Credit PhotoBoat.com

It has been exciting watching entries come in over the past several weeks. The very diverse fleet now boasts over 140 entries, and we know other shy boats are planning to enter soon.

Perhaps the biggest news from the organizers this month is that we recently amended the Notice of Race to add ORC classes in response to several requests from both existing and potential entries. Amendment No. 3 and the Amended Notice of Race are available through YachtScoring. Boats with either ORCi or ORC Club certificates are eligible for the ORC classes. This will be ORC's first appearance at Block Island Race Week and promises to provide sailors a new opportunity to see it used.

There are two other upcoming opportunities to help you prepare for race week. First up, on May 20, 2017, the Storm Trysail Foundation puts on its Safety at Sea Seminar at SUNY Maritime in the Bronx. Not only are there are valuable lessons to be learned and refreshed there, but you can also earn a certificate suitable for the new requirements for the 2018 Newport Bermuda Race.

Practice, practice, practice -- even in distance mode. Enter the Storm Trysail Club's annual Block Island Race, an 183 NM jaunt from Stamford, around Block Island and back in time for a party at Stamford Yacht Club and your neighbor's Memorial Day BBQ. The race starts off Stamford on the afternoon of May 26, 2017. Enter on YachtScoring.com.

Finally, as you make your plans for this June, don't forget to keep check out this website for local information, including a list of agencies with rental homes.

We look forward to seeing you on Block Island.

Sincerely,

AJ Evans
Chairman, Block Island Race Week 2017
Vice Commodore, The Storm Trysail Club