2016 Race to Alaska Was an Exciting Event with Increased Numbers

r2aj Katy Stewart

July 12, 2016

R2AK grew from 35 entered teams in 2015 to 65 starting teams in this year’s event. Although not for everyone, this high test race across 750 miles with no power and 
no support, is growing steadily in popularity and we can’t wait to see what next year’s race brings.

The R2AK bills itself as being based on the hardest kind of simplicity:

– You, a boat, a starting gun.

– $10,000 if you finish first, a set of steak knives if you’re second.

– Cathartic elation if you can simply complete the course.

– Self-supported race: no supply drops, no safety net.

– Any boat without an engine can enter.

The race has two stages:

Stage 1: Proving Grounds

Port Townsend to Victoria BC (40 miles)
R2AK starts with an initial race across open water, two sets of shipping lanes, and an international border. The first stage is designed as a qualifier for the full race and as a stand-alone 40 mile sprint for people who just want to put their toe in.

Team Kraken

If you want to be a part of R2AK but don’t have the time or inclination for the full race- join for a full day of all out racing across some of the biggest water in the course. Racers continuing on will clear Canadian customs in Victoria.

Stage one winners get to bask in the glory for a full day and a half.

Stage 2: To the Bitter End

Victoria BC to Ketchikan (710 miles)

R2ak 2

Racers start in Victoria at high noon on Sunday, June 26th and continue until they reach Ketchikan or are tapped out by the sweep boat.

Other than two waypoints at Seymour Narrows and Bella Bella, there is no official course. To quote the bard: You can go your own way.

If that sounds like your brand of whiskey, sign on to attempt its second year.

Results of the 2016 race are in and the best way to follow what transpired is to visit the R2AK Facebook page here
Barring that, visit the event website for standings and all other details

 

Related Articles

  • The Big Picture: Foiling Hard

    The Big Picture: Foiling Hard

    Nov 29, 2023 Canada SailGP Team helmed by Phil Robertson lead Emirates Great Britain SailGP Team helmed by Ben Ainslie on Race Day 1 of the Spain Sail Grand Prix in Cadiz, Spain. October 14th, 2023. Photo: Felix Diemer for SailGP. Image supplied by SailGP. Canada has been mixing it up on the course lately… Read More…

  • Sail Nova Scotia Evening of Excellence and Fundraising

    Sail Nova Scotia Evening of Excellence and Fundraising

    Nov 29, 2023 Bill Haliburton was the high bidder of the first four Premium tickets for the ROCKWOOL Canada Sail Grand Prix Halifax. He is flanked by Canada SailGP Team sailors Jareese Finch (L) and Billy Gooderham (R) – both now call Halifax home. The Nova Scotia sailing and boating community from across the province gathered Friday evening (November… Read More…