WHAT: Ten of the world’s best female skippers - including three of the top 10 - and their crews will battle it out on the Chesapeake Bay at the BoatUS Santa Maria Cup May 27-30. On the day prior to the start - Tuesday, May 26 - journalists and TV crews are invited aboard for a chance to sail with the world’s best women match racers. This special media sailing afternoon will put you aboard a J-22 (22-foot) sailboat along with competitors to give you a chance to experience this great sport.
You will have unfettered access and opportunities to discuss the race and add personal elements to a story. Unlike many sports, the race combines professional athletes with amateurs who juggle careers, sailing and family life. They are the cream of the crop in competitive sailing. See www.SantaMariaCup.org.
WHEN: The press sailing day is Tuesday, May 26. Press rides will be available from 2pm-5pm. The race starts Wednesday, May 27 and runs through Saturday May 30. Live commentary on the race will be available on VHF radio channel 78.
HOW: The BoatUS Santa Maria Cup is held in match race format that pits boat against boat, one on one. Unlike sailing races where big budgets and expensive, high-tech boats give an advantage, match racers take to the course in identical sailboats. The winners are determined through skill, tactics and finesse, not money.
WHY: Claire Leroy (France) returns after a year’s absence to pursue this championship that has eluded her over the five years she has reigned as the world’s #1 ranked match racer. She will face stiff competition from the USA’s top racer, Elizabeth Baylis, Australia’s Katie Spithill and another US team led by Genny Tulloch, who has been blistering the competition in recent weeks.
WHO: The race is sponsored by BoatUS (Boat Owners Association of The United States) and hosted by the Eastport Yacht Club.
WHERE: Eastport Yacht Club, 317 First St., Eastport, MD. The race is sailed on the Severn River and Chesapeake Bay adjacent Annapolis, MD.