by Jackie Martin (Whirlaway)
On a Saturday afternoon nearly perfect for sailing, with the boating season emerging from its “Pause” a group of determined Masthead Cove members elected to enjoy themselves, while socially distancing in the fresh
air and Soring sunshine. It was a bit early to run a regatta, as most boats were not yet “splashed” and launches to those
that were in the water were not yet operating. But that did not squelch their dogged determination to have some fun.
The “Four Wheeled Regatta” was born! More than a dozen boats (cars) participated as the event kicked off at the Petco
parking lot. Captains and their crew were provided with a set of directions taking them around local streets and up into the
cliffs of “Ridgefield Highlands” in a series of port and starboard maneuvers with various clues and questions at numerous
waypoints. The winner would be the” boat” answering the most questions correctly without exceeding the allotted time
before crossing the finish line at the King Kullen parking lot in the shadow of Coneys Boatyard. (Real boats!)
Additional points would be given for the best turned out boat (car). Committee boat “Whirlaway” (aka white Jeep) with
Dan and Jackie Martin, stood ready to air horn each participant over the starting line. Complete with fenders and dock
line she was securely tethered to a tree at Petco. A staggered start method was used to prevent line barging and the regatta
(aka rally) began to the blasting sounds of some Jimmy Buffet tunes punctuated by air horn toots.
All cleared the start without penalty, not surprising was the sleek logoed appearance of “Nels’ Belle II “dressed in red with
a club burgee on her hood! (one bonus point awarded there- great job Shirley and JP} and the beautiful lines of ‘Luna,”
the Otto entry, a Porsche sporty model (what was their PHRF?) along with many other sports cars and sedans. All were
up to the challenge.
The Canvas -Non Spinnaker Division trophy was taken by a somewhat clunky and non -seaworthy walk off winner as
“Resolute,” a red pickup dominated the field with its reg number displayed along with burgees flying from her antenna (old
truck) and barbecue on the tailgate at the ready in case the crew was stranded by a break down. The radar dome would
surely assist the Harrisons in case the fog rolled in on West Shore Road. The exciting finish line was orchestrated by “Skippy” (Rick Puccinelli of “Liberty” in case you have not been Zooming with us for the past five weeks} logging in the finish times. Crews were elated to finish under the deadline, get out and stretch their legs, don their masks and say hello to fellow members
An after-race party was held via Zoom, the clues and answers were revealed and the “trophies” were awarded. Thank you
to JP, Brad Simon and Rick for all their help and support. Next time let’s try boats and water!
1st “Resolute” – Harrison
2nd” “ Optimistic”- Marrero
3rd “Exhale” Grand/Schacker tied with “Luna” Otto
Thanks to all for turning out!