Etchells West Coast Spring Series returns in 2024 with exciting lineup of regattas
by San Diego Yacht Club 10 Feb 14:15 PST
Etchells West Coast Spring Series © Mark Albertazzi
The Etchells West Coast Spring Series is back and better than ever for the 2024 season, promising a thrilling series of regattas. San Diego Yacht Club, in collaboration with the local Etchells Fleet 13, cordially invites sailors from near and far to participate in this prestigious sailing event on the challenging Coronado Roads course.
The Series comprises four regattas, one of which may be used as a throw-out in the final scoring of the Series.
The 2024 event dates are as follows:
The action-packed Etchells West Coast Spring Series commences with the Bill Bennett Cup in March and followed by the Midwinters West regatta in early April. The Midwinters West is the sole three-day regatta in the Series and must be included in each entrant's total Series score.The Series continues with the Pacific Coast Championship at the end of April and concludes with the Orca Bowl regatta in mid-May. One of the four other than the Midwinter's West may be used as a throw-out in the final Series scoring.
This format has produced many close results over the history of the event, and last year's runner-up, Bruce Nelson (and 2024 Fleet Captain), expects more close and exciting racing this year. "Last year's winner, Jim Cunningham, and his talented team set the bar very high last year so we are all working hard to match that level this year. This year promises to produce yet another exciting Series as Fleet 13 continues to improve while we are focused on hosting the Etchells Worlds in San Diego in 2026."
In 2023, the Etchells National Championship took place during the West Coast Spring Series in San Diego. The top three places went to Lifted skippered by Jim Cunningham, Happy Ending skippered by Chris Busch, and Capricorn skippered by Ethan Doyle, respectively. The top three places in the Corinthian division went to Ethan Doyle, Will LaDow, and David Janinis, respectively.
The 2023 West Coast Spring Series champion, Jim Cunningham, is returning to defend his title. "This past spring series was really fun and highly competitive with so many different teams sailing well and reaching the podium. In addition, the post-racing camaraderie, debriefs and events were excellent. We are very much looking forward to participating again in 2024 especially as we look forward to the San Diego Worlds in 2026."
Chris Busch, a fierce competitor, expressed his excitement for the upcoming Series, stating, "The Etchells West Coast Spring Series is a true test of skill and determination. I can't wait to get back on the water and give it my all. I'm looking forward to another thrilling showdown."
Sailors and guests are encouraged to join the Fleet for post-race debriefs and socials, fostering camaraderie and growth among participants. In 2023, Steve Hunt led priceless debriefs. Summer Green stated, "I've sailed Etchells in San Diego for 15 years and Saturday debriefs were the best I've ever attended." Our 2023 North American and Nationals Champions Jim Cunningham, Steve Hunt, Eric Shampain, Serena Vilage, and Coach Dave Ullman opened their playbooks and the debriefs were truly priceless. These debriefs will be recorded and distributed in 2024. Additionally, teams are welcome to engage in informal practice racing and lineups the day before each event.
To help sailors prepare for the Series, North Sails will host an Etchells tuning webinar in March specifically tailored for competing Etchells sailors.
Registration for each event closes on the Monday before the start date to avoid closed entries or late fees. For more information about the Etchells West Coast Spring Series, to view the Notice of Race (NOR), and to register, please visit www.westcoastspringseries.com.
Don't miss the opportunity to witness the best in sailing at the 2024 Etchells West Coast Spring Series - a thrilling showcase of skill, strategy, and sportsmanship.