The 1BI: BLOCK ISLAND RACE WEEK TIMES

Probably the most common answer to the question “What keeps you coming back to Block Island Race Week?” is “Sailing with my friends!”. Whether it’s bonds formed between sailors on the same crew, or new and old friendly rivalries between boats, the camaraderie amongst the fleet at BIRW is something that sets this regatta apart.

“Every single dock is just packed and packed with racers,” said Conor O’Neil of the J/80 Party Tree. “You come back on shore and you ask other boats ‘How was Blue Circle versus White Circle today?’” For him and his crew, one of the highlights of the regatta is stopping in for boat cocktails on the way to the tent party following the day’s racing. “Wall to wall fun with all the people you want to hang out with.”

One of BIRW’s most recognizable crews—thanks to their trademark tie-dye t-shirts—are aboard Sunshine Daydream, a Beneteau First 36.7 in the Performance Cruising division. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the crew’s first BIRW. “It’s a great opportunity to go on vacation and have 7 days of fun together, enjoying each other's company and doing something we all enjoy,” boat owner Chris Fesenmeyer said. He also noted that the camaraderie and good vibes includes residents and visitors on Block Island, who sailors meet at the bars and restaurants around town.

For one team in particular, the strong connections formed through sailing this regatta have deep emotional meaning. The crew aboard TnT are sailing the J/105 in its eighth BIRW in memory of the boat’s previous owner, Mark Masur, who passed away in 2023. “We purchased the boat and decided we had to come back to Block Island,” remarked Greg Turman of the TnT crew. “The people here are just awesome,” he added, complimenting the gregarious and helpful spirit on the docks.

Bill Kneller owner of the J/109 Vento Solare believes that the camaraderie that makes BIRW so special is not dulled by the fierce competition out on the water, even as the one-design class contests its East Coast Championship during the regatta. “The class always has a party at the house that Bob Schwartz from J/109 Nordlys rents where we all have a great time,” Kneller recalled. “One year, the owner of the house flew in with his helicopter and landed on the lawn to join the party!”

The spirits in the race village—anchored in friendship—were lifted even higher by the perennial favorite Regatta Craft Mixers Round The Island Race, which took place on Thursday. With heavier winds and cooler temperatures than earlier in the week, the distance race brought out spectators to the Island’s iconic bluffs, beaches, and lighthouses to catch a glimpse of the action.

Tomorrow, the 31st BIRW closes out with IHG Hotels and Resorts Race Day. There will be plenty to celebrate as awards are announced and another spectacular regatta is added to the history books.