Cal Maritime takes early lead at Los Angeles Harbor Cup

San Pedro, CA (March 13, 2015) – It was a scorcher in Los Angeles today, with equally hot competition on the course of the eighth annual port of Los Angeles Harbor Cup regatta.

This intercollegiate invitational big boat competition brings together ten of the top teams from around the nation, for three-days of racing in the lively Pacific waters off Pt. Fermin.

The event is raced aboard a fleet of matched Catalina 37 foot sailboats, owned and maintained by the Long Beach Sailing Foundation. Every aspect of the boats, from weight, to equipment, to rig tuning, is kept exactly the same, so as to promote the fairest possible racing.

California Maritime Academy, host of the event, has dominated the series – winning four of the last seven events, since it’s 2008 inception. But with two newcomers and a constant revolution of crew (with seniors graduating and freshmen coming in), Cal Maritime looked ready to topple.

Race One was captured by the US Naval Academy, which led the fleet around the twice-around course, from pole to pole. It was a challenging battle – with three teams OCS (over early) and relegated to the back row for the duration of race. Cal Maritime finished second, and College of Charleston, third.

Race Two belonged to Charleston. They had charged on the scene three years ago, coming in second in their inaugural year, and winning the sportsmanship award. Since then they have been hungry for the Harbor Cup title; “preparing all year long, and looking forward to this event,” according to Coach Ned Goss.

But by Race Three, Cal Maritime had re-established their supremacy, capturing an early lead in the building breeze, and extending it over the 10-boat fleet. In 10 knots of puffy breeze and choppy waters, Cal Maritime sped to a first place finish – and lead in the series – in a thrice-around race. Charleston kept them in their sights capturing second place finish, with third going to USC.

During the day the co-eds feasted on California sunshine and temperatures into the 90s, with pods of dolphin and even a Gray whale transecting the course. Races will continue through Sunday, with shoreside activities at Los Angeles Yacht Club; including dinners with renowned speakers Dawn Riley and Gary Jobson.

Event details – Complete results

Report and photos by event media.