Storm Trysail Club and Beverly Yacht Club unite the Salty 100 and Tower Race in Buzzards Bay
by Storm Trysail Club 10 Feb 06:07 PST
July 10-11, 2026
The Salty 100 returns on July 10-11 in an exciting new format, sailing alongside the 58th Parker Converse Tower Race in a new collaboration between Beverly Yacht Club (BYC) and the Storm Trysail Club (STC).
Designed like a half-marathon/full-marathon pairing, the two races are distinct but sailed together. Tower Race competitors will sail the traditional 48-mile course, while Salty 100 teams will complete the same course twice, adding a second lap for an extended offshore challenge.
The course highlights some of the most beloved sailing grounds in Buzzards Bay and Vineyard Sound — past Cuttyhunk to the Tower Light, across to Devil's Bridge off Martha's Vineyard, through Quick's Hole, and finishing off Centerboard Shoal. Crews may choose clockwise or counterclockwise routing and even reverse direction on the second lap, making this a true navigator's race where currents, wind shifts, and smart decision-making matter.
"This race was my first real glimpse into sailing beyond the dinghy racing," said Dan Cooney, who sailed his first Tower Race at age 14. "Buzzards Bay offers warm water, dependable breeze, and incredible scenery. Pairing the Tower Race with the Salty 100 — and partnering with Storm Trysail — allows us to build on that tradition and create something truly special."
For Salty 100 competitors, night sailing adds another layer of challenge, while multiple bailout points provide safety options for teams stretching into overnight racing for the first time. One of the goals of the format is to help crews build confidence for bigger offshore adventures.
"I've been fortunate to sail a number of Tower and Salty races, and these courses are as challenging as they are beautiful," said Ed Cesare, former Commodore of Storm Trysail Club. "They reward preparation and smart navigation. Speaking for Storm Trysail, we're proud to partner with BYC and help grow an event that offers both serious racing and an ideal stepping stone into longer offshore races."
For those involved in both organizations, the partnership reflects long-standing relationships and shared values.
"Storm Trysail, founded in 1938, has long led the way in ocean racing — from race management to competitive standards and advancing safety at sea," said Tom Bowler, a member of both clubs. "Beverly Yacht Club's racing history dates to its founding in 1872, with a deep legacy of sponsoring, hosting, and competing in major regional and national events, none more prominent than the Marion-Bermuda Race. Having been fortunate to be a member of both organizations, the value of this partnership was clear. Our shared interests and the bonds between our members paved the way for this collaboration hosting the Tower Race and Salty 100."
The Salty 100 has also been named an Official Feeder Race for the Marion-Bermuda Race, with some teams using it as a tune-up for the 50th Anniversary edition in 2027. A new combined trophy will recognize finishers of both the Salty 100 and the Marion-Bermuda Race.
Several boats have already signaled their intent to race, including KANGA, AUGUST WEST, HOT SPUR II, LEGACY, FROLIC, ESCAPADE II, BANSHEE, BALLYHOO, GLORY, RAPTOR, DEFIANT, CRAZY HORSE, RED SHIFT, and HARDTACK.
Notice of Race and Entry is open at www.yachtscoring.com/emenu/50659