Marquette Selected To Host National Sailing Regatta

The Marquette Yacht Club and Ensign Fleet 35 of Marquette will serve as hosts for a nationwide event, the 2012 Ensign National Championship Regatta in Marquette’s Lower Harbor August 12-16, 2012. This is a validation of the strength of the U.P. club as past Championships have been held in Houston, Texas, San Diego, California and Newport, Rhode Island.

The Ensign is a one design class sailboat. The class rules stipulate an overall length of 22 feet 6 inches and minimum weight of 2,800 pounds. First built in 1962 and the largest one design full keel boat. This affords competitors the opportunity to sail against one another in identical boats, allowing the skill of the sailor to determine their place in competition. Ensigns are typically sailed by a 4 person crew.

Marquette’s Fleet 35 boasted one of the largest fleets with 20 Ensigns at the start line every Wednesday evening off the lower harbor break wall on beautiful Lake Superior. The Ensign National Championship, as well as Marquette, will be featured in advertisements in both region publications and nationwide sailing magazines.

“This is the first time Marquette has been granted the opportunity to host the Ensign National Championships. We know with the community’s support, this will be the first of many,” said Regatta Chairperson Neil Lynch.

Marquette began preparing the bid in March of 2011. “We sold the selection committee on the beauty and simplicity of Marquette and Lake Superior,” said Public Relations Chair Lori Frak, “Everything in the city is close, accessible and within walking distance which is different from previous host sites.”

“Racing will take place every day during the week and spectators

will have the option to watch from on the water or shore. There will

be many opportunities for the community to become involved and sponsor

events taking place all week.” stated Frak.

For more information, visit www.2012EnsignNationals.com or call Neil Lynch at 906-362-5555.