Sponsored by the Old Point Comfort Yacht Club (OPCYC), the Round the Lights Race is the largest single race on the Southern Bay. The race is unique for its chase start in front of the OPCYC Clubhouse leading to an immediate skipper’s decision whether to turn east and head for the Middle Ground Light or to turn west and head for the Thimble Shoals light.
Racers have to round both lights and return to the finish line at OPCYC. A detailed understanding of local tides and wind patterns combined with sailing skill and good luck are all required for success. Boats and sailors from OPCYC, the Hampton YC, the Norfolk Naval SA, and the Broad Bay SA Club raced the nearly eighteen mile course on October 17 in not untypical fluky winds. 41 sailboats started and 29 finished.
Roundabout of the Hampton YC skippered by Alan Bomar, was the overall winner. Stardancer of HYC, skippered by John Blaise was overall second, eight seconds behind the winner. Halaha of OPCYC, skippered by Jeff Rogers was the fastest finisher from Fort Monroe, 8 ½ min behind the leaders. Complete results are posted on the OPCYC web site.
Photos included show a Roundabout crewmember “accepting” the Round the Lights Trophy Plank on which a plate will identify the victorious boat and skipper. On the left, steadying the Trophy Plank is Keith “Boomer” Barber, OPCYC Race Captain. Center right is Mark Wolfe OPCYC Rear Commodore for Racing making the presentation. Far right is Jeff Rogers, the “Godfather” of the Round the Lights Race series. The second photo shows participants discussing the race and enjoying the after race party at the OPCYC Clubhouse.
