MASSA News

The 2011 SAISA Great Oaks qualifier was hosted by the University of South Florida - St. Petersburg, on October 1. Fifteen high school teams from NC, SC, FL, and USVI registered for the event. One NO-SHOW resulted in a short delay, but thereafter racing commenced under beautiful autumn conditions - blue skies, cool(er) temps, and 6-10 knot post-frontal northerly breezes.

Racing inside Bayboro Harbor afforded parents, coaches, and spectators great views. Races were all modified windward-leewards, with offsets and gates, averaging 12 minutes long. Fourteen races were completed, no break-downs, no protests.

Congratulations to Tampa Jesuit on the win, followed closely by Shorecrest.

Ransom Everglades, Lincoln Park, Sarasota Military, and St Croix Country Day were 3rd through 6th, with the top 6 teams qualifying for the Great Oaks Regatta in New Orleans.

Many thanks to Tom and Karen Monkus for organizing the event, the USF sailing team and USFSP Waterfront staff for their assistance in running the races, and to all the teams and competitors whose participation made the regatta a success.