Fleet214s skipper Paul Evendon on the Hobie 18

H16 fleet setting up their start position 1 min prior to start

The owners of local Seattle Dealer Hobie Cat Northwest have hosted a great regatta for many years.  Both Dan and Kevin raced the Hobie scene and know what makes an event successful - be organized, provide a great venue, have the local fleet throw a party, and pick a great venue.  You could tie in the cliché, "open your doors and they will come". 

Venue - The sailing club is located on Lake Washington and situated on the same property of the local Hobie Dealer.  Currently, the facilities do provide a changing room and washroom. The compound is large enough for everyone to rig the boats and the locals will help you rig the mast while telling you your rudders are on backwards.  The local fleet has every class covered with H16, H17, H18, Tiger, and Waves.

Friday Night - Many Vancouver people head down on Friday after work or mid day.  If you leave around 5pm you should pull in by 8:30pm considering an average border crossing.  The gates at the main entrance are open late so pull in and follow the Hobie signs.  You may encounter the security block at the bridge tunnel that consists of a 4in metal pipe standing up in the middle of the road.  Simply lift out the pipe, drive through, and put it back after you.  Skippers and locals will be in the gated boat yard rigging their boats and having a few pops. People can stay in the compound and sleep overnight. It is similar to sleeping in the Jericho parking lot and using the JSCA washrooms.

Saturday Sailing - Registration is typically around 9-10am. Skippers Meeting may be around 10:30am.  First race could be 11:15am.  Last race depends on wind. Check back for a NOR later.

The wind on the lake has always been good and by May the weather will be warm.  as you can tell from the pictures, crews are out in shorts and t-shirts in full spray.  The start line and course are close to the launch area so guests can see the race unfold. Be sure to bring a snack for on the water as sailing runs all afternoon.

Saturday Night Party - Last year, and every year, the dealer and fleet throw a great dinner and party. Lots of everything including tall stories.

Sunday Racing - Racing may start around 10:30am so rig your boat early.  Last race could be around 2:45pm.  People are on hand to help you de-rig and prep for a safe travel home

Location - The Seattle Sandpoint Sailing center is located 2:45 hrs from the border.  the address is 7777 - 62nd Ave NE, Seattle WA.  Click here for a map.

Hotels - There are not to many hotels in the area but they do exist.  Try the University Hotel in the university district close by.

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