Last Thursday, Rear Commodore Ty Anderson provided a detailed preview of the upcoming 2025 Block Island Race Week, set to celebrate its 60th anniversary in June. Anderson opened the session with a highlight reel from the 2023 event, followed by a presentation designed to give newcomers a comprehensive overview of what to expect, including insights into cost, logistics, and the extensive planning required. The meeting’s full recording is available below and the slides are here:
A Legacy of Racing Excellence
Since 1965, Block Island Race Week has been a hallmark of American sailing, inspired by the famous Cowes Week in the UK. Taking place every other June, the five-day event is centered around competitive racing and the spirit of amateur sailing. With formats ranging from one-design fleets to windward-leeward races and navigator courses, the event accommodates a diverse array of boats, including everything from catamarans and family cruisers to high-performance TP52s. Anderson emphasized the focus on amateur participation, noting that professional sailors are limited to the ORC Open Class only.
Growing Interest for the 60th Anniversary
As of the meeting, 53 boats were already registered for 2025, with entries spanning from elite competitors like the 2024 ORC World Champions, Interlodge Racing, to a strong representation of one-design classes. This early enthusiasm is promising, with hopes to surpass last year's numbers of 175 entries overall.
Event Logistics and Planning Advice
For those considering participating, Anderson underscored the importance of early planning for key logistics, including housing, dockage, ferry reservations, and boat delivery to Block Island. He highlighted the vibrant social component of the week, which includes a sponsor village, island activities, and legendary parties.
Block Island Race Week Logistics and Participant Questions
The meeting also featured an open Q&A session. Topics included logistics for double-handed boats, performance ratings, and options for participants coming from Edgartown. Double-handed entries will have a reduced entry fee and will race on the navigator course, with registration arranged for those with late arrivals. Anderson confirmed that hull cleaning is prohibited in the harbor due to local ordinances.
Potential Feeder Race and Volunteer Opportunities
Commodore Ray Redniss mentioned that Stamford Yacht Club may organize a feeder race into Block Island Race Week, with details to be posted on the event’s official website. There was also a questions about race committee volunteering while volunteers do pull from the STC Membership and Anderson recommended reaching out for opportunities if interested.
For more information, participants are encouraged to visit the Block Island Race Week website as they prepare for this landmark 60th-anniversary event in 2025.
Watch the recording: