Sniping Encouraged

We're pleased to help out a good class like the Snipe (see their banner ad upper left column) and here is a preview for their upcoming Nationals. -Ed

The 2004 Snipe National Championship sponsored by Acorida and Carrabba's Italian Grill will be held August 16-20 at Mentor Harbor Yacht Club, Mentor Ohio here in the States. 60 teams are expected, including professional sailors as well as talented amateurs. They will be competing to win the title of Snipe US National Champion as well as attempting to qualify for the 2005 Snipe World Championships to be held in Japan.

Vying for this year's title is the 2003 Rolex Yachtsman of the year, Augie Diaz. Augie is a multi time winner of the SCIRA US Nationals Championships as well as the winner of the 2003 Snipe World Championship that was held in Landskrona, Sweden. Augie will have some stiff competition from the likes of the 2003 Snipe US National Champion Andrew Pimental who is looking to repeat as National Champion. Others of note are George Szabo from Quantum Sails who recently finished 2nd at the Star Class Olympic Trials and Chris Snow from North Sails who won the J-24 class National Championships in 2000 and 2001. In addition, perennial favorites Henry Filter, Peter Commette, Rob Hallawell and Eric Reinke will be fighting for the top spot.

Besides having to compete against a very strong fleet of sailors, each team will have to contend with a variety of wind and water conditions in order to win. Weather on Lake Erie in the summer is driven by frontal systems which means sailors can expect a variety of wind conditions, from light inland lake to windy open water sailing. The sailors that can change gears and do well in all conditions will have the edge.

To stay connected with the event visit their site where they plan on having the results posted as soon as possible after racing and articles written every day that will keep you informed.

The Snipe is a 15-1/2 foot, 2 person, one design racing dinghy with a rich history. Designed by William Crosby in 1931, it has evolved into a modern, tactical racing dinghy with fleets around the world. Although the Snipe Class has some of the best competition in the world, the class has not lost sight of the importance of social events and, in fact, many regattas are as well known for their parties as they are for their racing. The essence of the class is summed up by its motto: Serious Sailing, Serious Fun.®

08/11/04