Monday, March 25, 2013

Banderas Bay Regatta


Shindig raced in the Banderas Bay Regatta this year.  This race is highlighted as the only Cruiser race around, which means many skippers are "sailing their homes".  The event is generously hosted by the Vallarta Yacht Club and many local sponsors.  There were 64 boats in 8 divisions.  We sailed in the "Cruising boats over 47 feet" with 7 others, including several of our friends' sailboats.

The race committee did a great job organizing the regatta and even included a practice day for starts. Everyday was followed by get togethers at the Vallarta Yacht Club, music, drinks and theme based delicious dinners.  A great way to celebrate an afternoon of sailing in this beautiful Banderas Bay.

Our buddy Dan from Sausalito and a new friend Mark, that we met in Punta de Mita, crewed;  the four of us got Shindig around the course in fine style.

Over the three days of racing, we got second in our division (1st, 2nd, 2nd), missing 1st by only 16 seconds in the last race. Our main competition was a Dawn 48 Ketch that was brilliantly sailed by Craig Chamberlain and his crew.  We enjoyed meeting Craig, Julie and their crew at the awards dinner on the sandy beach jetty at Paradise Village resort the last night.

Shindig had been on a diet leading up to the regatta.  Our fuel tank is 1/4 full as is our water tank.
We pulled off non racing gear above deck like the BBQ, paddle board and fishing poles.  She was mean and lean, and despite her onboard keyboard, cases of essential wine and snacks, she performed like a champion.

I'm also happy to report that there were no near misses, nor anything broken. 

A great time was had by all; we are looking forward to next year and another podium finish!




Nancy and Rob - on the way out for the boat parade on day 1

Team RED looking for the starting area





Captain Rob of Shindig and Captain Rigo of Heavy Metal celebrating at the Vallarta Yacht Club.

Ace Crew of Shindig (Nancy, Mark, Dan)
Reaching leg on Day 1
Starting on Day 2

Last leg on Day 2

Last leg on Day 2


Shindig leads around the windward mark on Day 2



Downwind finish on Day 3

Downwind finish on Day 3

Rob and Nancy at the awards ceremony
Shindig crew at the awards dinner after three days of racing - Still Smiling
Starting on day 2

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