Home
By George Crook, Chairman
The 35th Regata del Sol al Sol was a success with 39 boats participating. It was the largest fleet ever racing from St. Petersburg to Isla Mujeres, Mexico. Boats came from San Francisco, California, Oklahoma, Texas, New Orleans and Maine. There were 222 sailors and 80 people attending by air at the Isla Mujeres festivities. This year was a special year for the Regata del Sol al Sol as a fire truck, ambulance and medical supplies were donated to the island of Isla Mujeres.
The weather was not kind to the sailors as storm cells, changing wind direction and numerous sail changes made it a hard race to sail. US Coast Guard and Mexican navy were on alert to assist boats in need. Mexican Navy gave fuel to two boats. All boats arrived on Isla Mujeres safely with no injuries and minor damage to sails and rigging. Rosebud crew said they experienced winds up to 60 mph and they reached boat speeds of 25 kts. At one point they had to reduce sails as they were worried about pulling out their winches.
ROSEBUD a Transpac 52 was first to finish on Tuesday at 00:22:04 with a corrected time of 3 days, 9 hours and 43 minutes. SARAH JANE a Lagoon 38 was first in the new Multi Hull class establishing a record of 3 days, 9 hours and 43 minutes. Other class winners were Spinnaker A – ACCUMULATOR, Spinnaker B – JACKAL, Non Spinnaker – Escapade, True Cruising A – MANGO LATITUDES and True Cruising B – YANKEE.
This was the first year for the communications at sea program. Boats reported in twice a day to a control boat in the fleet; the control boat then relayed the information to St. Pete and Isla Mujeres Regatta del Sol race headquarters. The information was entered into a computer program developed by Richard Weaver. Many people at home followed the race on the computer and families and friends were comfortable knowing where the boats were. The program was also used to estimate arrival times of boats.
On Wednesday Commodore Jose de Jesus Lima, Club Yates de Isla Mujeres, Co- founder of the Regata del Sol al Sol had the traditional SKIPPERS CUP at his home Casa de la Rocas honoring Skippers, Navigators, Commodores and Officials. The annual Basketball game was played on courts located in the City Square. The Sailors played a respectful game but lost to the famous Isla Mujeres team. A reception was held at the City Hall on Thursday declaring Skippers, Commodores, Officials and Race Committee Chairman distinguished guests of the Island. Also on Thursday evening Mayor Paulino Adame gave a Gala for the sailors on the City Square with Mexican Dancers and music. Miss Regata del Sol al Sol was introduced by the Mayor. Everyone had a great time.
The Regata del Sol al Sol Awards banquet was held at the Botellon, Hotel Maria del Mar. The setting was eloquent with tables and stage on the beach.
On Saturday was the main event, the AMIGO REGATTA. Sixteen boats with Mexican children on board, raced a course between Isla Mujeres and Cancun. No rules; just a fun race. Some children brought along their parents to enjoy the fun. All boats had gifts for the children. The AMIGO awards were presented at the Botellon, Hotel Maria del Mar on Saturday evening.
The Amigos Regatta
For those members who have not experienced the Amigos Regatta, it is a major
event of the Regata del Sol al Sol. For 35 years the boats that sail the race
to Mexico load up their boats with Mexican children and race around the island
of Isla Mujeres. There are no rules, just fun for the kids. The Mayor of Isla
Mujeres, Paulino Adame, sailed in the race as a child. SPYC member Fred Deuel’s
Madonna. Fred has raced in the Amigos Regatta for many years.
Fire Truck and Ambulance
The fire truck and ambulance finally arrived on Isla Mujeres, loaded with equipment. Dwaine Booth, Asst. Director, Pinellas County EMS and Fire Administration trained the local firemen and EMS personnel how to use the vehicles and equipment.
Thanks to all the people who attended the “Florribean Gala” fundraiser held at SPYC. Gene Weatherup and his committee did a great job; the evening was enjoyed by all. A special Thank You goes to Barbara Sheen Todd, who made the donation of the fire truck and ambulance possible.
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
|||