With newly thawed relations between the US and Cuba,the Conch Republic Cup (CRC) regatta sails again after a 13 year hiatus. With a warm invitation from Marina Hemingway in Havana, the CRC just completed the Key West Cuba Race Week. With just enough wind but an abundance of Cuban hospitality, or a successful cultural and sports exchange was achieved.
A one day weather delay began the 8th Conch Republic Cup. Weather experts and the CRC race committee gave every opportunity for the weather to break and withhold racing on schedule but the low pressure system built in the Gulf Stream,making a passage MORE than challenging. The delay was followed by a 5PM start on Friday, January 29th and a pleasant crossing in 12- 17 knots of Easterly breeze and a comfortable 6 foot swell.
That one day delay made for a tight schedule to earn racing back on track. After the early morning to mid-afternoon arrival at Marina Gaviota in Varadero Cuba on Saturday, and the crews were welcomed with an evening bash. A long slog to the starting area designated by our Cuban host yacht club,Club Nautico International Hemingway de La Havana gave recovery time to all before the race start in view of Varadero Beach. The day's racing was again followed by festivities at Marina Gaviota which included a large buffet and awards ceremony for races 1 & 2.
Full report and video... click here.
Source: sailingscuttlebutt.com