25th Annual Chesapeake Bay Laser Masters

The 25th annual Chesapeake Bay Laser Masters Regatta was held September 9-10. The wind Gods looked kindly on the 39 sailors who put in a total of 11 races. Saturday looked bleak with flat water at 11.00 but 50 minutes later wind came from the east and no time was lost starting the first race. Unbelievably the weather mark was not moved while 6 races were finished. From the signal boat racing was close, and from one sailors perspective a little too close at the leeward mark rounding. While the protest committee was unemployed both days we saw our fair share of alternative penalties taken. After a general recall in the second race the "I" flag
was used and served it's purpose. After racing the sailors and their partners dined on what visitor have described as "the best Yacht Club food in the country" courtesy of Chef Alain.

The forecast on Sunday was more promising with the only question when the wind would arrive. The first race was delayed 5 minutes primarily to allow six stragglers to reach the starting area. Five races were run in short order with the marks moved only once. Many of the racers were regular attendees but we also welcomed a number of newcomers. Results show James Jacob as a fifth time winner, closely followed by another past winner Mike Schmidt. Jon Deutsch ably managed the event taking innumerable photographs as well as having results available before many of the sailors reached shore.

One more time Fishing Bay Yacht Club demonstrated this annual event should be a must on every east coast Laser sailors calendar. Same time, same place? - David Hazlehurst