2014 is shaping up to be an exciting season for SS23 racing on Narraganset Bay. We have had a couple of boats turn over in the Bristol racing fleet, but still expect to see 12 -14 boats sign up for the Millard Series on Wednesday evenings. On the West Bay,  word is out of a nucleus of at least 5 racers poised to travel to the 3 big events set for 2014 (the North Americans at Bristol YC on July 12th, ‘Round The Hog set for August 2nd, ,and the Herreshoff Classic Boat Regatta to be held  on August 23rd). We will work with the Hospice Regatta (scheduled for early September) to provide a shorter course than around Prudence Island for one design racing. AND, if interest in racing builds on the West Bay side, we will coordinate an East/West Race on a weekend in mid September, date and time to be announced.

Remember, PHRF racing in a sea sprite is fun, and you might win your class. The Sea Sprite 23 has a more than competitive rating. You will need a PHRF rating from NBYA that will cost $35. You can race in your YC’s local PHRF weekly races as well as in the special events run by NBYA  (including their popular Super Tues/Wed/Thurs).  Most organizing authorities for races on the Bay (especially NBYA and MOHOSA) promise a separate start for a one-design fleet that enters 5 or more boats.

We will again award the Nancy Belle Trophy to the best Sea Sprite 23 racer on Narragansett Bay. However, for 2014, we will try a different selection system. Sea Sprite 23 race results from the entire summer from all events scheduled on the Bay will be collected and reviewed by the Executive Board. For events other than the big ones (North Americans, Herreshoff, Millard Series, ‘Round The Hog),  each skipper will keep a record of position finished and how many SS23s were beaten, and will report his/her performance at the end of the season. The Board will be responsible for developing scoring criteria and the selection process.

Best of luck to everyone. Have a ball!