Yesterday, we were invited to sail the "beer can races" with our neighbor, Fred, on his beautiful 44 ft. racing sail boat. Since Drew and Kyle have been focused on learning to sail this summer, we thought it would be a great opportunity to have some sailing fun, and see if there might be a forthcoming invitation for them to "crew" on Fred's boat.... hint hint!
The beer can races are not true races at the Coronado Yacht Club, as they might be at other yacht clubs. Mostly, it's a weekly opportunity for sailors to get their boats out and enjoy camaraderie and boating fun. I didn't think to take a photo of all the huge sailboats circling up and getting ready for the start of the race. There was actually a crash, where three jostling sailboats (each in the 40-50 ft range) crashed together! Heck, that'd about send me through the roof... er, deck to be involved in that!
We started in last place, as Fred was smart to hang back from the circling crowds! Fred explained his special racing sails, and how they help to make the boat extra fast, as we quickly sprinted past most of the other boats. By the time we sailed under the Coronado Bridge, we'd eclipsed most all of the 30-some boats.
Rounding the bay towards downtown San Diego, the only sounds being the racing wind in your ears, sails clatter and snapping in the breeze, the rushing of the water as you are bent low enough to reach out and touch it...
The boys weren't expected to do much on their maiden voyage, but were warned they'd be pressed into service on their next trip!
It took 3 men to crew this fine vessel, though Fred said he often takes the boat out on his own. We had a fine time sailing the beer can races on the Coronado Bay. I hope you are having yourself a fine summer too. Drop me a line and let me know what YOU'VE been up to!
