Racing into 2012

January 9, 2012

Last week, we asked readers to tell us what races they were most looking forward to in 2012.

Paul Sutchek, who crews on Richard vonEhrenkrook's Cal 20 Can O'Whoopass, answered, "Hmmm, the SSS series, YRA OYRA series, Three Bridge Fiasco, hopefully the Double Damned race that I bought a truck for two years ago... I've always wanted to do the Silver Eagle also."

Gary Ryan, who sails the Hanse 341, iliohale, is looking forward to "Three Bridge Fiasco of course - first race of the season and it is just so much fun!"

Kate Helsper Barr wrote, "So many to choose from plus crewed vs. doublehanded. My favorite doublehanded race hands down is Three Bridge Fiasco. I sail Voyager, a Beneteau First 34.5, which I own with my husband. However, racing it eight months pregnant isn't an option. My favorite crewed race is Drake's Bay, aboard Ohana, a Beneteau First 45.5. It's a guaranteed party every year. Plus, Ohana tradition has many of her male crew taking a swim."

"Has to be BAMA's Double Handed Farallones Race Saturday March 31," wrote Bob Naber, who owns the Kantola 38 trimaran Devoras.

"South Tower baby!" said Marianne Armand of Club Nautique. "I would love to return this race to its former glory. Or at least have people know about it again. The Delta Ditch Run used to be a feeder for this race, but, as we all know, now the Ditch has taken over in popularity. The South Tower is like the Ironman for the Bay. It's a bit brutal, but you get a real sense of accomplishment when you finish. Not to mention bragging rights!" Like the Ditch Run, the South Tower Race is a Stockton Sailing Club event.

Sounds like the longer, more challenging regattas are the ones dearest to racers' hearts. As for us, we'll see you somewhere around three bridges on January 28.