A regatta unlike any other

Over the course of nearly three decades, Charleston Race Week has developed a proven reputation that brings sailors back year after year. While ‘location, location, location’ is an integral piece of the puzzle, well-run races in a unique venue as winter fades doesn’t hurt.

The 29th edition will be held April 10-13 with entries spanning 18 classes across six courses. Charleston Harbor, with its tricky currents, has a well-earned reputation as a challenging race course.

A robust turnout in several one-design classes has 29 boats in J/70, 23 in Melges 24, 16 in J/105, 15 in VX One, 14 in J/24 and 10 each in J/22 and Melges 32. Meanwhile, there will be offshore racing for the ORC A and B classes and ofshore pursuit racing in three divisions (non-Spinnaker, A and B). Also, a PHRF inshore fleet features five boats that call Charleston their home port.

“Exceptional racing conditions, a strong sense of community, and a unique blend of competition and celebration are what make this a regatta unlike any other!” reports longtime event director Randy Draftz.

For the third straight year, the daily post-race party will be held aboard the historic USS Yorktown, a floating museum berthed at Patriots Point. Participants and guests will have access to the entire ship, while enjoying refreshments provided by Regatta Craft Mixers, Mount Gay Rum and Mount Pleasant-based Westbrook Brewing.

Staying true to their mission of developing better sailors, Charleston Race Week organizers have brought in National Sailing Hall of Fame inductee and two-time America’s Cup winner Ed Baird to deliver the daily debriefs and assist meteorologist Shea Gibson with the morning forecasts.

Baird will be joined for the debriefs by Marty Kullman, a seasoned professional with Evolution Sails.

“I’m looking forward to joining the racing activities in Charleston again this year,” Baird said. “It’s always challenging to get the strategy right in the current and with the geographical shifts, but it’s a ton of fun to be with so many sailors who are ready to be done with winter and get back on the water. I’m very excited to be part of the action.”

Additionally, Charleston local Greg Fisher, a longtime professional sailmaker, will be out on the water for practice racing and fine-tuning boats each day. Fisher, a current Evolution pro who was just announced as a National Sailing Hall of Fame inductee, has won 25 national, North American and world championships in seven different classes.

Event information – Race details – Entry list