2019 Ed Sprague Regatta

November 16 - 17, 2019

DISTRICT: 5

HOST

San Diego Yacht Club     USA

EVENT INFORMATION

Twelve Star boat teams spent a beautiful “summer” weekend at SDYC November 16 & 17 for the last event of the 2019 District 5 calendar. This event honors former District 5 Secretary and longtime San Diego Star sailor Ed Sprague. The weekend was characterized by beautiful sunny weather and sufficient but tricky westerly breezes.

Three races were held day one in 4-10 knots of wind. Saturday was owned by the Madigan Family from Newport Harbor as Nick Madigan and David Wood won race one and Mike Madigan and Payson Infelise won races two and three. Results however were close, and five teams were within five points going into Sunday.

Saturday evening the fleet was hosted by the Sprague family at their beautiful home in Point Loma. A hearty Mexican dinner was served by Frieda Sprague (Ed’s widow) and fond memories of Ed, his mentorship of many of the sailor’s present, and especially his legendary parties were recalled.   

Sunday morning started under bright sun and 80 degree plus temps…and absolutely zero wind. After a long tow and a short postponement, the breeze materialized, and two races were held.  Locals George Szabo and crew Isao Toyama won the day, and the regatta, with a skillful 1-2 in the final two races. Rick Merriman and Rick Peters tied with Nick Madigan and David Wood for the series, winning the tie breaker for second place. Michael Madigan and Payson Infelise were fourth and Scott Mason and Charlie Welsh finished fifth for the series.

Special thanks go to Frieda Sprague and her family for a wonderful party. As usual Jeff Johnson and the SDYC Race Management staff did a great job organizing the event. Also, PRO Colleen Cooke and her team of volunteers did an excellent job managing several classes in challenging conditions.

Photo credits to Commodore Jerelyn Biehl and Joanne Odea.