Great Vallejo Race Season Opener

Vallejo YC’s Martha Blanchfield reminds us that there are only 10 days until the 115th running of the annual Great Vallejo Race. Slated for April 26 and 27, the venerable GVR is, of course, the YRA season opener on the Bay, and its popularity has often ranked it as the largest inland regatta in the US in years past.

"It’s one of the best looking races," says Martha, "so bring your camera. In fact, if you’ve got photos from over the years, share them in the GVR photo contest. Upload an image by April 20 and earn a raffle ticket. VYC continues to add prizes to the winner’s goodie bag — a Mount Gay duffel bag, Harken wallet from Whitecaps Marine Outfitters, Summer Sailstice burgee, GVR t-shirt, $15 dinner tokens and more.

"Racers and guests are invited to watch the harbor antics, then join the party," she adds. "The band is the Raymond Victor Band. Food vendors include Nellie’s Oysters, Napoli’s Pizza and Big Jim’s Barbecue."

While we’re on the subject of the GVR — whose entry list once topped 700 entries — here’s a fun fact from the archives concerning the May, 1969 GVR: “There never has been a more exciting YRA race. Gusts up to 50 mph turned back all but the hardiest sailors. We still had approximately 400 finishers not including one 33-foot boat that sank 50 yards from the finish line."

"Even though winds clocked 50 mph back then," says Martha, "we’re thinking something less that 49 mph will prevail this year!" For complete race info, look here.