The 27^th running of the Harry Wood Regatta, sponsored by Balboa Yacht Club and Lido 14 Fleet 1, was held on March 9, 1996 in the main basin of Newport Harbor. With twenty one boats turning out to race in Grand Master (skippers 50+ years old), A, and B divisions, this years running more than doubled 1995’s attendance.

The ‘Wood is very unique in Lido sailing because it is the only Lido regatta in Southern California (and quite possibly the entire U.S.) that celebrates the Grand Master sailor, of which the Lido fleet has many. In keeping with The modern lifestyle, the two day format was reduced to one, all courses were set windward/leeward, and five races were run with just a short break after the second race.

Though mother nature was generous in providing clear skies and warm temperatures, a distinct lack of wind in the early afternoon made for interesting, but not too trying, racing. Despite several races turning into drifters, all five scheduled races were held. Of course, no sooner had the last race finished that the wind picked up to near ideal conditions. Sail La Vie, N’est Pas?

Perpetual trophies were awarded to the first in class of the Grand Masters and A Fleets while the top three boats (skipper and crew) in each fleet received hand lettered Lido 14 mugs.

Overall, the format proved to be a complete success, with many sailors expressing thanks for the refreshing changes. The results belie the fact that there were many changes in positions amongst the competitors from one leg of a race to another, leaving many positions uncertain right up to the last windward leg to the finish line.