Start time: Have it your way

From the brilliance of sailmaking icon Butch Ulmer arrives a distinctive format for a new event hosted by Larchmont Yacht Club and Storm Trysail Club: 2023 Bitter Ender Double Handed Race.

Unique to the race, in which the race committee may choose a course from 61 to 86 nm, is the Starting Window which allows the duo teams to select the most advantageous time for their boat to start the race, taking into consideration current and weather forecasts.

The Starting Window for the Bitter Ender race will be three hours long, opening at 1500 and closing at 1800. Larchmont Yacht Club’s Satan’s Toe will be on station for the duration of the Starting Window.

The starting sequence will be as per RRS 26 with the warning signal at 1455 and the Opening of Starting Window at 1500. The Starting Window will remain open until 1800 and will close with one sound.

The signal boat will take the time of each competitor as they cross the starting line without a sound. With the exception of an Individual Recall at the opening of the window, once a boat has crossed the Starting Line her race has started. There are no do-overs!

Competitors do not have to declare an anticipated expected start time. However, they do need to check in prior to their start by sailing past the stern of Satan’s Toe and hailing their sail number.

For the Notice of Race, click here.