012. An unfortunate by product is that Solo sailors can see how old they have become. The longevity of the Solo is only matched by the length of time sailors stay with the class.
There are also some awesome coaching videos to help you hone your Solo racing skills and you will not even get tired. The link to the Solo Channel is at the bottom of the booth screen, do not forget to click subscribe! Over 400k hits since it started.
There are some exclusive audio videos from HD Sails Andy Davis and North Sails Charlie Cumbley, while the NSCA Concours D'Elegance winner is revealed. While the Show Concours Champion may or may not be a Solo, the class acknowledge and commend those sailors that love, care for and most importantly race their beautiful (mainly wooden) Solos against the mainstream FRP product.
The NSCA booth has a large selection of documents to add to your swag bag, want to meet the team, download the PDF. Yep, less personal but gives you way more time to check out the other show stuff.
Want to enter the National Championships?
- Go to the contents link - Join the Class
- Go to Nationals entry list then....
- Put your name down on the reserve list... 100 entries sold out in 14 days!
Mounts Bay is the venue and we really hope the entry limit will be extended in the run up to the event August 21-27.
There are over ten Committee reps manning the booth over the weekend so click 'chat' and come and say hello. We will be sitting at home in our slippers but will be happy to answer your questions from the comfort of the sofa.
Don't be daunted by the tech... it's not the future, it is NOW.