Our friends at the Connecticut River Frostbite Squadron based in Essex, CT, better known as FBYC (Frostbite Yacht Club) are kicking off their 90th season of racing!
“All sailors that are willing to brave a little cold weather are invited to join us for a great season of racing,” says FBYC Secretary Evan Cooper. “Currently we have four active fleets of Etchells, Lasers, Ideal 18s, and JY15s.”
“The club hosts a Spring Series (March 5 to April 30, 2023) and Fall Series (September to Mid-December). Every Sunday at 1300 eastern U.S. this group of hardy sailors makes it way down to the Connecticut River for competitive racing. The Spring season is a great tune-up for the summer keelboat racing season and the Fall season is for those who don’t want to let go of sailing season or don’t want to waste time on the couch watching football. Spectators include bald eagles as the population has rebounded over the years.”
“Our homemade race committee boat is named Fair & Square in recognition of the quality of our starting lines. Our PRO’s slogan is, ‘Race em’ till they puke!’ as there are times when as many as 7 or 8 races per class in a single day are scored. We have an awesome group of volunteers (PRO, mark boat drivers, and scorers). After racing, sailors convene for daily awards, post-race banter, and a warm cup of soup or chili, and libations.”
“If you are interested in volunteering or have a Laser or JY15 that you are interested in donating/chartering, please let us know. We offer 50% off for students as we seek to grow the next generation of our beloved sport! You’ll find registration and additional details at www.fbyc.org. Hope to see you on the starting line!”
