“It was like a washing machine out there,” said Rich Reichelsdorfer crew on the 70’ sled Evolution, when asked about the final day of Chicago Yacht Club’s 2010 Verve Cup Offshore Regatta. “Very chaotic but fun.” This sentiment echoed as the docks filled with seasick crew returning from the final races and colorful spinnakers continue to luff as wet gear hangs out to dry.

“Yesterday’s cold front that caused lighter winds, blew through overnight and the winds picked up the lake to 15-20 knots and caused a 3-5 foot swell on the racecourses,” said Chris Bedford, meteorologist with Sailing Weather Service. “Fortunately the high pressure brought sunny skies and more seasonable temperatures for the final day of the regatta.”

Today were the final races to complete the three day series, where 149 boats competed on three windward leeward circles.  

“All three days were great we got medium wind, light wind, and today was heavy. It was perfect. You don’t get that too much in a 3-day regatta,” Reichelsdorfer added.   Evolution is currently the leader in the Great Lakes 70 section. .
 
“The regatta overall was fantastic. We were on Circle B, the Race Committee is known for being very good, today was no exception,” Mark Lewis main trimmer on Surface Tension. Surface Tension, a Nelson Marek 36 owned by Jeffrey Schaefer, leads PHRF 4.
 
Following today’s racing there will be an awards ceremony held at Chicago Yacht Club, where winners in each section will be awarded brag flags and prizes as well as the overall winners for the two trophies: The 8-Mile Buoy Trophy for the winner of yesterday’s Distance race and the overall Verve Cup trophy. The Verve Cup winner is determined by calculating the most competitive section in the race. 
 
We will bring you photos of the awards and the final results, so stay tuned. Chicago Yacht Club is proud to host this prestigious sailing event, and welcomes you to be a part of all of the action this weekend.  The race would not be possible without the support of Audi of America, SLAM, as well as Supporters and Suppliers Karma Yacht Sales, UK Halsey Sails, West Marine, Modelo Especial and Mount Gay Rum. For more of the Verve, see www.vervecup.com.