Sparking the Competitive Spirit

What began in 1884 by shipwright Benjamin Bénéteau as a company to build sailing trawlers has evolved into a range of popular boats rooted in comfort and accessibility, but in the last forty years, has increasingly entered the competitive sector of the sport too.

But to get people to take their cruiser on the race course, some hand-holding is required. Enter the Beneteau Cup, started over a decade ago to bring together owners and introduce them to “sailing with a purpose” in in San Diego, CA.

Now in its 15th year, with the right guidelines and informative sessions, the event has transformed into the largest one of its kind in the world. To be held this year on September 8-9, this family-friendly program is open to all Beneteau owners, non-owners, coaches and crew for a laid back, educational sailing opportunity.

On the evening before racing, all newer and novice participants have the opportunity to sit in on an education session and learn all there is to know about sailing their boats in a race, what it entails and how to race safely. But mostly, they are encouraged to have fun.

“The Beneteau Cup makes me proud because after Beneteau owners take part in our race, they often enter other races,” explained Beneteau Cup Co-Chair Rick Day. “In a way, we never intended this to be the case, but we like to see it as we’re helping to build sailboat racing in San Diego. It’s a family-friendly, low key race that can give you the confidence to keep going.”

The plan is crafted to keep the experience positive, with only two ocean races on Saturday before the fleet collects at San Diego Yacht Club for a massive raft-up, dinner and party. Just enough energy is needed Sunday to complete one race within San Diego Bay.

Beneteau Cup Co-Chair Barret Canfield looks forward to the competition. “This regatta encourages new racers into the sport and introduces sailboat racing to their crews. It has been interesting to watch how this event sparks the competitive spirit in new sailors and seasoned veterans.”

Event details… click here.

Source: Casey Allocco, SDYC