I was recently invited to photograph the Wickford Regatta during two days in May, a one-design regatta hosted by Wickford Yacht Club out on Narragansett Bay. Competitors were divided into two circles, Alpha and Bravo, and I spent most of my time on the first day with the Alpha boats. These included Club 420s, International 420s, and the largest class, the Lasers!
Wickford Regatta was first held in 1972 and was one of the first Laser events in the world! It was a well attended event in the '70s as more classes were added, but the event went dormant before being revived in 2009. This is now an annual event, the season opener for many sailors, hosts 420s, Lasers, Vipers, 505s, and F-18 catamarans. J/70s were slated to be competing but with last minute pull-outs they will just have to wait until next year.
We lucked out with beautiful weather both days and decent breeze for the sailors. In typical New England fashion, it went from sunny and sweaty at the Town Beach (where competitors launched) to chilly and windy out on the water by the early afternoon.
Competitors can see results here: http://wickford.sailspace.net/
Photos are available for personal purchase over on my website in a dedicated Wickford Regatta 2013 Viewing Gallery. Enjoy!
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