Second Annual Rhody Regatta to benefit RI Community Food Bank

All types of boats comprised the fleet of 37 entries sailing in the first-ever Rhody Regatta, which was combined with the IYAC Newport Cup in July. Teams raised more than $15,000 for the Rhode Island Community Food Bank © Stephen R Cloutier

All types of boats will be on the line for the second annual Rhody Regatta, hosted by the International Yacht and Athletic Club (IYAC) and benefiting the Rhode Island Community Food Bank.

The event takes place Saturday, June 1 and, as such, kicks off the 2024 sailing season on Narragansett Bay with one race, approximately 18 miles in length, around Jamestown (Conanicut Island).

"Launched last year, the Rhody Regatta fills a void in the first weekend of June left by the (discontinued) Leukemia Cup and provides sailors with a shakedown regatta for the summer sailing season," said Event Co-Chair Pat Kennedy, adding that last year 37 teams sailed in five classes. "It's something that's both fun and meaningful to be a part of, and the goal this year is to surpass the $15,000 we raised collectively last year. As sailors who are fortunate to participate in a sport that gives us so much, we hope to take this time to show gratitude and give back to the community."

Funds raised during the 2024 Rhody Regatta will be donated to the Rhode Island Community Food Bank, which acquires and distributes millions of pounds of food per year through its 143 member agencies, including food pantries, meal sites and shelters. The Food Bank currently serves a record 80,000 Rhode Islanders each month - higher than even during the height of Covid.

"We're so grateful to be named the beneficiary of the Second Annual Rhody Regatta fundraiser," said Food Bank CEO Andrew Schiff. "These funds come at a critical time of increased need, when too many of our neighbors are unable to afford adequate food. We're grateful to the members of this community coming together to help."

Team fundraising

After signing up here, skippers or their dedicated team liaisons can set up a page on an online fundraising site managed by the RI Community Food Bank. Simple step-by-step instructions make it easy to create a team portal that can then be shared with the team's network. (Online donations must be made here - and cannot be made through yachtscoring.com.)

Notice of Race available

The Rhody Regatta is open to all Cruising/Racing Yachts with or without a 2024 PHRF of Narragansett Bay Handicap. (See Notice of Race for stipulations.) The Fleet will be divided into handicap and one-design classes according to rating and other factors at the discretion of the IYAC Race Management. Prizes will be awarded to the best three boats on corrected time in each class, Best Overall corrected time, and the team raising the most funds for the RI Community Food Bank.