Radical idea: Racing

Editors Note

If you own a powerboat, this may be a crazy sounding idea, but this summer, let’s consider sailboat racing. What???? Rag bagging! But hear me out.

May 24, 2023

If you own a powerboat, this may be a crazy sounding idea, but this summer, let’s consider sailboat racing. What???? Rag bagging! But hear me out.

Sail racing is boating too. Moreover, there are skills to acquire that will stand you in good stead aboard your own boat. Like what?

Three skills that will prove very worthwhile no matter what sort of boat you navigate are compass watching, wind watching and weather watching. Accomplished power captains are well aware of wind when they head out onto open water and especially when they dock, yet powerboats rarely have wind instruments or even telltales. True enough, it hardly matters at 25 knots, but at the dock it’s critical. Wind and waves can be important. And weather – of course.

Compass directions and wind shifts are central to racing and the sailors on board develop ‘feel’ for both. The best racers can anticipate the direction and velocity of the wind before it happens. An eye on the weather makes the champions what they are. That can only be a benefit.

Is there a lift under that dark cumulus? Consider that.

This is not a comparison; it is a union. And you can bet you’ll be welcomed – your boat savvy may not seem appropriate, but anyone who knows boats is suitably agile, helpful with dock lines and knows a lot more that thy think about any boat. Enjoy your power cruising – you can go a lot faster and with a lot less fuss than your blow boating buddies. But on race night, why not go for a spin? I bet you’ll have some fun and perhaps pick up some morsels that might add to your boating experience. Plus, I guarantee someone will hand you a beverage at the end of the race.

 

Related Articles


Sea Ray Launches the New SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf

Sea Ray is expanding its next-generation SDX lineup with two new models. The dynamic SDX 250 and SDX 250 Surf blend quality, functionality and capability to provide limitless fun. Available in sterndrive and surf configurations, the vessels feature powerful propulsion, abundant storage, optimized seating and premium amenities to suit any aquatic activity. Whether entertaining or wakesurfing, the versatile SDX 250 is well-equipped with plenty of room for full days on the water with family and friends.

Read More


Destinations

Dockside Dining: Frind Winery

I’m a boater – I always take friends and visitors to Frind when we’re on the boat.

Frind Winery is the perfect place for boaters to go for lunch or dinner in the Kelowna area.  You can tie up on the dock or beach your pontoon on the spacious beach. 

Frind has an Italian style brick pizza oven for gourmet pizzas and a great selection of other menu items.  You can eat on the patio, at a picnic table, on the beach, or on the lawn. You can also get your order to go and enjoy your meal out on the lake. 

Read More