Waiting for normal is not an option

As each region makes progress through the coronavirus pandemic, government restriction on recreation eases and boating becomes more permissible. But with limitations within health guidelines lingering, developing new events for organized activity becomes the focus.

At this point, any effort is worthwhile as there are no bad ideas other than waiting for normal to return. That’s not an option, so here are a couple efforts to mimic:

SORC – Miami, FL:
We realize that the sailing calendar has been placed on postponement for most all of the events planned for this spring and even into early summer. SORC has found a way to get you out on your boats in a safe and socially conscious way.

The Southern Ocean Racing Conference is the Organizing Authority for The Social Distance Race on May 24 which will be governed by the Racing Rules of Sailing, and Miami-Dade county guidance on On-Water Activity.

For boats 21 feet or larger, a pursuit start will commence a 20nm course on Biscayne Bay, with special rules including limits on crew size how boats must remain more than 50 feet apart.

Sailing Inc. – Cleveland, OH:
The Rock the Lake Challenge seeks to promote and encourage participation in the sport of sailing in a format that is flexible and inclusive. The event will consist of multiple race courses along the coastline of Cleveland that competitors can attempt to race any date or time of their choosing between June 1st and August 31st.

No entry fee, and all sailboats with a LOA greater than 21′ are welcome to compete. Scoriong will use PHRF-SS, there will be multiple divisions (Performance, Cruising & Double-handed), and a rating will be provided if a boat does not have a valid certificate.

While the race courses will be defined, the format allows for a competitor to go when they want. If its breeze on at 8 AM on Sunday morning, go sailing! If it’s a gorgeous moonlit Thursday night, go sailing. If the wind / wave set favors an upwind machine, go sailing.

Additional details in this video interview … click here.