When I was growing up in Newport there were very few boats and no sailing events in Newport. I had to travel to sail in big regattas and on big boats. The America’s Cup took place every 3 years, but nothing like it is today.
I am constantly in awe of what is happening in the sailing world today, in particular in Narragansett Bay. It is truly a treasure, one of the finest places anywhere in the world to sail. But growing up, all the activity was in Long Island Sound both for dinghys and big boats.
In 2011 the “big” event was the “J” class regatta. big and majestic. 160 tons and 130 feet long. In sharp contrast in 2012 was the america’s cup 45 catamarans, at a little over 3000 pounds and 45 feet long.
