S3, Ep24 Our First Sailing Race!
June 9, 2025 · 14 min · 289 views · San Diego
What this video covers
Tim and Jess, owners of a 43-foot 1988 Irwin MK3 named Into the Mystic, entered their first regatta in San Diego Bay.3:13 To prepare for the race, the crew studied racing rules and consulted veteran sailors about the Vanderbilt Start, a strategy involving timed maneuvers near the start line to cross at full speed.3:47 During the start sequence, the crew misjudged their distance to the line and the buoy, causing the headsail to wrap around the forestay while the boat was head-to-wind.9:17 After clearing the fouled sail and crossing the line last, the crew focused on sail trim and course placement to regain speed.11:21 They navigated light wind conditions by adjusting their position relative to the shore and tidal currents.12:35 Despite the initial technical failure, the crew completed the race in two hours and twenty minutes.13:59 The experience highlighted the importance of practicing time-and-distance maneuvers before attempting a competitive start.
More from Sailing Into the Mystic
From Sailing Into the Mystic — see the channel’s boat, crew, and every analyzed video.
The Sailing Directory Newsletter
One email with the fleet's best finds — the moments, boats, and stories worth your watch time. Enter your own address to get your own copy.