Figawi Race

Figawi Race. The Figawi Race is a premier sailing regatta held annually on Memorial Day weekend, originating from Hyannis, Massachusetts to Nantucket, Massachusetts. Founded in 1972, it has grown into one of the largest and most celebrated offshore sailing events in the Northeastern United States, known for its competitive spirit and vibrant social scene. The event typically features hundreds of boats across multiple PHRF racing divisions, culminating in a weekend of festivities on Nantucket Island.

History

The race was conceived in 1972 by brothers Bob Horan and Joe Horan along with George "Chip" D. Norton, who, after their boat became lost in fog on a casual trip to Nantucket, whimsically named the event "Figawi" as a phonetic take on "Where the f**k are we?". The inaugural event featured only a handful of boats but quickly gained popularity within the New England sailing community. Over the decades, it evolved from a casual cruise into a formally organized competition under the auspices of the Figawi Charities, Inc., which now oversees the event. The race's growth mirrored the expansion of offshore sailing as a popular sport in the region, with its history intertwined with the social and maritime culture of Cape Cod and the Islands.

Event details

The modern Figawi Race weekend is a multi-day affair beginning with registration and a kickoff party in Hyannis Port. The principal race starts on Saturday morning from a line near Hyannis Harbor, crossing the often challenging waters of Nantucket Sound. Upon arrival in Nantucket Harbor, boats dock at various locations including the Nantucket Boat Basin. The weekend schedule includes the renowned "Figawi Ball" and other social gatherings at venues like the Nantucket Yacht Club and the White Elephant Hotel. A reverse race back to Hyannis is held on Monday, completing the weekend's competitive activities. Organization involves collaboration with the Coast Guard and local marine authorities to ensure safety for the large fleet.

Course and competition

The standard course covers approximately 25 nautical miles across Nantucket Sound, a body of water known for its variable conditions including fog, strong currents, and shifting winds. Boats are divided into numerous classes based on PHRF handicapping, with divisions for everything from high-performance J/Boats to classic Swans. The starting sequence is a spectacle, with classes starting at intervals off Hyannis Port. Competition is fierce, with tactics heavily dependent on navigating the sound's tidal currents and wind patterns near landmarks like Point Gammon and Great Point. The race committee, often involving officials from the Nantucket Yacht Club, manages the complex logistics of timing and scoring for the large, diverse fleet.

Notable incidents and records

The 1979 race was marked by a severe nor'easter that caused numerous dismastings and required multiple rescues by the Coast Guard. In 1987, the maxi yacht Nirvana set a notable elapsed time record that stood for years. The 2003 event saw controversy when several boats were protested for course deviations, leading to significant rule clarifications. More recently, the 2015 race was highlighted by the dramatic capsize and recovery of a J/105 in heavy air, with all crew safely rescued. These incidents underscore the unpredictable nature of sailing in Nantucket Sound and the event's demanding competitive standards.

Cultural impact

Beyond sailing, the Figawi Race has become a significant social and charitable institution in the region. The affiliated Figawi Charities, Inc. has raised millions of dollars for local causes on Cape Cod and Nantucket, including support for children's programs and healthcare organizations. The event is a major economic driver for both Hyannis and Nantucket during the holiday weekend, filling hotels and restaurants. It has been featured in publications like The Boston Globe and Sailing World, cementing its status as a iconic New England tradition. The race's unique blend of serious competition and festive atmosphere has made it a staple in the calendars of the Eastern Yacht Club set and recreational sailors alike. Category:Sailing regattas in the United States Category:Recurring events established in 1972 Category:Sport in Barnstable County, Massachusetts Category:Nantucket, Massachusetts Category:Memorial Day