Shilshole Blog

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?

The Leukemia Cup Regatta is an annual sailing event that takes place in Elliott Bay. As the kickoff event of Elliott Bay Marina’s Downtown Sailing Series, the Leukemia Cup Regatta is a casual race meant to bring sailors together over their love of boating and their commitment to fighting blood cancer. Over the last 20 years, the local sailing community has helped raise more than $1.8 million for blood cancer research and patient services.

Enter your boat, or sign up to crew on someone else’s. Or, just donate to your favorite team! It’s for a great cause that probably affects someone you know!

http://www.leukemiacup.org/pages/wa/sea16

Saturday, June 11, 2016
Elliott Bay Marina