Leiter Cup

June 27, 2011

The U.S. Junior Women's Singlehanded Championship for the Nancy Leiter Clagett Memorial Trophy got underway at this weekend at Richmond YC. The Championship is sailed by 13-18 year old girls in Laser Radials. The 57 competitors came from all over the country, including 11 from the Bay Area.

The racers arrived at RYC on Saturday to register, and the out-of-towners were picked up by their host families. Sunday and Monday were clinic days, starting with onshore classes and exercises during the morning, followed by on-the-water coaching in the afternoon.

After lunch on Sunday, the girls rigged up their boats and went out on the water for the first time. ©2011 norcalsailing.com

On Sunday, Alec Payne, who has now participated in four Junior Championships, modestly commented, “It was a little lighter than I expected.” Still, several boats capsized and at least seven got their masts stuck in the mud - not an unusual occurrence. RYC provided stickers and 'Certificates of Mudworthiness.'

Out in the channel. ©2011 norcalsailing.com

An ebb tide churned up 2-3 foot chop. The smart ones went out with practice sails. One of the three groups headed over to the slightly more protected Keller’s Cove. Seattle area’s Laura Smit noted, “It was light where we were.”

Haley Fox from Lauderdale YC in Florida splashing through the cold Bay chop. ©2011 norcalsailing.com

Just luffing around. ©2011 Richmond YC

Still in their wetsuits after Sunday's sailing, the girls were put through yoga poses and stretches by Harry Legum of Annapolis Sailing Fitness. This is upward-facing dog. ©2011 Richmond YC

Sunday evening everyone headed over to Golden Gate YC for dinner and a lecture on Cup racing on the Bay, with the Cup itself on display and the replica of America tied up to the guest dock.

Racing begins on Tuesday and runs through Thursday. They probably weren't expecting to sail in rain at this time of year in sunny California, which is predicted for Tuesday and Wednesday.

For more information, see US Sailing. This story wraps up here, and we've also posted a photo gallery.