99th Conanicut Island Around the Island Race Registration Opens
by Conanicut Yacht Club Around the Island Race 30 May 10:55 PDT
September 5, 2025
98th Conanicut Island Around the Island Race © Stephen R Cloutier
Registration is now open for the 99th running of the Conanicut Yacht Club Around the Island Race, set for Labor Day weekend 2026. As one of Narragansett Bay's most beloved sailing traditions approaches its centennial, sailors are invited to be part of a special chapter in the event's storied history on Sunday, September 6th.
"This race has become part of the fabric of Labor Day weekend in Rhode Island," said Race Chair Peter Schott. "For nearly 100 years, sailors have gathered in Jamestown to test themselves around Conanicut Island, enjoy a day on Narragansett Bay, and celebrate the end of summer with friends and family. The 99th edition is an opportunity to be part of that legacy as we build toward an historic centennial."
The 18.1-nautical-mile course takes competitors on a complete circumnavigation of Conanicut Island, offering a scenic and tactical challenge that showcases many of Narragansett Bay's most iconic landmarks, including the Jamestown Bridge, Dutch Island, and Beavertail Light.
The race continues to attract one of the largest and most diverse fleets in New England. Last year's event drew 86 boats, representing nearly a quarter of all active PHRF certificates in Narragansett Bay. Competitors ranged from high-performance racing yachts to family crews, making the event one of the region's most inclusive and competitive regattas.
The 2025 race demonstrated exactly why the event has endured for generations. Sailors encountered a little bit of everything, from a northwesterly beat up the East Passage to a dramatic mid-race transition as a southeasterly sea breeze filled across the bay. Spinnakers dotted the horizon around Conanicut Island, while spectators lined Beavertail and the shoreline to watch the fleet make its way around the course.
Following racing, competitors and guests will once again gather on the lawn at Conanicut Yacht Club for the traditional awards ceremony and cookout, a fitting conclusion to Rhode Island's unofficial sailing season.
As preparations begin for the race's 100th anniversary in 2027, organizers encourage sailors old and new to join the fleet in 2026 and help continue a tradition that has connected generations of Narragansett Bay sailors.
For registration and event information, visit www.yachtscoring.com/emenu/50847