Buchans win Star Western Hemispheres

Published on May 25th, 2019

San Diego, CA (May 25, 2019) – Carl Buchan, sailing with his son Jamie Buchan, topped the field to claim the Star Class 2019 Western Hemisphere Championship, winning the final race to close strong over the 26-boat fleet. Entering the day with a one point lead, their 8-1 during another light, dicey outing proved too much for their competition to overcome.

“The last couple of breaks went our way and being consistent was our main strategy,” noted Carl Buchan. “The first race today we took off after the start and then just couldn’t get out of our own way. The second race we needed to pass a couple of boats and thankfully we did. Both races had a lot more position changes today and the racing was really close.”

The shifting wind direction, spotty clouds at sea, and a cool 5-8 knot breeze made it challenging for many of the sailors to hold their position.

“The races are always challenging, but this week was interesting because each day was different,” said Buchan. “I try to look at the variety of conditions as a benefit. You have to take each challenge and try to make the best of it, looking at it like an opportunity. In the Star, everybody is pretty even in the different conditions.”