Tight at top of 2021 Snipe Westerns

Boston, MA (September 21, 2021) – The 2021 Snipe Western Hemisphere & Orient Championship began today in warm weather with two races held on Boston Harbor. Augie Diaz and Barbara Brotons (USA) hold the early lead with a 3-2 but the top four are separated by just three points.

The day began with 6-8 knots of breeze for the first race but with a general recall, the second attempt started with a U flag in which six teams were caught over with only one returning. As the race progressed, Arthur Blodgett and Gracie Howe (USA) led into the gate but miscalculated the finish line allowing the Chilean team to cross first – but they were OCS so Blodgett/ Howe became race winners followed by Taylor Scheuermann/ Charlie Bess (USA) and Diaz/ Brotons (USA) in third.

After some shifting and increasing breezes, the race course was adjusted and the second race began in 10 knots and an ebb tide. The current was pushing north/south across the race course and added to another set of six boats called OCS. Local Jim Bowers with Julia Marsh Rabin (USA) capitalized on their local knowledge to win the race.

“Ernesto Rodriguez (USA) should be in the lead, as he was in control of both races, but he got too far ahead in the last race and we were able to get on one side of him and jump him,” noted Diaz. “But the best move of the day was Jimmie Bowers who stayed right and got in the current to jump 10 boats.”

Nine races are planned for September 21-25, with tomorrow’s forecasts calling for warmer temperatures and lighter winds.

Race details – Entry list – Results

Day One Results (Top 10 of 27; 2 races)