USMCA NEWS

NEWS

SIMON STRAUSS LOOKS TO DEFEND MELGES TITLE ON POSTCARD DAY

CHARLESTON, SC (April 18, 2008) • With a light Southwesterly breeze likely to offer up challenging conditions on day 1 of 2008 Charleston Race Week, Melges 24 owner/driver Simon Strauss is hoping to defend his title as winner of the hotly-contested class during last year's event. “We've really gotten to know the harbor well,” said the New York-based owner of 'Yoga'. “We've now sailed here half a dozen times for Race Week and class events, and the mix of conditions and currents takes some getting used to.” Strauss has the benefit of Atlantic Coast Champion and top International Moth competitor Bora Gulari as his tactician. “We've also picked up some great local sailors for the crew, and hopefully they'll help us find the fastest way around the course,” added Strauss.

PICTURE PERFECT CONDITIONS LIKELY TODAY, GOOD BREEZE ALL WEEKEND
Friday's forecast shows light, shifty wind all morning, which should favor the locals with good knowledge of the conditions on both the inshore and offshore courses. By noon, the heating land should drive a typical southerly sea breeze onto all courses, equalizing the competition and providing fast rides for the racers en route to a likely three races for all classes on Friday. The afternoon breeze should also get all teams back to Patriot's Point with plenty of time to get ready for the day's festivities in the beautiful Race Village hosted by Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina. The parties include live music, the lowcountry's finest food, and everyone's favorite Gosling's Rum offerings.

ABOUT CHARLESTON RACE WEEK
Charleston Race Week is an event of the South Carolina Maritime Foundation and the Charleston Ocean Racing Association (CORA). Profits from the event support educational programs aboard the Spirit of South Carolina, a classic tall ship serving South Carolina’s youth. Charleston Race Week is sponsored by Raymarine, Gosling’s Rum, Charleston Harbor Resort & Marina, Vineyard Vines, Gill North America, West Marine, the Town of Mt. Pleasant, Charleston Boatworks, and Azalea Moving & Storage.

For up-to-the-minute race results, scratch sheets, entry list, and race instructions, check out www.charlestonraceweek.com.