What is the Volvo Ocean Race?

As a new member of the sailing community, I am constantly amazed by the number of international races. When Sail-World first started carrying articles on the Volvo Ocean Race, I figured it was yet another small regatta. After a month+ of articles and coverage of the race, I have realized that I was very wrong.

So what is the Volvo Ocean Race? Held approximately every 3 years, it is a round-the-world sailing adventure following the trade routes of square-rigged 19th century commercial vessels. Scoring is based on each participating vessel's individual scores from port-to-port, just like it was advantageous to be the fastest commercial vessel. In recent competitions the race committee has added in sprint races at each stopping port.

Over the approximately 9 months of racing, the 6 competing vessels will travel over 39,000 nm and sail in some of the most dangerous waters on our planet. Conditions will range from 23 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The Southern Ocean can have 100 foot waves and 60 knot winds.

Each vessel is crewed by an 11-person team. The competition has become so competitive that each team strives to be as light as possible, eating freeze dried food during the competition and bringing only 1 change of clothes. This is a far cry from the first few races when cooks were brought along for the race and crews bunked in cabins.

Learn more about this incredible race on the Volvo Ocean Race website.

Still looking for the perfect gift for the adventurer in your life? Buy them a Chicago Sailing gift certificate!

Charts from Google Earth!

Sail-World has featured many great articles in the last few weeks. We're following the action in Perth and cheering on the American Olympic team candidates.

Recently we came across some great practical advice that we wanted to make sure everyone saw.

First, check out this great article on using Google Earth to create accurate charts for cruising. So simple, so easy, and such a valuable tool for any cruising sailor.

Our second pick is an extensive guide for bare boat cruising. There will be valuable information and reminders in this great read, even if this is your fifth year of bare boat chartering.

Finally, ten tips on managing your mainsail while short-handed. This is a great read for anyone sailing with inexperienced crew members. First and last on the list are reminders to reef early! We couldn't agree more!

Happy reading everyone and happy Monday!

Last Blast Regatta

Chicago Sailing would like to give a special thanks to everyone who participated in this year's Last Blast Regatta. It was a great sail and a lot of fun!

For anyone who was unable to attend, go take a look at some awesome shots taken during the race. Photos are posted on Chicago Sailing's Facebook.

We hope to see everyone at next year's Last Blast Regatta!

2011 Photo Contest

Votes are in and the winner of our 2011 Photo Contest has been selected.

Congratulations to Janet Gunn!

Thanks again to everyone who submitted photos and contributed their votes.

To all of our Sailors, come join us Sunday the 16th for a Club Sail. It is very possible that this could be our last Club Sail of the season, so you do not want to miss it! Meet us at B dock Sunday morning from 8:30am-11am.

Awesome Weather!

The warm weather has not left us yet! Chicago is experiencing an unusual weather pattern. Recently temperatures have been well above average. Typical October weather ranges in the mid 60 degrees, but this year Chicago temperatures are reaching nearly 80 degrees!

With this warm weather still here, keep in mind we do have available boats to rent. On October 15th, our larger auxiliary vessels will be departing Belmont Harbor for winter storage. However, we will still have J/22's and J/24's available to rent through the remainder of October.

Speaking of unusual weather, this winters weather predictions have been released. Meteorologists are calling for a cold winter with snowfalls well above average. The snowfall in Chicago is forecasting for 52", similar to last years winter patterns. Chicago is expected to go through the worst of this years stormy winter.

Prepare for a cold and snowy winter! Stay warm!!

Photo Contest 2011

Photo by last year's winner Roger Huang

It’s not too late, keep the photos coming! The Chicago Sailing annual photo contest is still taking place.

Have you captured any fabulous shots out on the water this season? Send us your best shots and enter to win a free rental. We’ll post our favorites for all to vote on.

Submit your photos by email to contactus@chicagosailing.com

Appropriate Foul Weather Gear

Chicago Sailing would like to give you tips on appropriate weather gear for the recent shift in weather patterns. The current September weather has developed below-normal temperatures that are much cooler than expected. Considering the temperatures are beginning to drop we want to make sure everyone keeps warm for the rest of our sailing season.

Keep covered! As many know, it can get much colder out on Lake Michigan and because of this we recommend to wear layers, layers, and more layers! It is much more effective to wear layers of clothing rather than one heavy item of clothing. This will prepare you for any sudden changes in the weather.

One of the most important things to keep warm are your hands! Between pulling the lines and rigging the boat, your hands do a great amount of work while sailing. Sailing gloves are the best way to keep your hands warm and comfortable.

Stay dry! The recent high winds can create larger waves in Lake Michigan. To avoid getting your clothing wet and becoming cold, we recommend wearing a waterproof jacket. Wearing a waterproof jacket as your outer layer will keep you dry and warm for the entire sail.

Let’s all keep warm and dry while making the end of this sailing season a great time!