The 2014 version of the Double Damned downwind/upriver race is coming up this Saturday, August 9, and early forecasts look good for breeze. There has been some fleet interest in this race, and it is usually about perfect for the E27. I encourage any of you who are interested to start thinking about it for 2015 (or just c'mon up for this year's version).

I know it's a long way to come to Oregon for a one day race that may or may not happen. But for value added shopping, there is the Columbia Gorge One Design regatta (CGOD), a one design race in Cascade Locks which is usually scheduled in coordination with the Double D. It was held last weekend, and drew a fleet of 13 Moore 24s, including several from the Bay. It was a good 2 days of tight one design racing. I think a lot of the Moores will be hanging around for the Double D this weekend.

CGOD offers a one design start for any fleet of at least 5 boats. I contacted Dave Cannard, the president of the group that puts on CGOD, and he says they would love to have an E27 fleet join them next year. Some of you may have noticed that we now have 3 Expresses based in Hood River, so we are 60% of the way to our own start for next year. It would be great to have enough interest to get a start. Cascade Locks is a great venue for racing, with a wider river pool and generally lighter winds than Hood River (but not always. By way of example: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEscd0gRoZE). I crewed on a Moore last weekend, and the races were well run and highly competitive.

CGOD link is here: http://www.regattanetwork.com/event/8538

So something to maybe keep in mind for next year. I'm sure I can speak for the local boats and the HRYC in saying that we would be happy to help with logistics/storage/finding crew or what have you for anyone interested in coming.

In my experience the boats break down and travel almost as easily as a Moore. I know that some of the trailers are getting a bit long in the tooth, but I rebuilt a very tired Trail-Rite trailer not long ago, and although I went a bit overboard, getting it basically road worthy would not have been all that challenging or expensive.

If anyone has any interest, feel free to contact me. I told Dave Cannard I would stay in touch, and will post something up again next year as we get closer.

Cheers,

Bill Sumerfield #83 Moxie