Shilshole Blog

6-22-22 update:  congratulations to Jonathan McKee from E dock and Team Pure & Wild for their 1st place finish. Day 5: Pure and Wild for the win, secret weapons, breakfast lasagna – Race to Alaska (r2ak.com)

It’s like the Iditarod, on a boat, with a chance of drowning, being run down by a freighter, or eaten by a grizzly bear. There are squalls, killer whales, tidal currents that run upwards of 20 miles an hour, and some of the most beautiful scenery on earth.  We have several boats from Shilshole-check out the race on the link below…

R2AK Race Feed – Race to Alaska

Many boaters at Shilshole race their own boats or crew for others. There are major (all day) races almost every weekend during the spring and fall and more relaxed (1-2 hour) races during the summer.  If you have never tried racing, you are missing out on a great way to improve your sailing skills; which will greatly enhance your cruising -you’ll sail more efficiently,  sail faster and do less motoring.

We have a couple local clubs that give you an opportunity, with no experience or cost as crew, to get out on the water and work as a team. It’s as simple as showing up on time, having warm dry clothes and lifejacket, listening to the skipper and the more experienced crew, and showing an interest. It’s not a party; its a fun, competitive team sport.

Check out their web sites for how to get involved…

The Race to Alaska has been cancelled for the 2nd year in row, so the Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend has announced a race around Puget Sound.  The WA360-starting in PT, running south into Puget Sound til you can go no further, turn around and do the same to Point Roberts, then  back home. In 2 weeks. Registration opens Jan 15th.

the route…

• Have you ever wondered how to get started in sailboat racing?
• Do you think you have to be experienced or knowledgeable before you race?

Here’s your chance to try it out!  We are fortunate to have the CYC clubhouse and their programs here at Shilshole.  It’s a great opportunity to get on a boat, learn some skills by watching others, and have fun with new found friends!  It may be your thing, it may not, but entry is easy and free.  Just bring a good attitude, a willingness to learn, and your life jacket and sailing clothes.  Check out CYC’s web site to find a boat, who to contact and what the racing schedule is this summer!

There is a great article by Andy Schwenk, pg 38, in Sept’s 48 Degrees North about crewing-Getting and Keeping Rides on Other Peoples Boats!  The magazine is free and can also be picked up at the Marina Office lobby or local marine stores.

Here’s a previous post…Have you ever been sailboat racing?