By: Daph & Barry Marshall, Race Committee Volunteers
Would you like to spend time on the water with new friends on Tuesday afternoons? If so, join the race committee and enjoy the opportunity to get out on the Albemarle Sound.
After a brief training session, you’ll pack a bag lunch and head over to the Marina where you will board that day’s committee boat, among the largest and most fabulous power boats in the Marina. Normally, we leave the dock around 11:30 a.m., head out to the Sound, and drop anchor.
The PRO (Principal Race Officer) then sets the racecourse for the day, working with the Mark Boat Skipper who places the marker buoys. We watch as the day’s racers approach, recording boat names and crew members who will be racing. Committee members signal the start of the race by raising and lowering the appropriate flags. Watching the sail boats maneuver to get to the race line on time is a real treat!
After the start you can relax, enjoy your lunch and the beautiful Sound, all the while keeping an eye on the sail boats. As the boats complete the course, we check them in as they race across the finishing line.
Once back at the marina, all are welcome for a beverage, snacks, and chats at the Osprey Yacht Club Center. It’s a wonderful way to pass the day with friends surrounded by natural beauty, and to experience the sheer joy and excitement of being out on the water.
If you would like to share this wonderful experience with us, please contact Larry Cohen, the Facey Cup Race Coordinator, at boochnorth@gmail.com. Training will be given for all persons interested, including those with aspirations to become a PRO!