Racer Update: May 19, 2020

Posted May 19, 2020

Racers,

We would like to share a synopsis of the following important updates: 

• June 1 Entry Deadline: We have extended the June 1 Entry Deadline to June 30.
• June 15 Late Entry Deadline: We have extended the June 15 Late Entry Deadline to June 30. 

Please click here for the applicable NOR amendment #3 on the Official Notice Board and the exact procedures that will be in place moving forward.

The committee continues to monitor COVID-19 developments and how this is impacting our sailing community.  This remains a fluid situation.  We have contended all along that our ability to host the CYCRTM race this year will be  dependent on the alignment of three key items:

1. The ability to run a safe race with consideration of the safety, health and well-being of all of the participants and our volunteers.
2. The availability of equipment: the ability to have boats safely provisioned in time for the race in such a manner that we can inspect and check their compliance with CMSRs.
3. The proper clearance from governmental bodies: which include the States of Illinois and Michigan, the Cities of Chicago and Mackinac Island, and the USCG.

There remain many moving variables with each of the States of Illinois and Michigan approaching re-opening based on their respective governor’s plans. The Mayor of Chicago has implemented a separate plan to re-open the city. The City of Chicago and State of Illinois “Stay at Home Orders” remain in effect through May 30; the Chicago lakefront and harbors remain closed through May 30, and the State of Michigan’s “Stay at Home Order” remains in effect through May 28.  Mackinac Island is preparing to open for the season with island hotels scheduled to open late June.

We had previously communicated that we would make a Go/No-Go decision in late May.  While there has been progress in a number of the key items above, we now expect to make that decision by June 15.  We acknowledge that the timing of this decision may not work for some competitors and we appreciate your patience on this matter. 

We have been realistic in our planning, in the scenario where we are able to race, so you can expect that: : 

• social distancing protocols will be in place based on municipal requirements,
• no social activities will take place in conjunction with the race,
• the skipper’s meeting with weather briefing will be virtual, 
• no rafting of vessels will be allowed in the Chicago harbors or Mackinac Island, and
• there will be variable weather and sailing conditions with the possibility of flies.

While we remain in the doldrums waiting for our breeze to fill-in, if you haven’t already revalidated your vessel’s ORR rating certificate, consider starting the process with US Sailing to help alleviate any future bottleneck issues.  Note that competitors can provide US Sailing the information to start the request, but not necessarily submit payment for the certificate at this time.  We have been in communication with US Sailing and they are aware that many of you are waiting for the Go/No-Go decision regarding the race in order to proceed with revalidations.

We will be in touch with more updates as we have more information.  Stay safe and healthy.

Martin Sandoval

Race Chairman

CYCRTM