2025 Rescue Regatta

The 3rd Annual Rescue Regatta brought together 30 boats for a day of racing and fundraising off Stingray Point, all in support of the Middlesex County Volunteer Rescue Squad. With sunny skies and steady 7-9 knot winds, conditions were ideal for the pursuit-style race that began at the mouth of the Piankatank River.

Unlike traditional handicap racing, pursuit races start with the slower-rated boats first and the faster-rated boats later. Finishing order reflects actual placement, eliminating the need for post-race time calculations.

I sailed aboard Battle Rhythm alongside Todd, April, David, Len, Dennis, Dwight, Case, Jen, and Heidi. We were among the last to start, with only one boat –Afterthought– beginning just behind us. Equipped with larger overlapping headsails, Afterthought overtook us early on the first leg.

That first upwind leg stretched more than four miles out into the Chesapeake Bay. As we settled into our pace, we began catching some of the early starters, rounding the first mark just behind a small group of boats.

The second leg-a continued upwind stretch up into the Rappahannock River-gave us a few more opportunities to gain ground. We picked off a handful of boats along the way and ultimately finished in 15th place.

With the race complete, we hoisted the spinnaker for a relaxed sail back around Stingray Point. Back on shore, the day wrapped up with pool time, followed by dinner, a silent auction, awards, and a party at the rescue squad – capping off a great day on the water for a worthy cause.

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