Wednesday Night Races

The Wednesday Night Sailboat Races have been an institution on Clear Lake, TX since 1980.  The regatta features numerous classes of boats including dinghy, multi-hull, keel, and sport boats.  Clear Lake’s version of the "beer can race" has become a great way to tune up a crew’s teamwork or get involved in the sport for the first time.  Skippers are encouraged to invite new sailors along for a ride without worrying too much about the continuous scramble for the next upcoming maneuver. However, don't get lolled into thinking the races aren't competitive!  Some fleets include world champions who still race at the highest levels.

These races are also unique with turning marks set just yards away from the spectators on land. With the marks set so close, it is easy to watch the teamwork, sail changes, and listen to the exchanges between boats.  The course stretches across most of the lake, but the best seating can be found at Barge 295, which overlooks both the start and finish line. Spectators can watch the races most every week between April and October.

This is the first year that GBCA has hosted the event, and we have incorporated new changes to help ensure that the races will be held for years to come.  Like prior years, races will start promptly at 6:15 on Wednesdays.  We are also going back to a four race series followed by an off week in which we will hold the series awards party.  The entire schedule can be found in the club calendar.  

Class composition changes based on the number of participants, but we routinely have classes for the following - Portsmouth (board boats), PHRF Spinnaker Keelboats, Catalina 22, and PHRF Non-Spinnaker.  Got another one design fleet you would like to start? Let us know!  

Dues for racing are nominal for GBCA Senior members, and the fees are slightly higher for non-members.  See the Notice of Race for details.