Ronstan Bridge to Bridge drag race in San Francisco Preview

The 18ft skiffs take on windsurfers & kiteboarders in a the annual Ronstan Bridge to Bridge drag race between the Golden Gate Bridge and the Bay Bridge in San Francisco © Chris Ray / St. Francis Yacht Club

Incredible Speed – three different types of wind powered craft

The fifth annual Ronstan Bridge to Bridge race will take place at 5:30pm on Friday, September 5, 2003. The 6 nautical mile downwind race pits 18 Foot Skiffs, Formula Sailboards and Kite Boarders against each other to see who can make it from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Bay Bridge first. The 2002 winner, Chip Wasson of San Francisco, took just 19 minutes, 40 seconds to cover the course with his kite board. Top 18 Foot Skiff Teams will race side by side with the best of the best Formula Sailboarders & Kiters.

This year’s fleet includes World Champion Formula Sailboarders Kevin Pritchard and Micah Buzianis, both of Maui, HI. Buzianis finished the 2002 race in 21 minutes. Another top kiter joins the fray this year; he will be using water skis with his kite – a combination that has been successful to win the Gorge Blowout on the Columbia River. The 18 Foot Skiffs may have an edge this year in the flood (inbound) tide – the water will be pushing the boats towards the Bay Bridge. Current Top Ranked Skiff Sailor Howard Hamlin of Los Angeles with crew Mike Martin & Andy Zinn will be in the front of the fleet, along with the 4 time 18 Foot Skiff World Champion Trevor Barnabus and son Trevor Barnabus (Australia).

Racing can be viewed from along the waterfront from Fort Point to the Ferry Building. The speeds and skills of competitors put the record in jeopardy. San Franciscans are encouraged to watch the colorful parade! All competitors will leave from the beach at Crissy Field before the event.

For results, photos, and other information on the event, please contact the St. Francis Yacht Club Race Office: Anika Leerssen 415-563-6363 & check out the event web site at www.stfyc.com

About St. Francis Yacht Club: Founded in 1927, St. Francis Yacht Club, within view of the Golden Gate Bridge, is a year-round host of over 40 regattas on San Francisco Bay. The club was host to the 2000 U.S. Olympic Sailing Trials for the Soling and Star classes and is renown for its expertise in running world and national championships.