Starter for west coast offshore season

The 130nm Islands Race expects to attract over 25 boats for the ninth edition of this Southern Californian offshore contest on February 16-17, 2018. Starting in Long Beach Harbor, competitors then head west of the Santa Catalina and San Clemente Islands before finishing in San Diego.

Roy Disney’s Andrews 70 Pyewacket will return to defend their 2017 victory and prepare for the 1000nm Puerto Vallarta Race in March.

“Every year the Pyewacket team treats the Islands Race as our prelude to the big races we have, especially the Mexican races that come so close after the finish in San Diego. We always put together our best team and best effort for the Islands Race because we know our competitors are too.”

The Islands Race offers a taste of what offshore racing is like in Southern California. “For some racers this may be the longest offshore race they do and for others it is a great tune-up for the PV or Cabo races that follow,” notes co-chair Daniel Giessmann. “Being early in the season also allows for a wide variety of weather scenarios to keep navigators busy. I enjoy being the chair to help promote and grow west coast offshore racing.”

The race can be followed with the YB Tracking and San Diego Yacht Club will host the award ceremony on Saturday, February 17 with food and drinks for competitors beginning at 3pm or later depending on when the majority of boats complete the race.

Details: http://www.islandsrace.com