Showcasing the history and elegance of traditional wooden sailboats, the Classic Wooden Boat Rendezvous and Race September 26 and 27 will be held in Annapolis Harbor and shoreside near the National Sailing Hall of Fame. Approximately 30 boats are expected to participate in this annual event, which provides an informal opportunity to compete in a low-key race against similar vessels. In addition to the racing, the weekend will include opportunities to view the vessels, hear expert speakers, and see demonstrations related to classic sailboats. The public is encouraged to attend.
“We’re expecting more than two dozen boats, ranging in length from 10 to 65 feet,” says race organizer Paul Miller. “Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. the boats will be available for visiting at no charge, and at noon there will be a dinghy rowing race. In addition, from 1 to 4 p.m., several experts will be speaking about old boat models, such as Star, Wayfarer, and Cutts & Case. Joe Reid of Mast & Mallet Boatworks will demonstrate traditional caulking methods.
“The schooner Woodwind will be racing, as well as a new ‘old’ boat from Cutts & Case. In addition we’re expecting a few classic Moths, which were very high-tech in their day, and several Stars dating from the 1920s through the 1950s. Bull and Bear, the sandbaggers docked at the National Sailing Hall of Fame, will also participate.
“At 11 a.m. on Sunday, the pursuit-style race will begin off Triton Point at the U.S. Naval Academy. For spectators, the U.S. Naval Academy seawall will provide the best opportunity for viewing, since the start and finish lines are just off the point and the vessels must cross the start/finish line for each lap of the race,” concludes Miller.
Any boat under 65 feet in length whose hull is built from wood and whose design dates back before 1970 may participate. This includes newer wooden boats built to pre-1970 designs. Vessels designed after 1970 that wish to enter will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The National Sailing Hall of Fame and the Chesapeake Traditional Sailboat Association sponsor the event. Find the full schedule of events and learn more at nshof.org
