This year, Fleet 443 will run its 25th Hobie Cat Regatta off the stretch of Wildwood beach between the Morey’s Amusement Piers, Aug. 15 and 16 as one of the East Coast’s last remaining ocean Hobie Cat Regattas.
Annually, about 60 to 100 boats of a range of Hobie classes sign up for the race that caps off the summer sailing season.
Their presence is known to vacationers who have photos taken next to the sleek-looking Hobies, whose eye-popping, neon-colored sails flail in the wind. Around mid-morning the sailboats are launched from the beach for races.
In addition to the beach launch area, the regatta holds a Saturday dinner with live entertainment for hungry racers and their families.
The Hobie class welcomes novice sailors and world-class sailors to every regatta. Fleet 443 holds a novice seminar on racing on the beach before the races begin. Those beginners who compete in a class of even-skilled sailors, have a fair chance at taking home a trophy.
The Wildwoods Classic Cup is one of the most anticipated regattas of the year and is a sanctioned regatta for all Hobie Classes including 20s, Tiger, 18s, 17s, 16As, 16Bs, 14s and Youth Class.
Entry fees are $60 for a single-handed boat, $70 for double-handled boat and $35 for youth class. There is no spectator fee.
Registration is open 6 – 8 p.m. Aug. 14 and boats are towed on to the beach after 6 p.m.
Saturday’s registration is open from 8 – 10 a.m. with races beginning at 11 a.m. on Saturday and at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, weather permitting.
For additional information, visit www.HobieFleet443.com, or call 609-923-1355.
For more information about The Wildwoods visit www.WildwoodsNJ.com, or call 609-729-9000.
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