Inaugural race connects with Southern California winter classic

The iconic Hot Rum Series in San Diego, an annual winter tradition for Southern California sailors, will now be assisted by a 75-mile feeder race to deliver yachts south to San Diego. The inaugural Rum Runner race will start from Newport Beach on November 1, taking the fleet offshore to an inflatable mark stationed on the 14 mile bank, with the course then turning for the finish in San Diego.

“The new format will allow the boats to have a more tactical race,” observed San Diego Yacht Club Sail Fleet Captain David Servais. “Also getting the boats a ways offshore puts them in better breeze and opens up passing lanes on the leg to San Diego.”

This race is being held by both Balboa Yacht Club and San Diego Yacht Club. Hot Rum Series dates are November 8, 22, and December 5. Rum Runner race information can be found at the event website here: http://sdyc.org/race/calendar/events/2771