Key West imminent

The US's popular season opener starts on Monday

Sailors from around the world are arriving in Key West and preparing to race in North America’s premiere annual international regatta - Key West 2010, presented by Nautica.

The cold snap that has gripped much of the country, and even dropped Key West temperatures into the low 40s, is past tense as temperatures rise with balmy conditions on tap for the weekend practice sessions and racing in the early part of the week. Key West's dependable breezes and warm waters will be welcome news for crews from over 14 countries and 20 states. The five days of intense competition begins on Monday, January 18th.

IRC, PHRF and one design boats will race in three divisions. Grand Prix headliners include the Farr 40 and Melges 32 fleets. The turnout for both classes is up from last year, with an impressive roster of Olympians, America’s Cup and World Champions in the mix. They will be joined on Division 1 by two IRC classes. IRC entrants range in size from 40 feet to Irvine Laidlaw’s Wally 82 foot Highland Fling XI.

There’s talent galore in the other seven classes as well. The Melges 24, J/105 and J/80 classes will do battle on Division 2. All three classes have Key West champions back to defend their coveted titles. They’ll see tough competition from veterans and newcomers alike.

New to race week this year is a multihull handicap class. They will start first on Division 3. There is plenty of optimism for growing this class of trimarans and catamarans in 2011.

Three PHRF classes will also race on Division 3. James Madden’s high performance J/125 Stark Raving Mad (Oyster Bay, NY) is the scratch boat in PHRF 1. PHRF 2 has nine boats from seven different states, Canada and Ireland, any one of which could end up on the podium at the end of the day. PHRF 3 has the smallest boats in fleet with local favorite Mark Milnes’ J/24 challenged by boats from the Great Lakes, New England and Canada.

International Team Competition has become an exciting tradition over the years and 2010 is no exception. There are nine strong teams with their eye on the coveted Nautica Watches trophy. Full Scratch Sheet

Premiere Racing is pleased to present this year’s Key West sponsors. The roster includes: Presenting Sponsor Nautica, with Nautica Watches the Official Timekeeper; and Day Sponsors Lewmar, Official Marine Hardware, Mount Gay® Rum, Official Rum, and Sperry Top-Sider, Official Footwear. The Supporting Sponsors are B&G, Official Marine Electronics, Marlow Ropes, Official Rope; and SLAM, Official Technical Gear.

Key West Race Week is also supported by The Florida Keys & Key West Tourism Council, which recognizes the importance of having a world-class, international regatta in Key West every year. The Historic Seaport at the Key West Bight is the Official Site.
The Ocean Key Resort and Spa is the Official Hotel. 34 Industry Partners bring their support through a program that is now in its 9th year. Learn more about the Industry Partners and the Program on the event web site.

"We are very grateful to our loyal race week sponsors and industry partners. They all present high quality products and exemplify the best in business practices and customer satisfaction,” said Craig. "We encourage all racing sailors to show their appreciation and patronize these outstanding companies that participate in our sport and provide vital support to events.