A first for Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race - A near shore finish
by NOSA Communications 5 Feb 2019 22:38 NZDT
Newport to Ensenada 2015 © Tom Walker Photography
Another new for the 72nd Newport to Ensenada International Yacht Race; the finish line will be positioned just south of the Hotel Coral Marina breakwater, yet about a half-mile north of its position in recent years. One end will be a buoy, the other a raised platform on the breakwater, manned by the finish crew. The move will provide a more stable finish line thanks to the unwavering landside position and spectacular viewing from the Hotel Coral.
The finish line crew is responsible for recording each boat's official finish times; however, they'll use YB Tracking data as a backup. YB Trackers, introduced just last year, were very popular with racers. Pleased with the performance of the innovative safety equipment, along with positive feedback and the fun of sharing the race in real time with friends and family the Newport Ocean Sailing Association has decided to bring back the trackers every year for the foreseeable future.
"This is just another of several innovations and improvements we are implementing to this year's Newport to Ensenada race," said Commodore Daniel Hodge said. "YB Trackers add to boat safety and increase spectator involvement. It's a win-win. Shore viewing of the finish is another way to share the excitement of the race with all its participants and supporters, along with providing an excellent vantage point for the press."
The N2E event offers racers a choice of three courses, Newport to Ensenada (N2E), Newport to San Diego (N2SD), and Newport to Dana Point (N2DP). It offers classes for racers and cruisers, multihulls and ocean sailboats of every size and type for sailors who would like to join the action and race April 26 off the Balboa Pier.
See www.nosa.org for full details about the race; its history and official notice of race and online registration.