(Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, MA)- The Edgartown Yacht Club will be hosting the 82nd running of its signature ‘Round-the-Island (’RTI) race on Saturday, August 1st, 2020.
The Round Island, which began in 1938 and counts as one of America’s oldest distance races, tracks 56 nautical miles around Martha’s Vineyard.
“To ensure the health and safety of sailors and the entire Martha’s Vineyard community, we have been working diligently to comply with the State of Massachusetts guidelines regarding COVID-19,” said Race Co-Chair Alex Nugent.
“Because of the early-August scheduling of our event, we’ve had time to adapt our plans and prepare the competitors for what to expect. Despite necessary changes, registration numbers are robust, drawing teams from all over the East Coast who see Edgartown Race Weekend as the kick-off to the 2020 racing season.”
At this point in the planning, the Skippers’ Meeting and Awards will transpire digitally. Social events or gatherings at the clubhouse are currently on hold, and sailors are highly encouraged to stay on board their boats as much as possible. As of now, provisions have been made for free moorings for competitors.
Happily adapting to the pandemic guidelines are many J/Sailors. Answering the Siren's Song are sixteen J/Crews, ranging from J/29s to J/160! All divisions have J's participating, such as IRC, ORRez, PHRF, and PHRF Doublehanded (which includes a J/121 and J/122E so far)!
If you haven't considered it, now's the time to hop on board, sign up, and go sailing with at least your immediate family or go doublehanded! It has to be one of the most fun, challenging (because of the currents), and most beautiful races in New England as you enjoy vistas of the island and its beaches. Sailing photo credits- Stephen Cloutier. For more information Edgartown YC Round Island Race sailing information