When We Sail
Sunday sailing
In general, we sail every Sunday during the season (check the calendar for specifics).
Sunday sailing requires at least one volunteer to run race committee (RC) and one volunteer to organize the post-race social (Party Planner). All members are required to signup for RC and Party Planning at least once during the season.
Saturday Sailing
We also conditionally sail on Saturdays (except in February) if we have a quorum of 7 sailors signed up by the prior Thursday. This allows us time to organize chase boat operators.
Saturdays early in the season are often dedicated to coaching the fleet and are a good opportunity to practice boat handling and racing.
Saturdays also require a race committee volunteer. There is no after-race social, so there is no need for a party planner.
Weather & cancelation guidelines
The decision to sail is the responsibility of the Race Committee.
Our hard guideline for a no-sail day is under 28°F or sustained over 20 knots. Higher gusts are noted and considered when its on the edge.
Cancelations for obviously unsailable conditions should happen no later than 9:30 am on race day, and ideally should happen the night before. This helps accommodate sailors and chase boat operators who have a long travel time to get to Beach Point.
Sometimes conditions are on the edge. As many are eager to sail, sometimes the decision is made on the dock at noon. Individual sailors are encouraged to decide for themselves if they feel comfortable given the predicted conditions to go out or not. Its important to know your limits as well and not rely on the RC so as not to endanger yourselves or others.
There is always behind-the-scenes discussions between a variety of locals, experienced fleet sailors, and those running Race Committee. Common sense should always prevails, as windless and cold can be more dangerous than windy and cold. As experience builds over the season, there is a tendency to push the wind envelope more than earlier in the season.
We are here to support and don't be shy about asking questions or picking up the phone. The day-of or even at the dock calls are the hardest, but safety and common sense always must prevail.