(Hampton, VA)- With eight-nine boats participating, the Southern Bay
Race Week has undoubtedly enjoyed a more prosperous participation level
than it has seen in recent year. Taking place from May 30th to June 1st
in Hampton, VA there is a happy coincidence that taking place on the
harbor as well is the “Blackbeard Pirate Festival” and the “Hampton
Block Party” hosted by the City of Hampton!
In other words, with visitors from all over the country enjoying the
sights and sounds of 18th century Hampton overrun by “pirates” (and
pirate-wannabe’s), Hampton’s waterfront gets a bit wild and crazy. The
waterfront comes alive with dozens of pirate re-enactors, costumed in
historically accurate garb, who transform today’s Hampton into the busy
seaport of yesterday. Led by “Blackbeard the Pirate” himself,
re-enactors help visitors step back in time and re-live the history and
legends of 1718 Hampton. The Festival offers a variety of children’s
activities, live musical entertainment, fireworks, period vendors, arts
and crafts, and much more! Learn more here- www.blackbeardfestival.com
So, were we talking about sailing? Yes, “avast’ye’matey’s”, the J/70s
are making a huge debut in this year’s event. Perhaps the reason why
participation has massively increased? Nine J/70s are sailing with
several top traveling teams in the mix. Top of the box (e.g. the
podium) candidate has to be Blake & Lud Kimbrough’s NOSTALGIA and
giving them a run for the money are experienced 70 veterans like the
VORTEX Racing Team’s two boats, GETMYBOAT.COM and VORTEX. Noel
Clinard’s LOONATICTU and Clark Dennison’s CAT’S PAJAMAS will be sure to
give them all a battle over the weekend. For more Southern Bay Race Week sailing information
