Sunny Calshot

On the 11th Aug 10 of us met at Calshot for a great week of windsurfing, cycling and socialising. Camping were John & Deborah, Simon, James, Martin, Maurice & Barbara, Joe, Nick R, and myself. Most arrived in good time to get some time on the water, and we were also joined by Owen for the day. HT was 11.30 and all got afloat before the water disappeared from the lagoon at 3pm. It was a fairly strong gusty wind and not everyone sailed the whole time. In the evening we were joined by Andy who was staying at a local B&B, for a ride to the Jolly Sailor for a meal.

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On the Wed we were joined by Owen, Dave R (with dinghy) Steve and Diane. 10 of us launched at 11.00 for a downwind sail to Ashlett creek, and lunch at the Jolly Sailor again. The wind was a bit stronger than predicted and still gusty, so a couple decided to turn back leaving 8 arriving for lunch. Dave was having problems with his dinghy and also turned back, I had committed the cardinal sin of leaving my harness on the beach and got half way before noticing, it was easier to carry on than turn back. Luckily for me Maurice decided not to sail back and called Barbara for a lift back and she reunited me with my harness, I fully accept being awarded the wooden spoon for this.

After a pleasant lunch the remaining 7 managed to exit the creek without too much difficulty, and had a good beat back to base, its much easier when hooked in! The afternoon was still warm and breezy and the tide up, so most carried on sailing.

There was a Solar Eclipse in the evening and we were joined by Dave G for a non BBQ (banned due to the fire risk) gathering to watch this spectacle.

Thursday dawned even warmer so it was decided Dave's planned bik

e ride would start at 9.00. The route was intended to take in Lepe for coffee and then on to Bucklers Hard and back. In the event it was getting pretty warm and the wind had picked up, so everyone bar Dave returned for another great days action on the water, including Andy, Barbara and Deborah on their Sups. In the evening we gathered for another non BBQ, and watched yet another spectacular sunset.

We were so lucky for once to enjoy 3 days of hot weather and plenty of wind, summed up perfectly by Martins one word report, AWESOME!!!!!!!

Richard