The unpredictable waters of the Juan de Fuca Strait won't stop 麻豆社国产sailors from racing in the 67th annual Swiftsure International Yacht Race.
Three 麻豆社国产Yacht Club ships - the Red Heather, Mischief and Natural High - are among more than 200 vessels preparing to set sail from Victoria through the Juan de Fuca Strait to Neah Bay and back again on Saturday (May 29).
The two-day race often includes vessels and crew from as far away as New Zealand and Russia, although most competitors are from the Pacific Coast.
Nigel Praine, the main sheet trimmer for Red Heather, said the strait is often unpredictable, varying from listless winds to raging gales.
"Some of them are absolute raging gales and others times it's nicknamed drift-sure because there's no wind at all. So it's anything in between."
Although the wind might not put up much of a fight, Praine said the tides and currents surly would.
"They're insane."
After five years of experience sailing the Swiftsure race, Praine estimates the course will be rough this season.
Since many of the competing ships vary in size, different race categories reflect the capabilities of the yachts. Red Heather, a 40 foot vessel will compete in the Cape Flattery Race alongside another 麻豆社国产vessel named Mischief which earned a fourth place finish in last year's race.
Intense focus is the key to success according to Praine. He's not going to worry himself with strategy or paying attention to what other crews are doing. Instead Praine will focus on doing his job as trimmer as best as he can - he'll tighten or loosen the main sail to ensure maximum lift and forward motion.
A cannon will mark the start the staggered start of the Swiftsure race at 10 a.m. on Saturday (May 29) ensuring not all ships set sail at one time.
"Because that would be an insurance nightmare," Praine laughed.
All vessels should cross the finish line in Victoria by Sunday evening.
For up to date results on the race visit www.swiftsure.org.
