Star Worlds: Keeping It Real

Amid a trend to squeeze more racing into regattas, the 93rd Star World Championship is not losing sight of the big picture. Among the 74 teams representing 13 nations, only one team can win, but everyone can enjoy the experience.

Their seven day schedule has only six races – one a day with one lay day. Each race day leaves energy for après sailing, but it could be the lay day at the Star World Championship 2016 that will be most remembered.

This relaxing and recovery day started after the third race on day three, where the fleet was whisked upwards to the beautiful views of the Biscayne Bay sunset. All the sailors enjoyed a free bar with appetizers in the 7th-floor showroom of a spectacular new condominium project on the Coconut Grove waterfront.

Amid the sights, the class held its mid event trophy presentation to recognize the winners of the first three races. Class president Lars Grael also took the opportunity to express his appreciation for the many dedicated and longtime Star boat sailors. A real love fest!

The next day all the sailors went to enjoy the historic Stiltsville – a group of wood stilt houses offshore on the edge of Biscayne Ba. A hosted BBQ under sunny skies, with high dives into the beautiful warm, clear turquoise water amid the local dolphins. Plenty of idle sitting, sipping, and sharing stories.

The Star class is always looked upon as the upper tier of competition, and it is on the lay day that these smart and accomplished sailors display their experience. The wisdom and ability to manage pressure and make the shift from high competition to rest, back and forward, requires the kind of skill that keeps people sailing for life.