Laser North Americans coming to California

Over 160 Laser sailors from 26 nations are anticipated for the 2018 Laser North American Championship on July 12 to 15 in Long Beach, CA. In addition to Laser Standard, Laser Radial, and Laser 4.7 titles, some will by vying to qualify for the 2019 Pan American Games to be held during July in Lima, Peru.

“Alamitos Bay Yacht Club has a long tradition of hosting international regattas, bringing the best sailors in the world to Long Beach,” explained Principal Race Officer Mark Townsend USA, IRO. “ABYC last hosted the Laser North American Championship in 2014. With the Olympic Games sailing competition due to be contested in these same waters in 2028, we are expecting even more of the world’s top sailors to be heading to Long Beach over the next 10 years.”

A total of 12 races are scheduled on trapezoid courses held inside the Long Beach Breakwater near the Belmont Pier, or in the outside waters of San Pedro Bay.

Competitors include a strong North American contingent, such as defending 2017 Laser champion Malcolm Lamphere, and runner-up in the 2017 Laser Radials, Sophia Reineke. The world-wide field of competitors also includes many from Central and South America, and the Caribbean, as the regatta will serve as the country qualifier for next year’s Pan American Games.

The Pan Am Games provide Olympic style competition for athletes from 41 recognized nations of the Americas – however there are slots for only 16 contenders in the 2019 Games. The ABYC 2018 Laser NA regatta is the second of just three opportunities to qualify.

Optimal conditions are forecast for the North Americans. July is one of the best times of the year to sail in Long Beach, with a westerly sea breeze which builds each afternoon to the mid-teens. The current sunny, warm conditions are expected to continue in Southern California, fueling the prevailing winds and providing thrilling competition.

Event details – Entry list

Source: Betsy Crowfoot