News Summary
The 89th Flight of Newport regatta welcomed 40 boats to Newport Bay, showcasing sailors of all ages and skill levels. Competitors included the youngest skipper at 12 years old and the oldest at 92, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere. Lucas Tenrreiro claimed victory in the ILCA category, while Adam Deermount and his daughter Hayden triumphed in the Harbor 20 class. The event, a long-standing staple in the sailing calendar, highlights the tradition and legacy of competitive sailing in Newport.
Newport, CA – The 89th Flight of Newport regatta saw the participation of 40 boats circling the picturesque Newport Bay on Sunday afternoon. This popular sailing event, organized by the Commodores Club of the Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce and Balboa Yacht Club, continues a long-standing tradition that draws competitors from various locations, showcasing both youth and experience in the sport of sailing.
The regatta featured two main categories of sailboats: ILCA sailboats, previously known as Lasers, and Harbor 20 sailboats. Competitors included yacht clubs from as far away as Texas, highlighting the event’s appeal beyond the local community. Lawrence Jones, the commodore of the Chamber of Commerce and the chair of the event, noted that the atmosphere was vibrant, with all participants expressing enjoyment and success throughout the day.
Among the sailors was a diverse range of participants, including 12-year-old Tavin Beattie, who was the youngest skipper, and 92-year-old Dave Tingler, representing the oldest competitor. This inclusive aspect of the race allowed young sailors to mingle with seasoned veterans, fostering a community spirit that resonates deeply within the sailing culture.
In terms of results, Lucas Tenrreiro from the Austin Yacht Club in Texas emerged victorious in the ILCA class, claiming first place. Meanwhile, in the Harbor 20 category, the father-daughter duo of Adam Deermount and his 9-year-old daughter Hayden secured the win. Winning the race together was particularly special for Deermount, as it meant that his daughter’s name would now be etched on the trophy alongside other sailing champions.
Throughout the race, clear skies and favorable sailing conditions contributed to the overall success of the event. Steve Rados participated for the 47th time, achieving seventh place in the ILCA category, which exemplifies the ongoing dedication and passion many competitors have for the regatta.
The Flight of Newport has a rich history, initially dubbed the Flight of the Snowbirds, a name that referenced the wooden boats that once competed. In 1975, as wooden boats were phased out, the race rebranded to the Flight of the Lasers, in reference to the Laser sailboats that took their place. In 2020, the name transitioned to its current form, Flight of Newport, to encompass a wider variety of vessels, aligning with the event’s inclusive philosophy.
The renaming of the ILCA boats stems from trademark issues that arose, but the spirit of the race remains intact. Jones reiterated the event’s significance as a legacy within the nautical community, bringing together sailors of varying ages and skill levels. The legacy of the regatta not only promotes competitive sailing but also encourages lifelong friendships and mentorship among sailors. As the participants expressed interest in returning for next year’s 90th race, the enthusiasm for this storied regatta is evident, promising continuity of its celebrated tradition in Newport.
The event’s organizational success and its capacity to unite individuals from different backgrounds in a distinguished sailing atmosphere cements the Flight of Newport as a cherished staple in the local sailing calendar.
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Additional Resources
- Sail World: Team Racing Worlds at Newport RI – Day 1
- Wikipedia: Sailing
- What’s Up Newport: New York Yacht Club Annual Regatta
- Google Search: sailing regatta
- Newport Beach Indy: Regatta Results Show Local Sailors on Top
- Google Scholar: sailing competitions
- OC Register: Governor’s Cup Brings Top Young Sailors
- Encyclopedia Britannica: sailing regatta
- Press Telegram: Newport Harbor Skipper Takes Trophy
- Google News: sailing results
