On May 21 and 22 Sharon High School hosted the NIT team race regatta. Schools from Chicago, Norfolk, Annapolis, Seattle, Connecticut, and Massachusetts competed. Team racing pits 3 boats on one team against three on another team in 10-12 minute races on an “N” shaped course. Slowing opponents using wind dynamics and the Rules of Sailing can be as important as simply going fast. It makes for lots of close sailing action. Order is kept by the five umpires who penalize rules infractions immediately after they happen.
Saturday began with no wind. The wind came in at 8-12 MPH in early afternoon and racing continued until 7 PM. Sunday’s wind was dependably 6-10 MPH and the regatta was completed at 65 races.
Race management and umpiring were led by nationally certified officials with very capable assistance from some of MYC’s best sailors. The Sharon High parents provided seemingly non-stop food service with two breakfasts, two lunches, and even emergency pizza when sailing ran late on Saturday.
The Seattle team said “It was the best high school regatta we’ve ever been to.”
Photographer Ben Schill took thousands of photos at the event - to take a peak at the Sharon High Team's photos click here.