Doors open for 2021 Transpac Race

The 51st edition of the 2225-mile Transpac Race will begin in 2021 on July 13, the first of three waves of starters for one of the world’s oldest and longest classic ocean courses. First raced in 1906 and organized every two years by the Transpacific Yacht Club (TPYC), this race starts off Point Fermin in Los Angeles to finish just south of Diamond Head in Honolulu.

Already 22 entries are on the entry list, representing all areas of the US, Canada and beyond, and organizers from TPYC will be expecting more soon as sailors look ahead to their planning to go back out to sea to race.

“We think this solid start to our entry list is a sign that everyone who has been unable to sail much this year is really looking forward to get out and go sailing again,” said TPYC Commodore Jim Eddy.

“Sailing to Hawaii is not an easy task but the challenge is worth it and it will be a refreshing and welcome change for all. We have a fantastic team of organizers both on the mainland and in Hawaii who stand ready to assist all those interested to join us next year, especially those who are doing this race for the first time.”

The majority of those on the entry list have already competed in one or more Transpacs, a testimony to this race’s enduring appeal. It is not an easy race – it is long and will take most teams 10 days or more to complete – but the progressive change in conditions that start from cold, wet coastal reaching to become warm tropical downwind sailing is a joy for all who have raced this course.

“There are as many reasons to do this race as there are boats in the race,” admits Eddy. “For last year’s 50th edition we thought most of the entries would be those coming back to look for nostalgia, yet most were doing the race for their first time.

“I think in this next cycle we will see a lot of emphasis on friends and family given what we all have been facing this year, and the rewards of meeting awaiting friends and family in Hawaii who don’t do the race is always popular.”

With the format of three separate start days – Tuesday, July 13 for the slowest boats, Friday July 16 for the mid-speed entries, and Saturday July 17 for the fastest boats – the event gets compressed at its end in anticipation of the Awards presentation ceremony scheduled for Friday, July 30.

Seaworthy monohulls over 30 feet in length are eligible to enter Transpac 2021, as are offshore multihulls 45 feet in length and longer. All boats must meet eligibility and safety requirements defined in the official Notice of Race.

Event information – Race details – Entry list