Twenty-seven teams from around the country gathered in Kemah, TX last weekend to contest the 2016 I420 Midwinter Championship, hosted by Texas Corinthian Yacht Club March 5-6.  This event was of certain import as it represented the final opportunity for US sailors to score points that qualify them for the 420 Worlds and Junior European Championships, both held later this summer, in Italy and Hungary respectively.

Saturday welcomed competitors with sunny skies, temperatures in the low 70s, and a nice easterly breeze between 8-10 knots.  The race committee was able to complete six 35-40 minute races with a steady breeze and alternating inner and outer trapezoids.  Lots of lead changes at the top, with five different teams winning races throughout the day.  Each race was dominated by a different strategy, and sailors were tested as they made the necessary changes in their methodology of thinking about the race course.

After racing on Saturday, parents and sailors were treated to a true Texas-style chili cookoff, with different TCYC members vying for the coveted best-chili award.  Different varieties featured brisket, duck, oysters, and even a vegetarian style!  Each was delicious, and a good time was had by all.

Sunday morning sailors reported to the club by 0730 to prepare for a 1000 first warning and were greeted by a building southerly breeze and even warmer temperatures in the mid 70s.  The RC fired off three races, with the O flag, which permits pumping, going up for the last two races of the day.   Wiley Rogers/Jack Parkin returned to form winning the final race of the event and securing the overall victory.  Sister team Payton and Victoria Thompson took home second and top girl, and brother team Alex and Marcus Abate finished third.

Full results can be found here and for a full gallery of event photos, please see the shared album here.