In the days leading up to the 2025 Hampton Annual One-Design Regatta, the wind forecast was not promising. After a boost in the projections Friday night raised hopes, Saturday morning the forecast fell. However, as we congregated for the skippers’ meeting, raised jibs started flapping and races were on!
The wind on Hampton flats was ideal, ranging 10-16mph both days. Current was light, wake delivered some waves to surf, and spray was refreshing! Conditions could not have been better and enabled nine races.
PRO Allen led a team of RC who set an impeccable course and kept things moving with rolling starts. We Albacores shared the course with Vipers and Hamptons, and it was a great weekend of sailing for all! The locals appeared to favor the left/shore-side of the race course, and Bob and Michael started and finished the regatta strong, and Dave and Mike executed strong strategies to find their lane in the pack. There was healthy competition between Greg and Delaney and myself and Lars across the event. Once I shook off the cobwebs of two off weekends, we alternated bullets and in one particular race were neck-and-neck until we crossed the line. Lars and Greg provided me live coaching, which I credit to Orange Crush ultimately coming out on top. Placements were a toss up until awards were announced though, and we all agreed it was a win all around!
We noted that the RC had an Albacore class flag, and it turns out there used to be an Albacore fleet at Hampton. Speaking with several current members, it’s clear the club wants to bolster one design racing – this weekend was successful towards this aim!
Lee hosted a cookout post-racing Saturday, and we also indulged on delicious fare from the Dockside Lounge and Commodore’s Dining Room. Parking and showers were convenient, and Hampton is an all-around great venue. Can’t wait for Worlds there in October!
Kaitlyn