CHARLESTON, S.C. – Sailors don’t need too much arm-twisting to get them to agree to a trip to Charleston, SC and they’re even more excited to contest the big event: Sperry Charleston Race Week 2019, set to unfold April 11-14. This year’s edition will be packed with Chesapeake talent with two dozen regional boats in the mix and still more Bay sailors crewing for others among the 264 entries.
Annapolis sailor Henry Filter has competed in Charleston Race Week more times than he can count in the past 15 years in his Melges 24 and J/70, both named Wild Child. His best finish was a third overall in the J/70 one-design class out of 85, and he’s garnished several top 10 finishes. For the 2019 event, his crew members are “all Corinthian crew and good friends of mine for many years: Alex Stout, Hal Gilreath, and Greg Anthony.” He says, “All have been racing sailboats for 40-plus years… Wow, that makes us sound old!”
What’s so great about racing in Charleston? “I love Charleston! It’s a short distance away, good bang for your buck in time and money, and great time of year coming out of winter. Sailing conditions are challenging and fun. And the social aspect is arguably one of the best.”
As for the notorious currents on the race course, Filter calls them “tricky at best; still have not entirely figured it out, let’s leave it at that.”
For this year’s regatta, the Annapolis skipper says, “I’m excited to revisit the venue and spend time with friends, both on and off the water. This regatta is a great way to kick off the summer sailing season!”
Read More at spinsheet.com
Photos of Sperry Charleston Race Week 2019, Set To Unfold April 11-14
