WindCheck Magazine Vineyard Race a Test of Patience and Endurance

Stamford Yacht Club’s RC boat on station © Rick Bannerot/ OntheFlyPhoto.net

The 90th Vineyard Race kicked off with a bang on Friday, August 30, as nearly 80 boats charged down Long Island Sound. The conditions were anything but calm—a choppy sea and a stiff easterly wind in the mid-teens made for a thrilling start. But as the race progressed, the wind died down, turning the event into a test.

The last boat to cross the finish line was Osprey, a J/35 owned by Gregory Kotzas, completing the 238 nm Vineyard Course in 2 days, 9 hours and 3 minutes.

The Stamford Yacht Club’s lawn was transformed into a festive hub for the awards party. Under a sprawling white tent, sailors and club members feasted on delectable finger foods and refreshing drinks. The trophies were plentiful, honoring winners in ten divisions and awarding several prestigious perpetual prizes.

Supporting Sponsors of the 90th running of Stamford Yacht Club’s Vineyard Race include Mount Gay Barbados Rum, Z Sails, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, William Raveis/Joshua Weisman, Wofsey Rosen, and Team One Newport. Contributing Sponsors are Half Full Brewery and Regatta Premium Craft Mixers.

For more information, visit stamfordyc.com/Sailing/Vineyard_Race_(1). ■

Breezy conditions at the start were short-lived. © Rick Bannerot/OntheFlyPhoto.net

Thin Man, a J/99 co-skippered by Basia Karpinska and Todd Aven and representing City Island Yacht Club and Storm Trysail Club, finished third in Class 6 PHRF DH. © Rick Bannerot/ OntheFlyPhoto.net