Good news! Since Jefferson County has gone to Phase Two of Governor Inslee’s Safe Start plan we believe there is an opportunity to restart limited racing. Phase 2 allows for groups of up to five to get together out of doors. However it also says that in all phases “…individuals should continue to engage in physical distancing, staying at least six feet away from other people”. The guidelines also say that when distancing is not possible masks should be worn. In a nutshell, we are planning on restarting Wednesday night races with the following caveats:
  1. For smaller boats, crews are limited to single handed, double handed, or households racing together. For larger boats that can social distance aboard, crews are limited to five (Phase 2 maximum). Use of masks is advised when a strict six foot distance can’t be kept.
  2. There will not be any after-race parties or close socializing on the dock. Use of masks on the dock is advised.
  3. Please do not race if you if you have symptoms!
  4. The goal is to keep the racing simple and fun. No spinnakers/flying sails. Jibs only for Tbirds.
  5. There will be one start for all boats until there is a need for separate starts for PHRF and TBirds.
  6. The Race Committee will keep track of results (finish order). There will be no separate results collected based on crew size.
  7. Courses will be a little longer than normal(around 2nm) and we will try for two races per evening.
  8. Course configuration (windward/leeward vs. triangle/random) will be based on demand.
  9. The start/finish will be longer than normal to accommodate various types of boats and experience levels.

The series will start on June 3rd and run until the end of June. Then we will reevaluate based on experience (and/or entering Phase 3) for determining what further racing will look like.

The PTSA Sailing Instructions for 2020 will apply with the addition of crew size and flying sail restrictions.

In case you missed it here’s a 48North article reporting on a US Sailing leadership forum on resuming racing.

Come on out and enjoy the fun.