Masters line-up for San Diego showdown

One of San Diego Yacht Club’s most prized regattas returns to South San Diego Bay October 18-20 for the 2019 International Masters Regatta (IMR). An invited group of 11 Master sailors from across North America will come for a three-day battle in a rotation of J/105s.

The title of the event originates from the rule that participating skippers must be over the age of 60. For those on the cusp, the International Masters Regatta can be seen as a rite of passage after their long, hard-working sailing careers. This year, the entry list features rookies and veterans; returning skippers from 2018 include David Gould, Tad Lacey, William Petersen and Andy Roy.

With defending champion Dave Perry missing, returning skippers Andy Roy (2nd) and William Peterson (3rd) will be back to claim their name on the trophy.

“We have the same crew as last year, all old sailing buddies from Toronto,” said Roy. “Of particular note is our main trimmer, Scott ‘Scooter’ Collinson. We’ve done many miles on the water together including: America’s Cup trials, Admiral’s Cup, Canada’s Cup, multiple Farr 30 Worlds, and a host of other regattas.

“Also on the crew is David Jarvis – former Volvo Ocean Race crew. Fraser Howell, Rob Emery, and Andrew Van Nostrand have raced competitively for many years and are all very good sailors.”

New to the Masters Regatta are skippers Terry Timm, Chuck Sinks, Scott Mason, Scott Harris, and Mary Brigden Snow (the only female skipper in the regatta).

“Sailing has been my passion ever since being exposed to the sport on an E Scow on Torch Lake in Northern Michigan while attending Camp Hayo Went Ha,” shared Timm. “The thrill of leaving port sailing to the starting line or cruising in the Caribbean never ceases.

“Being invited to sail in the SDYC International Masters Regatta is very special and much appreciated. Many of my best friends are San Diego sailors that get to enjoy a world class sailing venue every day of the year.”

The International Masters Regatta, while known for its competitive sailing, is also known for its fun atmosphere and camaraderie. “The camaraderie between the skippers and crews is really fun that weekend,” notes Regatta Chair Tim Fuller. “The overall sailing ability out on the course is always impressive and the races are always very close.

“One of the best traditions of the weekend is the post-race social Roast on Saturday night. The skippers introduce their crews and needle around with the other teams. It’s high-spirited and fun to be a part of.”

In 2013, the perpetual trophy for the International Masters Regatta was gifted and dedicated by Malin and Roberta Burnham at the regatta banquet. The trophy is a beautiful original art piece created by Don Freedman of Nantucket Island and features a nautical inspired clock detailed with ships’ instruments.

Event details – Entry list – Facebook

Source: Casey Allocco, SDYC