Honoring John B. Thomson, Jr

The 35th annual Manhasset Bay Fall Series (Port Washington, NY) ended this past Saturday with a spectacular “bang” – and not just due to the use of shot guns at the finish. This year’s three day Fall Series (October 19-20, 26, 2013) honored John B. Thomson, Jr., the founder of Manhasset Bay Fall Series and an iconic member of the worldwide sailing community.

The final day of racing was a distance race on Long Island Sound, with the finish set up on Manhasset Bay just in front of John’s home where he was able to watch the finishers cross the line. Also in view was the Port Washington Fire Department boat spraying spouts of water in Red, White and Blue.

To further honor John, Manhasset Bay Fall Series joined forces with the ALS Association to raise money for this terrible disease from which John unfortunately suffers. After racing on the first day, MBYC hosted a fantastic party which included a Silent and Live Auction. The competition on the water carried into the bidding and over $50,000 was raised for the ALS Association.

Among the 43 boats competing was Team Infinity on Conviction, a TP-52 brought over by the USMMA Kings Point Sailing Foundation. Team Infinity was made up of a number of sailors who had sailed with John for many years in the past. The “rock star” crew also included several members of the Thomson family.

As always, Manhasset Bay Fall Series had great breeze over the three days, with the second Saturday seeing gusts to 30 knots. Six races were completed, with the fleet competing in IRC, PHRF, HPR, and one design.

The regatta was a huge success and the fundraising was great, but the highlight of the three days was the tremendous smile seen on John’s face! That smile was the big winner of Manhasset Bay Fall Series 2013.

Click here for results. The Manhasset Bay Fall Series 2014 will again be a 3 day event on October 18, 19 and 25. – Jayme Strauch