By Fleet 22 Lake Erie, Rob Mock | Published on June 28, 2024
And that’s a wrap. The 43rd annual Cleveland Race Week concluded with two weekends and six exhilarating days of sailing on Lake Erie, right in front of the Edgewater Yacht Club.
The first weekend presented light and challenging conditions. Despite this, the talented and experienced race committee managed to conduct three races on Saturday and two on Sunday before the winds died down. The podium finishers for the first weekend were: 3rd place – Unbridled (Robert Mock), 2nd place – Kashmir (Hickman & Kjoller), and 1st place – Arbitrade (Bruce Stone & Nicole Breault). Teams from St. Francis Yacht Club and North Cape Yacht Club in Michigan claimed the top two spots for the first weekend.
The second weekend saw the local teams regroup and shine over four days of racing. Trio (Uhlir Brothers and Tim Roberts) secured 3rd place, Unbridled (Robert Mock) moved up to 2nd place, and Arbitrade (Bruce Stone & Nicole Breault) maintained their dominance, finishing in 1st place once again.
Tuesday featured races for the women's and double-handed fleets. J 105 Class President Nicole Breault found a ride and contributed to Team Kashmir’s efforts. Notably, Laura Schaefer delivered an impressive performance, securing 3rd place in the women's sailing category. Her skill and determination were evident as she navigated the challenging conditions, making her a standout in the fleet.
The final day of racing brought 20-25 knots of breeze and 4–6 foot waves, creating conditions reminiscent of San Francisco's waters. This delightful challenge provided a fitting send-off for the winning team, ensuring they didn't miss their home waters too much.
"Racing at Cleveland Race Week is always a highlight of my sailing season. The race committee does an exceptional job, and the camaraderie among sailors is unparalleled," says Robert Mock, skipper of Unbridled.
Edgewater Yacht Club offers top-notch facilities, including spacious docks, well-maintained restrooms and showers, and a welcoming clubhouse with excellent dining options. Participants also enjoy access to repair services and well-stocked supply stores, ensuring their boats are in prime condition for the races.
Cleveland isn't just about sailing; it’s a vibrant city with plenty to offer. Sailors and their families can explore the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Cleveland Museum of Art, and the beautiful Cleveland Metroparks. The city also boasts a thriving food scene with numerous restaurants and bars to unwind after a day on the water.
Looking ahead, the next major event to bring your J 105s to Cleveland will be the 216 Regatta and the 28th J 105 North American Championships in September. Fleet 22 hopes to see you there! This is an excellent opportunity to experience the thrill of racing in Cleveland and to compete against some of the best sailors in the region.
With a combination of challenging races, excellent facilities, and the vibrant city of Cleveland to explore, Cleveland Race Week is a must for any avid sailor. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or looking to experience top-tier racing for the first time, we invite you to join us for an unforgettable event.