The Sid Clark race dates back to 1904 and may well be the oldest overnight race in the country. As in the past, the traditional 100 mile Sid Clark Ocean Race to Montauk Point will be offered in its customary format. There will also be a shorter course around Block Island that may be used if the weather dictates.
For those who wish to sail closer to home, we have the Phil Lenz Bay Race. This is an endurance race designed with the small-boat sailor in mind. We have 2 courses to choose from, the longer 39 mile race goes out around Beavertail and the shorter 29 mile race stays strictly in the Bay. Either one you choose will provide some great racing.
The common factor in these courses is that they run overnight. This sharpens crew skills in nighttime navigation and will hopefully give many people their first experience in running their boat at night. This in turn builds confidence for extended coastal and offshore cruising.
We invite you to seriously consider joining this race. Our more experienced crew members will be contributing articles that will be posted on this web site to give you pointers on safety, night-time running and night-time navigation. We have a dedicated VHF channel that is used at night for fleet communication. Moorings, showers and launch service will be available at Bristol Yacht Club for early arrivals. Our goal is to make this race a fun, safe and comfortable experience for all who participate.
The Phil Lenz Race did not run in 2011.
For questions regarding either race, contact the BYC Race Committee Chairperson, Kathi Lengel, 401.835.4736 or email the Kathi.
Overnight Race Articles
Five Secrets to Winning Races by Larry Gomes
Night Racing Tips by Larry Gomes
Overnight Race Links
Forecast for Chatham, MA to Watch Hill, RI and out 25 Miles
Wind and wave conditions at buzzard bay entrance
Local forecast for Bristol, RI
Local forecast for Newport, RI
Local forecast for Block Island, RI