Miami Winter Series a First for 49er and 49erFX Sailing

For the first time ever, we´ll have a completely organized winter series in North America in 2013 for 49er´s and FX´s. All the fun begins January 17^th and runs through February 10^th. The series will be based in the winter hub of sailing, beautiful Miami, FL, USA. Miami is a great city to visit and a wonderful venue to sail in during the cold winter months. Miami is known for its warm temperatures, sunny skies and moderate weather, which makes it an ideal winter base for international sailors.

The inaugural 49er Winter Series kicks off with the 49er North American Championships hosted by Coconut Grove Yacht Club. The ISAF Grade C1 event is from January 18^th to 20^th, on beautiful Biscayne Bay. As of January 7^th, boats are welcome to train out of the Miami Rowing Club, located on Key Biscayne, half way across the Rickenbacker Causeway. For the second year running, the NA´s will end with an exciting Theatre Style Final. The 2013 NA´s will be a great tune up before the 2^nd stop on the ISAF Sailing World Cup! Be sure to register by visiting: http://i470-49erna.sailspace.net/ .

The annual Miami Olympic Classes Regatta sees its 22^nd edition in 2013. The MOCR is the 2^nd stop on the ISAF Sailing World Cup and is the only Grade 1 event in North America for the 49er and FX classes. The event runs from January 27^th through February 2^nd and will be capped off with a Medal Race on the final day. This event always draws top teams from around the world and 2013 is sure not to disappoint! Be sure to register early at http://mocr.ussailing.org/ .

Finally, the first ever 49er Mid Winter Championship will be held for the 49er and FX classes. This is for the teams that want to stay in Miami and do some training. The Mid Winters is a small, low key coaches regatta with a cash prize. This event will also be sailed from Miami Rowing Club. Details can be found here: http://www.pitchpoleenterprises.com/49erna/racing/49erna-winter-series

Miami will be bringing the heat this year, that´s for sure! Be sure to attend for some great winter training!

Trevor Parekh, Canadian 49er Class Association President