(Halifax, Nova Scotia)- The Halifax-Saint-Pierre race 2012 is a world
class ocean race held every two years (opposite the Marblehead - Halifax
race) from Halifax, Nova Scotia to Saint-Pierre, France off of the
beautiful coastal Newfoundland. The Halifax-St Pierre Race attracts
yachts from Canada, United States and France, sailors enjoy the
challenge presented by sailing 350nm across the cold waters of the
North Atlantic Ocean, the Cabot Straits towards the French islands of
St.Pierre and Miquelon.
The
race continues to foster the close relationship between eastern Canada
and the French islands, and the great social and economic relations
between the two countries and maritime people everywhere. The race
brings together sailors from many historic maritime regions who sail
over a demanding course and end up at a destination extraordinaire -
St.Pierre et Miquelon. There the fleet gets to enjoy a "Touch of France"
and all the cultural, gastronomical and social delights that are part
of French hospitality. As the "chamber of commerce" description says,
“Saint-Pierre et Miquelon, is really a French Homeland 25km from
Newfoundland. The French flag flies high and the people speak with an
authentic French accent. The “Gendarmes” stand tall over De Gaulle’s
square with their signature “Kepi”. But “The rock” as named by the
islanders has a character all its own.” Looking forward to enjoying classic Gaelic hospitality at the end of their blast across part of the cool North Atlantic Ocean are the J/133 BELLA J sailed by Raymond Rhinelander in the IRC Class and the J/35 HARRIER skippered by Evan Petley-Jones in PHRF Class. At midweek, both boats on the tracker appeared to be winning their respective classes on handicap-time. Good luck and hope both crews continue to sail fast! For more Halifax to St Pierre sailing information
