Made it through to the other side

Charleston Race Week is back in full force. Coronavirus canceled the iconic spring regatta in 2020, while the ongoing pandemic forced organizers to hold a scaled-back event in 2021. But with conditions improving throughout the United States, Charleston Race Week 2022 will showcase a return to normal.

A fleet of more than 200 boats in 15 classes is expected to descend upon this famous southern coastal city for the 27th edition on April 29-May 1 in Charleston, SC.

“The previous two years were difficult for sailboat racing with numerous regattas being canceled or postponed. It is a testament to the popularity of Charleston Race Week, the commitment of our sponsors and the determination of our competitors that we were able to hold the regatta in 2021 amidst the pandemic,” said event director Randy Draftz.

“We are thrilled to have made it through to the other side and are excited to host a regatta that will be better than ever. Charleston Race Week, which has always been a regatta unlike any other, is making a strong comeback this year.”

Quantum Sails deserves applause and praise for its unwavering support of Charleston Race Week, which has been ongoing for nearly a decade. Quantum’s resources were a major reason why the 2021 regatta was a success despite the inability to conduct social activities.

Quantum Sails will once again play a prominent role in Charleston Race Week 2022 as a primary sponsor and will have numerous personnel on-site to support sailors on and off the racecourse.

“The combination of a great venue, the best competition and amazing social activity is the reason Charleston Race Week is considered by many as the most important annual regatta in the United States,” said Quantum president Ed Reynolds.

“Thanks to excellent management, the event attracts the best sailors – giving racers of all abilities the opportunity to experience top level competition. The unique chance to have access to the top pros in their classes for dock talks, and world-class coaching for debriefs gives people a front row seat to learn from the best.”

With headquarters at the Charleston Harbor Marina & Resort, it will be business as usual with the parties featuring live music and daily racing highlights on the Jumbotron.

“We feel comfortable we can conduct the parties in a safe and responsible manner,” Draftz said. “A big part of Charleston Race Week is the social side and we’re happy the sailors will be able to gather again to enjoy camaraderie and fellowship.”

T2PTV Video Production, featuring cameraman Bruce Nairn and on-course commentator Ashley Love, will be filming on all six courses (four inshore, two offshore) and will put together an exciting highlight package that practically puts viewers onboard the boats.

As always, Charleston Race Week will be providing expert advice, instruction and analysis to all competitors. Daily weather briefings sponsored by Quantum will be streamed online each morning. Leandro Spina, Olympic Development Program director for US Sailing, will conduct the sessions after racing is complete.

Spina has been with US Sailing since 2008 and has been dedicated to identifying and supporting the next generation of American Olympic sailors ever since. In 2018, the United States Olympic Committee named Spina its Developmental Coach of the Year. Spina’s in-depth debrief sessions will be held in-person in front of the Jumbotron and will utilize drone footage.

Charleston Race Week is bringing back the pro-am competition after the races on April 30 as some of the top luminaries in the sport compete aboard RS 21 one-designs on a short course set close to shore.

Event information – Race details – Entry list

Editor’s note: Great to see the event back, though not sure about the new race management program. Do we really need another program for running races? Send your thoughts to editor@sailingscuttlebutt.com.

Source: Bill Wagner