Skookum III wins Schooner Cup

SAN DIEGO – Topsails, golly wobblers and flying jibs could be seen throughout San Diego Bay, March 29 during the 26th annual America’s Cup.

With 15 to 18 knot winds and smooth seas, 13 schooners young and old gathered at the starting line. For the next three hours, skippers, crew and spectators enjoyed the beautiful sight of rails in the water and bones in their teeth!

Perc Jones on Skookum III, took overall Cup honors, with a first place finish in the A class. Bob Harrison’s Curlew won “barn door” honors with a second place on corrected time, in the fastest race in memory. Mayan placed third– a fine finish for new owners Stacey and Beau Vrolyk in their first race.

Many were returnees. Jerry and Marcia Newton, owners of Maid of Kent (last year’s Class B winner) made it to the starting line just in time, for their 23rd run, after having the keel bolts replaced in the yard.

Gary Allen and Ed Fitzpatrick, both new skippers of Lively and Tiama respectively, competed in their first schooner race. In the spirit of Corinthian sailing, Jerry Newton of Maid of Kent lent Gary Allen a fisherman sail. Steve Denton and his crew of 13, aboard Amazing Grace, took first place in the B class followed by Scrimshaw, and Maid of Kent.

The event is sponsored by the Silver Gate Yacht Club with all proceeds going to the Navy/Marine Corps Relief Society.