I am registering Willin' for the "Jaws" Pursuit race at the Sausalito Yacht Club this weekend - Saturday.  It should be a very fun race.

This an opportunity for those of you who have taken a sailing course, done a little sailing and now would like to learn more about racing with the local yacht club "beercan" regattas (starting sequence, determining course, strategy, tactics (tides / currents), etc.).

We are not a real serious "race" boat.  We value a SAFE, comfortable day out on the bay with enjoyable company over a first place finish, but we have finished in the top spots previously.

The pursuit aspect of the race makes it extremely fun and makes for a very exciting finish.

The gun is at noon - we will be one of the first starts.  I could possibly pick up crew at the SYC dock before the race.  The weather is supposed to improve - sunny and warm. And there should be plenty of wind - the race is in the slot.

Therefore, this is not a sail for first-timers.  It could be challenging out there.

If you do not know the meaning of the words - bow, stern, forward, aft, starboard, port, sheet, halyard, main, jib, reef, tack, and jibe, this sail may not be for you.  Although there are a couple of positions open as "rail meat".  However, as the name infers, this is a job for hearty souls - see pictures above and below.

I expect that we will be out for four or five hours.

We will experience many different wind and sea conditions and try all the points of sail.  You may participate in the sailing of the boat as much, or as little, as you desire.

Please bring a sweater and a jacket for when it cools off.  Bring foul weather gear and a PFD if you have them (I have some extras), and wear non-marking soled sailing shoes.

I have ginger ale and bottled water on board.  Please bring a snack and whatever beverage you prefer.  There will be no consumption of alcohol before, or during, the race.  And PFDs will be worn at all times.

Willin' is a big, modern, safe, well-equipped, well-maintained yacht with full electronics and instrumentation.  We will not be pushing her to her limits and we will enjoy a safe, comfortable sail.  I will control the RSVP and waiting lists to ensure that we have a good mix of newbie racers and experienced sailors.

There will be a one-hour orientation to get you familiar with the boat and safety procedures prior to our departure.

We have had some incredible outings in the past, so please check out some of the previous "Newbie" Meet ups:

http://www.gotwaw.com/photos/5402722/

http://www.gotwaw.com/photos/1237803/

http://www.gotwaw.com/photos/3641422/

OK, let's go sailing and have some fun.