MASSA 2017 Fall Team Race Championship

The St. Mary's College of Maryland Seahawks were proud to host the top 14 high schools in the MASSA Conference in their fleet of 18 Z420's and 18 FJ's. Northerly breezes and seasonable temperatures made for wonderful team race conditions allowing 66 of the 67 races to be completed before the drizzle set in. The 14 teams were able too complete the two seven team seeded rounds and then divide up into an 8 team Gold division and a 6 team Silver division. The Gold races were sailed in Z420's while the Silver teams were assigned colors in FJ's. The 15 umpires made up of mostly of current and former college sailors and led by Carol Robinson did an excellent job keeping the playing field level.

Sunday's conditions were not as favorable. Light breezes came mostly from the East, but were not consistent or strong enough to allow for completion of the Gold and Silver rounds. Silver racing was abandoned mid-morning, while Gold had to be abandoned mid-rotation at 12:30 in order to allow for an attempt at a Championship Final 4. Unfortunately, the breeze glassed off and no more racing could be conducted.

Huge thanks to all the volunteers from the umpires and to AYC for bringing two umpire boats. The competitors and coaches appreciated the Seahawk Sailors giving up their free weekend to run a quality event for HS Sailing.

Carol Robinson, Chief Umpire Bradley Adam (SMC Undergrad) Mallory Beuchler (AYC) Dane Byerly (SMC Undergrad) - Sat Chase Cooper (SMC Undergrad) Mackenzie Cooper (SMC Undergrad) Nick Gartner (Navy Undergrad) Bobby Lippincott (AYC)