Signaling what is described
as "a fresh, new approach to Mexican racing," the Del Rey Yacht Club has
announced that in 2009 it will continue its traditional biennial race to
For the last three races
DRYC has featured both a racing division and a "Salsa" (i.e., cruising) division
but now will organize a "Salsa Regatta" incorporating separate classes for
serious spinnaker racers and non-spinnaker sailors.
Club spokesman Tom Redler
issued this statement:
"In reference to recent
comments about too many competitive Mexican races hosted by West Coast yacht
clubs, Del Rey Yacht Club, the host of the biennial February Race to Puerto
Vallarta Mexico since 1971, has, for the betterment of racing to Mexican west
coast ports, decided that in 2009 it will not compete with other sponsoring
yacht clubs for the diminishing pool of serious (often professional)
long-distance racers. Instead, DRYC will appeal to the skippers who still dream
of racing to Mexico but feel their boats have no chance against the new, all-out
racing machines, or who do not wish to spend big bucks to keep up with gung-ho
owners and their crews.
"Instead of their
traditional 1,125-mile “Race for The Record,” DRYC will put all their efforts
into staging a more relaxed four-legged
“Salsa Regatta” with a stopover and party at the end of each leg. The
spinnaker classes, using PHRF
"A unique proven scoring
system allows performance to be based on miles sailed, thus negating the
powering aspect and putting full emphasis on sailing. An early departure date in
January will provide those who wish to cruise generous time to explore the
beautiful tropical coves and harbors of the mainland and gulf areas of
Press officer
Marina del Rey
to Puerto Vallarta Race
310.835.2526