The Mirror fleet returned to Netley, after a very successful Nations. The big home fleet helped boost the entry to 28 boats. Most were looking forward to slightly less than the 25knots every day at the Nationals!
Saturday dawned with a gentle breeze and sunshine, but anyone with a weather app knew this was a false dawn. The fleet started in around 10 knots that built throughout the day to a solid 15+ by race 3. By this point my crew/son no longer believed me that's its not always windy at Netley!
In race, James and Meris Date lead the fleet at mark one, with Ian and Ted Dobson finding a way past, which they held to the finish.
There were some massive shifts and big bands of pressure for race 2 and 3, which Nick and Seb Charles used to their advantage, working there way to the front in both. They were followed by Ian and Ted and James and Rhys Stuart in race 2.
These two boats then swapped position in race 2 to close out a great days sailing. Special mention also to Ian and Elizabeth Sharps who lead round the windward in race 3.
With most of the fleet camping or staying locally the fleet then retreated to the club of a BBQ, and then the adults propped up the bar while the kids played Manhunt, Giant Zenga and Table Football.
The entry system (including booking Campervan and tent spaces) for the 2026 Northern Area Championship on 6th & 7th June at Sunderland YC is now open. Come and sail with the dolphins 
The Sailing Instructions (SIs) for the Southern Area Championships at Netley SC on the 16th & 17th May has been published and can be downloaded via the link.
Online entry on the Netley SC website event page.
No report yet, so just photos and results.
Our joint Mirror & ILCA Open is fast approaching on Sunday 10th May.
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