Edgartown Yacht Club's 'Round-the-Island Race: Back to July, Back to Form
by Barby MacGowan 8 May 07:52 PDT
July 25, 2026
Round-the-Island Race course © Barby MacGowan
When Edgartown Yacht Club's 'Round-the-Island Race ('RTI) returns to its traditional time slot in 2026 (July 25), it will provide racers with a steadier breeze that requires sharper execution and a more decisive test of sailing skill around Martha's Vineyard.
"This will be my eighth 'RTI," said Peter Holmes (South Dartmouth, Mass.), skipper of Calusa. "I've also done three other round-the-island races, including around the Isle of Wight on England's south coast. Both are iconic 50-plus-mile circumnavigations with picturesque views, dramatic cliffs, and strong tidal gates...experiences not to be forgotten."
At 52 nautical miles, the 'RTI course is long enough to demand preparation and strategy, yet manageable enough that both racing and cruising boats typically finish by late afternoon or early evening. If tidal currents or lighter winds slow progress, the Race Committee may shorten the finish to just north of Menemsha, ensuring a rewarding day for all participants.
"The 'RTI has become a bit of a family tradition for us," said Christian Pizarro (Wilmington, Delaware), skipper of Spirit. "I sail with my sons and some high school and college friends. The broad range of challenges make it a demanding and special event. We are always looking forward to the day when we can have steady breeze, so we keep coming back."
Why July Matters
For teams targeting performance, here are some observations that may help enhance success when racing around Martha's Vineyard:
More reliable gradient breeze
July delivers a steadier southwest flow, reducing the lottery factor seen in early-season light-air races. More pressure means clearer lanes off the line, fewer parked-out stretches, and a truer test of boat speed.
Sharper transitions
The 'RTI course forces repeated mode changes as boats move between Vineyard Sound, Nantucket Sound, and the open Atlantic. In July, those transitions happen at speed, amplifying the payoff for disciplined sail changes, fast maneuvers, and accurate crossover calls.
Programs are dialed in
By midseason, boats are tuned, inventories sorted, and crews practiced. July racing minimizes early-season experimentation and maximizes execution—critical in a 52-mile race where small gains compound over time.
Closer racing, fewer excuses
With breeze, preparation, and daylight all in place, July strips away variables. Success comes down to strategy, teamwork, and minimizing mistakes - exactly what tacticians and race captains want in a benchmark event.
More Event Details
Racing divisions include PHRF Spinnaker, PHRF Non-Spinnaker, PHRF Doublehanded, and Multihull. The event's top prize, the historic Venona Trophy, has been awarded since the race's founding.
Service Academy sailing teams continue to receive free entry, and complimentary moorings are available for the first 50 paid entries.
Registration fees are:
- $500 through June 12
- $600 through July 3
- $700 through July 17
A full refund policy remains in effect through July 17.
For Notice of Race and registration information, visit www.RTIrace.org or contact Margaret Passafiume at or (508) 627-4364.