Volvo Ocean Race 2006 (lots of pics)

[JustinVGT]

Not sure if many of you have heard about the Volvo Ocean Race (http://www.volvooceanrace.org/), but it's an around the world sailing race. These 70 foot racing sailboats cruise up to 40 knots! That is very fast, in the 45-50 mph range! They have been in Baltimore and Annapolis the past couple weeks and just restarted the race yesterday. Yesterday was also my 24th birthday so it made for an awesome day to be able to sail out to the race and see it in person. It was the first time I had taken out my parents and brothers on my boat and we were able to see the race up close and I mean very up close! The race started at 1pm near Thomas Point light house, headed north to the bay bridge, then made a u- turn south to exit the bay. We were running behind getting out to the water, so I was worried we wouldn't make it in time. So, instead of joining the hundreds of boats up in the designated spectator zone, I decided to head south of it and hope to be nearby when the sailed south. What perfect timing I made. I sailed/motored to the western side of the bay. Not long after, the race and hundreds of spectators were coming down right near us. I thought I went to far west, but nope, they were coming right by and down on us. There was a lot of chop which made quite a rough and sometimes thrilling ride.Making our way through all the boat traffic was also a little hectic, but we had a great time. Here is a sample of my photos:Disney's Pirate's of the Caribbean ship!This is shows me at the helm, my older brother, his friend, and my parents. It doesn't show my three younger brothers out on the deck. Yeah, I had a boat load of people today.You can find more pictures at my VOR 2006 Gallery http://justin4192.zoto.com/galleries/vor2006 Sailing, seeing the race, being with my family, and the great weather made for an excellent birthday! Anyone else into sailing or see/hear about this race?Later,

[rebbierae]

Wow Justin that looks AWESOME. I've always wanted to learn to sail, but living in South Dakota I just haven't had many chances to learn. Looks like the perfect way to spend a birthday.