It is clear that Marion, Massachusetts and the surrounding towns breed excellent sailors. With a combination of top-notch programs and local seaside schools, Buzzards Bay draws skilled athletes from all over the south shore to participate in local programs. Organizations such as the United States Sailing Team return to the area each year to host competitions and teach sailing classes.
From a young age, children in the area are encouraged to embrace their sea legs and learn to be comfortable on the water. Seaside schools such as Tabor Academy and the Buzzards Sailing School make it possible for students to learn sailing and practice skills on a daily basis.
William Ricketson, Olympic communications manager for the U.S. Sailing Team, said,“For beginners and casual cruisers, Buzzards Bay can provide a lifetime of enjoyment.” He continued, “No matter which way the wind is blowing, you can sail to an engaging destination in almost any direction.”
However, sailing is not the only way to become educated about our beloved waters.
“The history of the United States is also reflected in these waters, as the great seaport of New Bedford provided unsurpassed wealth and trade to the new nation from Revolutionary times until well after the Civil War,” said Ricketson. “Sailors today still look for the same landmarks as those enterprising sea captains of 300 years ago, and in this way, Buzzards Bay connects us to our past in a profound, tangible way.”
Additionally, the Buzzards Bay Yacht Club has been known to host a variety of regattas for local sailors and visiting champions. Several annual competitions are held in the summer months, when Sippican Harbor is filled with young sailors learning the sport and seasoned professionals preparing for a busy season. In order to succeed in these competitive environments, it is important that athletes participate in frequent tournaments to enhance their skills. Luckily for us, Buzzards Bay is home to a handful of world-renowned sailing regattas.
“Buzzards Bay is in many ways the ultimate playground for the American sailor,” said Ricketson. “For the competitive racer, the bay’s unique geography allows the prevailing southwest breeze to strongly blow almost every day of the year, providing consistently exciting conditions.”
Local upcoming events for the U.S. Sailing Team include the 2014 Dick Fontaine Memorial Distance Race, the 2014 Buzzards Bay Regatta, the Beverly Junior Regatta, the Tower Race Night, and the Hurricane Cup Pursuit Race toward the end of the month.
“From the remote haven of Cuttyhunk, to the secluded beaches of the Elizabeth Islands, and to the tranquil harbors of Marion and Padanaram,” said Ricketson, about all that our beloved bay has to offer. “This is a patch of water like no other.”
By Jacqueline Hatch
